A Thought Regarding STI vs Ergopower Levers

I was thinking recently while overhauling and replacing a broken component in a Campagnolo 10 speed Ergolever that proportionally, I don't nearly see the same amount of shiftlever failures with Shimano Ultegra or Dura-Ace as I do with Campagnolo Chorus and Record.  I would say that 75% of the Campy levers that I worked on this season had broken spring carriers and or springs and the rest just needed cleaned, relubricated, and the typical replacement g-springs. 

My question is, did the engineers in Vicenza design these levers to be serviceable because they were aware of the durability/longevity of the internal components with a positive PR spin of being completely rebuildable? I don't know... Maybe the loyal masses don't mind tossing $65+ not including parts per lever to their mechanic every so often.  I'd be the first to say that that's a whole lot cheaper than having to replace the complete lever, but from my perspective, I'm seeing  the equivalent shift controls from Shimano lasting a great deal longer under the same conditions.  But hey... I'm not complaining, it's more work for me.

 

Comments

[RogueMechanic]

Hello Brad,
I would avoid putting it in your ultrasonic cleaner because of the exact reason you mentioned. Try spraying the internals as best as possible with PG2000 or similar penetrating lubricant. This has worked for me in the past if the internal components are gummed up. Obviously it's not going to do anything if a spring or ratchet has failed...I hope that this info helps. Thanks for writing! -John

[Brad]

Hi John,

I have searched and searched and have not been able to find any reliable advice on how to service STI levers. I know that they cannot be disassembled, I have 2 bikes with 7800 groupos, one of which I am about to tear down and rebuild. On this bike, I find that sometimes when shifting to a smaller rear cog, I have to press level several times before the ratchet engages.

Is there a way to clean and lubricate these things? I have an ultrasonic cleaner, but am leery about submerging it and possibly removing lubrication that I cannot replace.

Thanks in advance

[Matt]

Whoops, you've done it now John! Those Campag fan boys are forming an angry mob and lighting their torches again right now!