clutch cable lubrication

Jim Sims · 07-09-2003, 05:48 PM

Installing a new clutch cable in my son's '73 911T. We note that the old clutch cable is quite greasy (both ends) and that the new cable is dry of lubrication but slides easily in the plastic sheath. Should the new clutch cable be greased before installation? Thanks, Jim

Jim Sims · 07-09-2003, 07:51 PM

I have a hint that the answer to this question is in "101 Projects". Unfortunately, our single copy is in storage in Davis, California. Can someone look this up? Thanks, Jim

nostatic · nostatic's Garage

to quote from the book of Wayne:

"you don't need to lubricate the cable before you install it, but a little bit of white lithium grease can't hurt."

Jim Sims · 07-09-2003, 08:13 PM

Thanks! That's what we suspected as there appeared to be way too much grease on the old one to the point of impeding cable movement (excessive drag). Jim & Brad

Doug Zielke · 07-09-2003, 09:15 PM

Jim,
FWIW....
In the m/c biz, we tell the customers *not* to lube plastic-lined cables. The reason being, some lubes may break the plastic down over time, spoiling the action of the cable.

Sonic dB · Sonic dB's Garage

Hey...I am going to do this clutch cable change in the next few days. There seems to be a difference of opinion on this grease issue...

Whats the definitive answer?

Jdub · 07-10-2003, 05:13 AM

Do not grease the sheathed cables - it only attracts dirt particles.

The sheathing in some cables actually acts as a lubricant depending on what they mixed with the plastics.

John

BGCarrera32 · 07-10-2003, 05:47 AM

I would not add grease, some of those sheaths are teflon, and you can't get grease inside the whole cable anyway.