On my mountain bike I have Shimano Altus gears and recently it's been really difficult to change gears. Switching to lower gears is no problem, it's switching going higher that is the problem. The gear shifter going higher has no resistance and it takes some wiggling and pressing it different ways for it to sometimes work. Any idea what the problem is and can I fix it myself at home or should I bring it in to get repaired? Thanks!
The old lubricant has gummed up. It needs a good cleaning and relubrication.
"STI shifters gum up after years of use. I've had good luck with this method and since it's nearly free it's probably worth a shot--
"Get a can of WD-40 or a similar light solvent/oil solution. Pull the brake lever back to the bar to partially expose the shifting mechanism and generously hose down the interior with your solvent. I mean really get it in there from all directions, using the little red spray tube if possible. Let it sit for a while and then drizzle in some light oil like Tri-Flo or similar. Then wipe down the exterior of the shifter with some Simple Green or other degreaser (to keep the overspray off your hands).
"I've rescued two sets of STI-type shifters with this method. Hope you get your problem solved one way or another, because new Dura-Ace sure ain't cheap."
source: http://www.bikeforums.net/archive/index.php/t-83743.html
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