Originally Posted by
dsbrantjr
The new shift wire and housing give a possible clue.
Do you have the shift wire routed properly vs the clamp screw? Many Shimano derailleurs non-obviously require the wire to go OVER the little tab near the screw. If you go under the tab direct to the screw, it shortens the lever arm and makes the shifter throw greater than intended.
Wow, spot on. I'd have never figure that out by myself since the tab seems to actually have the entire opposite role, more so to hold the cable inside before it's rolled around the screw.
The lever now works soft and natural and I can see the derailleur shifting efortlessly.
Another thing now is that it doesnt shift from middle to first gear but I attribute that to the cable tension/limit screws, I'll run through everything again to make sure it's set properly.
Really appreciate all this anonymous help, thanks everyone !