The drawing illustrate the third model of front derailleur.
The second model is with a cable stop with only a hole for the cable
The first has also screws to retain 778 & 782
First time I read "both Universal and Balilla brake levers are somewhat notorious for being a little bit on the fragile side. So no, it's not a good idea to **** with them."
If it's true that with long use the rod on which the lever is turning can wear out, it's not a reason to throw the blame on these levers.