Originally Posted by
datlas
I suspect the Chorus setup does not have the same problem. This seems to be a problem with SHIMANO shifters.
I know the pic looks dirty but that's because I included the black plastic extension on the ferule/cap of the housing when I installed the cable, it was all gooey so for the replacement I got rid of that. I don't think it was a big player in the process, however. I am willing to consider other cables but have very low expectations.
see below for pics of housing ends:
I had used the lower type end initially but now using the upper one.
We know you're thrifty and all, but use the top end Dura Ace polymer coated cables. That coating does a lot to reduce friction and will have your cables lasting much longer. You could even spray some Teflon dry lube into that end of the cable housing a few times before assembling the shift cable to add a little dry lubrication to the inside of the housing. A wet lube won't function the same and will add drag to your shifting.