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Can You Convert Shimano SL-R400 Shifter To Friction

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Can You Convert Shimano SL-R400 Shifter To Friction

Old 09-19-22, 09:19 AM
  #1  
zandoval 
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Can You Convert Shimano SL-R400 Shifter To Friction

These look great and are affordably new. Anybody know of a way to convert these over to pure friction shifters to be used with non-indexed derailleurs and freewheels?


Shimano SL-R400 8-SPD Downtube Shifters

Not sure if this has been covered before...
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Old 09-19-22, 09:43 AM
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No, according to Shimano. SI-6CW0B-001-ENG.pdf (shimano.com) Look where it says "SIS Operation" on the lower right side. Looks like all but your model can convert to friction. Bummer.
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Old 09-19-22, 11:13 AM
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Maybe a bit OT, but the best inexpensive Shimano friction lever, in my experience, is/was the SL-L422.

They are spring loaded, with a micro ratchet ring, that can be removed if desired.

The stem model needed to be modded for downtube application, but the downtube model should just bolt on.

John
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Old 09-19-22, 01:14 PM
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Rivendell sells their "Silver" downtube shifters for $37 each and both front and rear are friction only. They are a modern take on the old Suntour "Power Ratchet" design and should work quite well.
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Old 09-20-22, 04:16 AM
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I have a set of 1056 dt levers that can be switched to friction mode. I do not have the mounting bolts for available for them. Pm me with interest.
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