How to Open a Shimano Deore LX Shifter

Shimano designed its Deore LX components for cross-country-style bicycles. The Deore LX shifter, located on the handlebar, allows you to shift gears by manipulating a pair of levers. The shifter can be disassembled, or opened, to replace or service the shifter cable, gear indicator or lever unit. The shifter cable connects the shifter to the shift mechanism, called the "derailleur," further along the bike. The gear indicator alerts you to the current gear choice. The lever unit consists of the pair of levers that are operated to change gears.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 mm hex key
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Phillips screwdriver
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Work the Deore LX shift lever until the shifter cable is given maximum slack. The bicycle has two shift levers, and either one can be disassembled. For the rear shift lever, shift into the highest gear for maximum cable slack. For the front shift lever, shift into the lowest gear. Gear selection is shown on the shifter indicator.

    • 2

      Locate the bolt anchoring the shifter cable to the derailleur. Originating at the shifter, the cable terminates at the derailleur bolt.

    • 3

      Loosen the bolt with a 5 mm Allen wrench. Grab the metal cap at the tip of the cable with needle-nose pliers, and separate the cap from the cable.

    • 4

      Remove the screw on the Deore LX shifter that covers the head of the shifter cable. The screw is located on the shifter and is directly opposite where the cable meets the shifter.

    • 5

      Push the shifter cable up through the Deore LX shifter, causing the cable head to emerge. Grab the cable head, and remove the cable from the shifter.

    • 6

      Use a Phillips screwdriver and remove the two set screws securing the gear indicator to the Deore LX shifter. Place the gear indicator aside.

    • 7

      Use a Phillips screwdriver and remove the three mounting screws on the underside of the lever unit from its bracket.