I ran into this recently with a late '70's Paramount. Replacing the nylon washer with the flats didn't help, so I finally put a drop of blue loktite (the removable type) on the threads and this solved the slipping problem. Unfortunately, this method also precludes further adjustment without breaking the loktite seal, but some old shift levers used slotted instead of thumb screws. If the lever is adjusted properly, it should not need constant tightening.
Steve Barner, Bolton, Vermont
----- Original Message ----- > Date: Sun, 11 Aug 2002 11:30:12 -0700
> From: "Jim Merz" <jimmerz@qwest.net>
> To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
> Subject: FW: [CR]Campy Downtube Levers Slipping
>
> I have seen this happen if the washer with the flats inside has
> rotational play on the shaft. If this has play it will loosen the lever
> a little bit each time you shift. This happened when frame builders use
> braze-ons from suppliers other than Campi.
>
> Jim Merz
> Bainbridge Is. WA
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: classicrendezvous-admin@bikelist.org
> [mailto:classicrendezvous-admin@bikelist.org] On Behalf Of Snyder, Bill
> Sent: Sunday, August 11, 2002 10:48 AM
> To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
> Subject: [CR]Campy Downtube Levers Slipping
>
> Probably a much-answered question, but here it is:
>
> Here is a mid-80s set of Super Record down-tube shift levers. Following
> previous instructions, I've gotten them as dry and clean as possible on
> the
> inside, and believe me I've tightened the right lever more than
> finger-tight--even used a small hex wrench to crank some more. But there
> is
> still slipping under pressure (standing up on uphills especially).
>
> Is there a trick to make these hold? Is this age and wear or...?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bill