$339 for Cables? How Can You Tell if They Need Replaced?

[skylarmav1]

Hey all- so from my previous post on my throttle being hard to twist, I took the group's advice and removed the bowden box and all 4 cables. Not fun, but not horrible either.

Next question, to replace all 4 cables and box is $339! While replacing the throttle cable makes sense, can I just take apart the bowden box and clean it? Is there an aftermarket solution? How do I know if the cables need replaced? The throttle was the only problem cable that spurred me to do this project.

Any help is appreciated.
Thanks all,
Skylarmav1

[Photoguy]

I don't know exactly how these work (in fact didn't even know it exists) but looking at the photos of it in the parts diagram it would seem simple enough to clean it out and or lube? Or at least see if there's some obvious damage. The box itself looks like it's about $50? and unless the cables are obviously damaged maybe it's worth trying them with a clean box?
https://shop.maxbmw.com/fiche/DiagramsM ... d=07242017

[skylarmav1]

Thx Photoguy-Appreciate your insight. I was thinking along same lines but don't want to have to do this again soon :-)

[swamper]

I've lubed the cables before and it made a hugh difference. Also be aware of the hand grip sticking/pinching on the bar end weight.

[skylarmav1]

Hey Swamper, I was told not to lube that they are teflon. Or do you mean just at the handle bar?

[swamper]

I was told the same thing. I did it anyway and it worked very good. I couldn't figure out why they say not to lube them so I did.

[skylarmav1]

Hmmm?

[Buckster]

The Teflon coating does not attract dirt, dust, or debris. Any lube will over time.

[towerworker]

Not sure if this would help or not but DuPont makes a product called Teflon Non-Stick Dry-Film Lubricant. A thin milky white product that quickly dries to a slippery dry film. I've used it on various stuff, not the BMW yet as there's not seemed to be a need but it seems to me to be a possibility. Since it's a dry film lubricant I can't really see it attracting and holding dust, dirt etc. And since it's a product containing teflon I can't see it harming teflon sheathed cables. The warning label cautions against using on hot surfaces, cookware and paper shredders. The first two are easy to understand, not sure the issue with a paper shredder. Should be BMW safe!

https://www.walmart.com/ip/DuPont-Non-S ... e/49235098

[swamper]

I used Tri-Flow for the cables. I actually have it for my S1000XR chain, it's good for all kinds of stuff.

[towerworker]

I used Tri-Flow for the cables. I actually have it for my S1000XR chain, it's good for all kinds of stuff.

Yeah +1 on Triflow. I've used it on lots of stuff as well

[skylarmav1]

Tower and Swamper, think I can take apart bowden and clean it? Or does it need replaced? Also, how do I tell if cable is bad besides obvious fraying, etc? Thx to both!
Skylarmav1

[swamper]

I've never taken one apart, and never heard of anyone having that as a problem.

[skylarmav1]

Got it. Thx!