Cable unwound

[tcongdon]

Has anyone ever had a cable unwind while trying to adjust it? I just replaced it when I first got the trailer in 2017. So not all that old.

Thanks, Travis

 

[JackandJanet]

Travis, I moved your post to its own, new thread, because I think this may be a unique problem.

I'm having trouble understanding what you mean by "unwind". Can you elaborate?

- Jack

 

[tcongdon]

The cable is untwisted. So the strands were all separated from the first pully to the adjusting bolt.

 

[JackandJanet]

Thanks - I've never heard of this happening. Maybe the adjusting bolt turned in a way that unwound the strands? I suspect this weakens the cable a small amount along that length, but I don't think it would be excessive. It WOULD cause the cable to lengthen somewhat there.

Edit: It's possible the stress on the individual strands are no longer equal in the area where it's unwound. This might cause those strands to start breaking, which would in turn increase the stress on the remaining strands, leading to a "cascading" effect. I'd keep an eye on that portion for a while and replace the cable if you notice any fraying.

- Jack

 

[tcongdon]

I suspect the nut either hit a burr or some dirt which made the nut lock in place so when I was trying to tighten the cable it unwound. I already replaced it. I found one online which cost me more than the 2 I bought a few years ago. In fact, the information sheet I have the guy said he bought all four for $120.00, The one I just bought was more than that. Oh well, I least I can use it without worrying it will fall on me.

 

[JackandJanet]

I've always held the bolt on the rear side of the frame with pliers whenever I turned the nut to adjust the cable length. I can see how not holding the bolt would allow it to turn and the cable to unwind.

- Jack

 

[tcongdon]

I replaced both back cables a few years ago and did not have any problems then. But now I will make sure to hold them in place.