urgent component problem

[mko72]

My shifters packed it in so I bought Sram SLX4 shifters (they're kinda like traditional rapid fire)

The bike has a Shimano LX derailleur in the rear, and shimano deore MD591 front derailleur (top and bottom swing model).

When I went to get the derailleurs tuned the mechanic told me Sram shifters won't work with Shimano parts.

Really? REALLY? Isn't this a spring/pull issue?

Any insight is appreciated.

[EVRAC]

Never heard of SLX4, and it's not on their website.

Most SRAM shifters will NOT work, but it's not a blanket statement. If your mechanic thinks it is, then he's a dork.

SRAM makes the Attack and TRX, plus certain older models, that work with Shimano's 2:1 cable pull ratio.

It used to be that the even numbered models worked with shimano, like S8. Anything that starts with an X is 1:1.

[ChunkyMonkey]

^This for the rear. The fronts are interchangeable.

[walleater]

Presumably SX4, which is OEM / old stock stuff. Yeah 1:1 only.....and really crap BTW. Get some low end Shimano shifters if cash is an issue. I think you can get 9sp Alivio shifters now.

[L. Ron Hubbard]

This is why people shouldn't begrudge their shops the few bucks more it costs to buy stuff there than on the internet. And don't get upset at the mechanic for giving you the bad news.

[FullMonty]

insight:

you bought the wrong stuff.

that is all.

solution:

get a set of SRAM TRX shifters or a set of Alivio 9 speed shifters. Both should be fairly inexpensive.

[mko72]

I'm not upset with the tech. I just doubted him. You learn something new everyday. I've learned Sram sx4 shifters don't work with a shimano derailleur. However, the pull ratio issue should be noted as well.

See you all on the hill.

[nouseforaname]

Originally Posted by mko72

However, the pull ratio issue should be noted as well.

It is noted.

[XXX_er]

Originally Posted by EVRAC

Never heard of SLX4, and it's not on their website.

Most SRAM shifters will NOT work, but it's not a blanket statement. If your mechanic thinks it is, then he's a dork.

SRAM makes the Attack and TRX, plus certain older models, that work with Shimano's 2:1 cable pull ratio.

It used to be that the even numbered models worked with shimano, like S8. Anything that starts with an X is 1:1.

I would say the mechanic is doing the OP and himself a big favor by not trying to make something work half-assed

edit for rant:the very worse thing about working in a bike shop is some fucking idiot in the front ( who can't fix fuck all)taking in fucked up shit that the shop can't make money on and not checking the bikes they write work order's on cuz if that customer who told you to just do the absolute minimum level I tuneup knew what was actually wrong with the bike ... he would have fixed it himself