Speed Shifters
Any suggestions on fixing a three-speed shifter on a bicycle?
I got this great old bike, must be 20 years old, at a thrift store the other day, for just $25. It came with a little wear-and-tear, as could have been expected, but nothing so far that I couldn't fix myself... except for the gear shifter. When I was changing the tires, I think I messed it up. It seemed like it popped on and off again, but it very apparently doesn't... whenever I try to shift gears while riding, the chain pops off. D:
Anybody have any idea what the problem might be? Is this a simple fix, or do I have to take this to the shop?
The bike has 'Huffy 3 Timberline' on the side of it. And it's a ladies' bike. 
That's all I could possibly tell you about the make.
Damian is correct, but since you didn't mention what brand hub you have it is difficult to help.
Sturmey Archer will have a small chain protruding from the hub to shift, while Shimano will have an "L" shaped piece screwed on the end of the axle. Screw this piece off and there is a long rod. If you push it into the hub you'll note it is spring loaded.
With Shimano, you should take both the L shape and the rod out of the hub, then tighten the rear wheel so that there is no slop in the chain.
Reinsert the rod, and turn the L shape onto the hub until the little gizmo attached to the inside of it protrudes completely plus just enough to line up with the cable. Shift the shifter to 2nd gear.
Attach the cable and turn it in until a little round mark appears in the window of the L. You are ready to go.
Make sure that when you shift that you STOP pedalling, whether Shimano or Sturmey Archer.
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