As an independent observer, this is so funny. If I were a seller and I got "prov dibs" I'd say "not interested". If I got "2nd dibs for a friend" I'd say "doubly not interested". Then "prov dibs" guy says "undibs - change of heart". What a surprise.
New cable isn't going to help if you don't replace the ferrule, it will just pull through again. You definitely need a new ferrule - and make sure it's the right diameter for brake cable, not gear cable.
If you sit on the bike with the front brake on and push hard on the pedal while looking back at the drivetrain, does anything move? I'm wondering if the rear axle is broken.
Hello jzk,
Send me your email address by private message please and I'll send you some pictures.