Fork Installation

[elementslst]

I am installing a Stratos S8 on a Banshee Morphine. For some reason it will not fit tightly, its like it is missing a washer or seal. Should there be some bearing or washer on the lower crown before it goes into the headset? There is a small gap. I am looking for that part and don't know what it is called or where to get it.

Thanks in advance.

[Brian HCM#1]

Yes, you need to press on the lower race on the fork prior to installing it. The race needs to be from the model headset you have.

[Toshi]

yes. it's called a crown race, and should have come with your headset. if you took an old fork off the bike the crown race will still be wedged around the steerer tube. use a chisel or flat blade screwdriver and a rubber mallet to work the race loose, and then something like a piece of wood to drive the race down on the new fork's steerer. you don't want to nick the upper surface of the race with the screwdriver.

[Wumpus]

...then something like a piece of wood to drive the race down on the new fork's steerer. you don't want to nick the upper surface of the race with the screwdriver.

A piece of pvc works great for this -- 1 1/4" pvc for a 1 1/8" fork.

[caputo1989]

go to a shop w/ some beer and they will happilly let you use their tools. and they will show you how to do it right

[elementslst]

Thanks guys for the tips. I easily solved my problem.