how to tighten a threadless headset

[NRSracer]

how do i do this?

[-BB-]

Originally posted by pat873401
how do i do this?

Assuming the cups are installed correctly, all you need to do is tighten the top cap and then the stem bolts.

[NRSracer]

the fork tube is sticking up, now what do i do?

[johnbryanpeters]

1) Loosen stem bolts, not way loose, but loose.
2) Tighten cap bolt until you just get play out of bearings.
3) Tighten stem bolts, making sure stem is pointed in the right direction.

When you finish, there should be no play, but bearings shouldn't show any tendency to bind in any position.

J

[johnbryanpeters]

Originally posted by pat873401
the fork tube is sticking up, now what do i do?
I presume you meen the steerer tube. How much is it sticking up?
Did you take any spacers out?
Unless something's radically wrong, you either need spacers or you need to shorten the steerer tube.
If you get really lost, hie thee to your LBS before breaking something.

Don't feel alone, we have all been in a panic like this before.

J

[-BB-]

Originally posted by pat873401
the fork tube is sticking up, now what do i do?

If you are installing a new fork, and the steerer tube is sticking out above the stem, you need to get some spacers for it or cut the steerer tube (have a shop cut it)
I'm not sure what the limit is on the number/height of the spacers.
SO... install the headset, add in the spacers and stem (spacers can go above or below the stem...or both... your call)
There should be about a 2mm space between the top of the steerer and the top of the stem (or top spacer)
Put on the top-cap and tighten until the play is gone from the Headset (not too tight or you will pull out the star-nut)
Then tighten down the stem.
Lemme know if you need more help.

[-BB-]

Here is a little pic I whipped up.
(Good thing I'm not a graphic designer ;) )

[NRSracer]

thanks

[kitchenware]

Might be too late, but maybe it'll help someone else in the future. I posted this on mtbr a while back.

go here (http://forums13.consumerreview.com/crforum?13@165.0ZpcaS4TfZz^257051@.ef3df94/0)

[oly]

Properly facing a headtube will fix the sticking when the headset id tightened correctly. If it sticks cuz you reefed on the bolts then back it off. A good facing should be a basic requirement to building a quality bike.

My 2c