Help with internal headset please!!!!

ryan0380

Hi all,
I purchased a frame recently and it came with an internal headset but no matter what way I install the bearings and the cups there is always play in the forks particularly in the lower end. I have tried what i think are all the possible combinations but obviously not the right one. The steerer hasnt been cut and is still quite long as I want to play around with different heights before I cut it. I have googled and searched but to no avail, anybody any suggestions????

rab!dmonkey

Is the crown race properly seated?

victorcarrera

Are you sure you have the correct size crown race on the fork and bearings with the correct diameters and seat angles for your frame and steerer tube.
Next check that the star nut or fork bung is secure and located a suitable distance from the top of the steerer. Is the steerer tube marked/damaged anywhere near where the stem is to be clamped.
After you think you have adjusted it try twisting the spacers under the stem with your hand. If you can you are not loading the bearings properly. Then check that you have sufficient spacers and ensure fork bung is secured 5mm from top of steerer.

ryan0380

Thanks for replies,
I'm happy that bung is installed correctly and that I have enough spacers and that the fork isn't damaged. Spacers will move in my hand unless I really tighten headset cap which would suggest that I have not load the bearing correctly. I have put the bearings with the larger diameter on the crown race as the other bearings won't fit over it. When loading the bearing on the crown race does the seat go into frame first and then the bearings, so the bearings are closest to the fork??? I am fairly happy that I have everything positioned correctly at the steerer end but not at the crown race. At the crown race, I put on a plastic type washer, then bearings and then steel seat, have I this order correct?

Thanks again

MediaMan

Have you seen this - http://www.sutherlandsbicycle.com/Chapter12.pdf ?

Found it helpful when I was adjusting mine. Didn't have to assemble my headset from scratch though!

ryan0380

2hrs later I finally think I have it sorted thanks to media man and his very informative link to sutherlands bicycles. Goin to take it out for a spin to make sure everything is in order. Thanks again

Joey Joe-Joe Jr

That's a great link alright, having a very similar problem and will be fitting new bearings in a few days.