Vintage Headset Locknut removal

whysomanyhills

Hi,

I'm just rebuilding an old bike (strip down / re-spray). The lock nut on the headset is a tabbed lock nut (there are 3 indented tabs on the lock nut) and I'm just wondering if there is a specific tool/socket that can be used for it before I start trying some combination of tools to get it off.

I have photos but I can't post them as I'm a new user.

Thanks

blamester

without a photo it"s hard to say but you could try a strap wrench instead of a marking the headset with a bodged together tool.
Are you going to reuse the headset?

cdaly_

This kind of thing?

Mycroft H

whysomanyhills wrote: »

Hi,

I'm just rebuilding an old bike (strip down / re-spray). The lock nut on the headset is a tabbed lock nut (there are 3 indented tabs on the lock nut) and I'm just wondering if there is a specific tool/socket that can be used for it before I start trying some combination of tools to get it off.

I have photos but I can't post them as I'm a new user.

Thanks

I think I know what your on about. My old bike had one of those before I replaced the headset.

Pretty sure I got a mallet and a flathead screwdriver and gently tapped it off. It won't be on tight

tomasrojo

Mycroft H wrote: »

I think I know what your on about. My old bike had one of those before I replaced the headset.

Pretty sure I got a mallet and a flathead screwdriver and gently tapped it off. It won't be on tight

Sounds similar to the old lock ring for adjustable bottom brackets. A lot of people used a hammer and chisel (gently) to get them off.

Mycroft H

If your gentle, it's very easy to get them off. Blast of penetrating fluid first to loosen it up.

Type 17

If you do want a tool for this type of locknut, it's called a crescent wrench (or crescent spanner in Europe).

whysomanyhills

Thanks All

@cdaly That's exactly the type of locknut on it - I got my hands on a hook wrench (not an exact fit like the tool in your photo) that I reckon might do the job

The bike is about 20-30 years old I'd so once I've the headset off I'll take a look and see what kind of condition it's it before looking at replacing it - that's why I didn't initially wan't to go hammering the lock nut in case I want to reuse it

Mycroft H

It might be alright. If it's a cheapo no name job I'd perhaps replace it. Headsets are cheap

Type 17

If the tool you've got is too big, hold the end of a flat-blade screwdriver between the tool and the lockring, opposite the lug, to fill the gap ...