Headset (Ahead type) replacement

[palinurus]

Headset on my cross bike is sounding rough, I guess it's time to replace it.

Ahead type, cartridge, for 1" steerer- nothing particularly unusual.

I can replace most bits on a bike but I've never done a headset. Normally book them into the LBS for this as I've always assumed I don't have the required tools but I've no idea whether this is actually the case.

What do I need to be able to do it? I'm only interested in the getting off the old headset and sticking in the new one part of the procedure. Adjustment I can do.

 

[accountantpete]

I'd be tempted to take it apart,give it a good clean and replace the bearings if need be.

Otherwise you will need to remove the old crown race - see this video

View: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAYYtAhAxS0



and fit a new one using a piece of tubing to guide it back to the bottom of the steerer.

 

[palinurus]

Ah! I expect that's going to be useful.

Take it apart? I was assuming that cartridge headsets weren't serviceable- I'll do some Googling- ta.

 

[GilesM]

See drawing here, you can easily replace the cartridge bearings, simple job.
http://www.hopetech.com/database/Headset_expl.gif

The crown race on some headsets such as hope is split so it is very easy to fit, no hammers or tubes needed, I think crane creeks are the same.

 

[palinurus]

Good stuff. Found some more help on Sheldon Brown. I'll give it a new lease of life then..

 

[Jonathan M]

Ah! I expect that's going to be useful.

Take it apart? I was assuming that cartridge headsets weren't serviceable- I'll do some Googling- ta.

No, that is the beauty of them, replace the bearings, no cup wear or pitting to be had et voila - its like a new headset.

 

[palinurus]

Well..

Thanks. Not too painful, one issue that had me scratching my head briefly but solved that.

Headset all back together, just got to adjust it now. Ta.

I don't think there was any grease remaining in the lower race, pretty dry in there.