Headset wobble

[Andy in Germany]

I've noticed my tourer is devloping a case of loose headset. Tightening it helped for a bit but it has started to rock slightly when braking after only a week. Is this a matter of replacing bearings or is there a simpler solution?

 

[fossyant]

Depends, what type, if aheadset with cartridge bearings, just replace, but check the races aren't worn or loose.

 

[Andy in Germany]

Depends, what type, if aheadset with cartridge bearings, just replace, but check the races aren't worn or loose.

Sorry, no it's a stem with cage bearings. I last maintained it some time ago so it's probably due a bit of TLC but I'm wondering on the best approach.

 

[fossyant]

Give it a go with replacing the bearings first - cheapest option - also they can come loose if not nipped up tight. Helps if there is a washer/spacer between the two locking nuts.

 

[Paulus]

Put plenty of grease in the cups when re-assembling.

 

[rogerzilla]

If it can't be tightened without binding or contantly loosening itself again, the head tube and fork crown probably need facing. I reckon about half the steel frames I've had needed this. The builder assumes the retailer will do it, and the retailer assumes the builder has done it.

 

[Andy in Germany]

If it can't be tightened without binding or contantly loosening itself again, the head tube and fork crown probably need facing. I reckon about half the steel frames I've had needed this. The builder assumes the retailer will do it, and the retailer assumes the builder has done it.

What is "facing"?

 

[Gunk]

Sorry, no it's a stem with cage bearings. I last maintained it some time ago so it's probably due a bit of TLC but I'm wondering on the best approach.

I’m still a fan of loose bearings, they’re smoother, you have more bearings in the cup.

 

[rogerzilla]

Cutting the top and bottom of the head tube flat and parallel, and cutting the crown race seat so it is flat and at 90 deg to the steerer. Any good bike shop can do it in about 20 minutes.

 

[Paulus]

If it can't be tightened without binding or contantly loosening itself again, the head tube and fork crown probably need facing. I reckon about half the steel frames I've had needed this. The builder assumes the retailer will do it, and the retailer assumes the builder has done it.

Wouldn't this particular problem show up quite early on when fairly new.
I'm assuming that @Andy in Germany has had this bike for sometime.

 

[Andy in Germany]

Wouldn't this particular problem show up quite early on when fairly new.
I'm assuming that @Andy in Germany has had this bike for sometime.

It's been fine for 6000k so I guess it has a right to be worn.

 

[Andy in Germany]

I’m still a fan of loose bearings, they’re smoother, you have more bearings in the cup.

I see your point. Are loose bearings larger than caged bearings?

 

[TheDoctor]

No, there's just more of them.

 

[ColinJ]

What is "facing"?

THIS.