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Threadless Headset Stfiff after Overhaul
#1
Hey guys,

I recently overhauled my FSA threadless headset ie. took it to bits, cleaned everything, greased it & put it back on.

Now, although the handlebars still turn as much as I need them to, the headset feels quite stiff.

Does anyone know what the problem might be?

Cheers

Si
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#2
you have probably overtightened the top cap screw.
read this, section 12 under headset assembly;
http://www.bike-components.de/bedienungsanleitungen/2011/fsa/gravity/headset_instructions.pdf
  Reply
#3
(05-05-2011, 07:42 AM)trevgbb Wrote:  you have probably overtightened the top cap screw.
read this, section 12 under headset assembly;
http://www.bike-components.de/bedienungsanleitungen/2011/fsa/gravity/headset_instructions.pdf

Aah right, thanks Trev, thanks very much. In your opinion, should I go through the whole overhaul procedure again? Or just loosen the top cap a bit?

Cheers

Si
  Reply
#4
loosen the side clamp screws until you can just move the bars around, back off the top cap screw a little at a time, until you have the right "feel" on the bearings, retighten the side screws. Test the assembly on rotation and forward and back against the brake, repeat if necessary.
You cannot adjust the bearing preload with the side clamp screws tight.
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#5
make sure your bearings are not put in upside down
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"
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