Bicycle Mechanics - Swapping a fork

So from my understanding swapping a fork isn't all too difficult. I take off that top cap, remove my stem so that the top of the fork is free to move. Take off the spacers, pull the fork out, and basically just stuff the new one in there and put everything back on, is that the basic concept? Is there anything i should be aware of it's a 1.125" threadless headset.

So from my understanding swapping a fork isn't all too difficult. I take off that top cap, remove my stem so that the top of the fork is free to move. Take off the spacers, pull the fork out, and basically just stuff the new one in there and put everything back on, is that the basic concept? Is there anything i should be aware of it's a 1.125" threadless headset.
The bottom crown race will need to be swapped over. You'll need a new star fangled nut You'll also need to cut the steerer tube to the proper length. Just minor stuff

what is the race thinger? the steerer tube is cut and there is already that bolt in the tube.

the bottom crown race is the circular ring shaped bearing surface that sits on the crown of the fork. When you put the new fork on you have to slide it down the fork tube and seat it on the new fork. There are special tools for mounting and demounting the crown race. Maybe you can improvise if you havent´t got them.

see http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/howfix_headthreadless.shtml

Just go to your LBS and ask them to show you how. Maybe give them 10 bucks for their time. The tool isnt really worth buying if you only use it once or twice. You can always tap it up with a screwdriver and hammer, but that can damage the race.

I use a pine block and nylon mallet for installing races. You're better off having a shop install it though, as it only has to be a little uneven to ruin your headset.

I use a pine block and nylon mallet for installing races. You're better off having a shop install it though, as it only has to be a little uneven to ruin your headset.

as long as you can get the race off without damaging it installing it on the new fork is dead easy - just push it right on to the bottom- even I can't screw that one up

The biggest issue is getting it off undamaged, which is probably easier to do with the tool.

Uh.. does this apply to threaded forks?

I use the pine block/nylon mallet for removal as well. But it's very important to properly seat the race so that your bearings sit flush. Same for threaded forks.

I think just due to my lack of confidence I'll have my LBS show me how to or someone who has done it before.

I use a piece of pvc pipe with to instal the race. the pipe alone will work fine for 1" but I had to make a little wooden "donut" of sorts to use with the pvc pipe for it to work for 1.125". and maybe a bigger piece of pvc pipe, I'm not sure. and a vice that was very carefully set with the jaws just the right width apart to remove. you could put some tape on the jaws to add a little protection.

Uh.. does this apply to threaded forks?
The lower crown race is universal between treaded and treadless. Maybe not universal between component manufacturers.