Bicycle Mechanics - Rusty quill stem expander

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mycoatl
03-31-06, 02:24 PM
I'm replacing an old quill stem with a threaded adapter so i can use a 1 1/8" threadless stem without replacing fork or headset. I pulled out the old stem and the expander is very rusted (flakey).

Do I need to worry about a rusted out headset (feels fine, but I can't see too far down the tube)? Should I try to clean out the headset with a brush or something before installing the new quill? Also, I'm assuming I should grease the new stem before intalling--is this right and what do you recommend using?

Thanks.

Sheldon Brown
03-31-06, 02:31 PM
I'm replacing an old quill stem with a threaded adapter so i can use a 1 1/8" threadless stem without replacing fork or headset. I pulled out the old stem and the expander is very rusted (flakey).

Do I need to worry about a rusted out headset (feels fine, but I can't see too far down the tube)? Should I try to clean out the headset with a brush or something before installing the new quill? Also, I'm assuming I should grease the new stem before intalling--is this right and what do you recommend using?

Wedges are commonly cast iron, and they are often rusty with no ill effects.

You can't tell anything about the headset by looking down the inside of the steerer, since the headset is outside the steerer. Anyway, if it feels fine it probably is fine.

You should grease the quill and the the wedge and the bolt (both the threads and the underside of the bolt head.) Doesn't matter what kind of grease, use whatever you've got handy.

Sheldon "My Favorite Is Phil Wood" Brown

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