Bicycle Mechanics - Headset-Fork Q

So, I have a new frame and fork and bought a threadless headset for it and had it installed by the LBS. Hmm, something is missing. Aha. Where do I get the long(8-10in) bolt to tighten down the headset. The one that should go from the top of the headtube to the bottom of the headtube by the fork split? Thanks. LBS is closed all week, but won't they need to stock many, many lengths? Will I find something suitable at Lowes or somewhere else? Thanks again. :o

This has some of the earmarks of either a troll or a joke but, in the absence of confirming evidence, I'll answer it as if it's a serious query.

If the fork has a steel or aluminum steerer you need to have a star nut installed. These sit about 15 mm below the top of the steerer and the adjusting bolt is only 25 or 30 mm long.

If the fork has a carbon steerer tube you must use an expander plug and there is nothing to be installed in the steerer.

If the fork has a steel or aluminum steerer you need to have a star nut installed. These sit about 15 mm below the top of the steerer and the adjusting bolt is only 25 or 30 mm long.

It is steel or alu, haven't checked which, but it is definitely not carbon. I guess my question is that I have the 'cap' for the top of the fork (which still need to be cut) and that little part needs to be screwed down, but doesn't have anything to screw into it like on my other bikes (to remove the initial wobble before tightening the stem)...

If someone tells me how to post pics I'll show you what I am talking about.

Sorry, this is my first build from scratch and park tools website is helping but just need a little help here...

Threadless forks come way too long for most frames and have to be cut to the proper length for the rider's preference. If your fork was left uncut and the star nut not installed, you will have to go back to the LBS to finish the job.

Threadless forks come way too long for most frames and have to be cut to the proper length for the rider's preference. If your fork was left uncut and the star nut not installed, you will have to go back to the LBS to finish the job.

Thanks for the reply. LBS is closed all week. :(

The LBS has done you a favor, he probably wants to get the fit right, with you on the bike, before cutting the steer tube. You can always cut the tube shorter but you can never cut it longer.

Al