Bicycle Mechanics - Carbon Fork Install

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djpluv
07-05-03, 10:59 AM
Hi - I just recently purchased a new Reynolds Ouzo Pro fork and was wondering if there are any special tools that I'll need to install it (i haven't received the fork yet, so i don't have the owner's manual to look at). I've installed a fork on my mtn. bike before, but haven't touched my road bike - or a fork with a carbon steerer. Thanks!

mechBgon
07-05-03, 11:41 AM
Do you have a saw guide? That would be a good thing to have for the task. Here's Park Tool's fork-sizing info, note the special remarks on carbon steer tubes also:

http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/howfix_forksize.shtml

I would also pay close attention to any instructions provided by Reynolds.
B1105
07-05-03, 02:26 PM
Yea a saw-guide is useful so you cut the steerer tube straight. ALso you will need a tub of some sort to set the crown race. Make sure the race is flat against the top of the fork. Also, to install the starnut, you can just use a hammer and a screw. Just make sure you hammer it in straight.

KevinG
07-05-03, 02:31 PM
Originally posted by B1105
Also, to install the starnut, you can just use a hammer and a screw. Just make sure you hammer it in straight.

Do not install a star nut in a Carbon Steerer! You must use a compression plug made for carbon steerers.
don d.
07-05-03, 02:32 PM
Just a friendly FYI: Park recommends using a 32tpi hacksaw blade for cutting a carbon steerer. Reynolds recommends using a toothless hacksaw blade(gritted) for composite cutting. see<www.reynoldscomposites.com/manual.pdf> and <http://www.artu.com/grittedhacksaw.htm>. And remember, carbon is an inhalation hazard. Use a face mask or filter if possible. :) Ditto on compression plug advice. Also, you can use a hose clamp as a fairly reliable guide in place of a steerer cutting guide.
Kev
07-05-03, 03:13 PM
I like that hose clamp idea! I've never had enough courage to cut my own steering tube, I've always been afraid of accidently cutting it to short, so I just pay my LBS to do it.
KleinMp99
07-05-03, 05:13 PM
Originally posted by B1105
Also, to install the starnut, you can just use a hammer and a screw. Just make sure you hammer it in straight.

LOL
djpluv
07-09-03, 10:47 AM
Thanks guys! I got it installed yesterday and it is sooooo sweet!