Bicycle Mechanics - can't figure out where this headset spacer goes

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erbfarm
09-26-08, 12:31 PM
just regreased the bearings in my headset but I've got a small spacer leftover and I can't figure out where it goes. No, I didn't pay attention when I took the thing apart a few months ago!!! the spacer doesn't seem to fit anywhere, it's too tight to fit under the locknut. The headset seems to be working on, no play, and moves freely. Is it a big deal if I leave the spacer off?

DannoXYZ
09-26-08, 12:48 PM
Picture?

Some headsets have a plastic seal on top of the locknut to prevent water from dripping down the stem and corroding onto the steerer.
erbfarm
09-26-08, 02:00 PM
the spacer definitely wasn't at the top of the locknut

ogbigbird
09-26-08, 05:02 PM
did it go at the bottom of the fork? pictures would help a lot. sorry couldnt be more help.
operator
09-26-08, 06:07 PM
the spacer definitely wasn't at the top of the locknut

You really need to take a _good_ photo of this spacer. If it really is a headset spacer I doubt your bike is functioning properly without it.
HillRider
09-26-08, 08:39 PM
Is it a spacer or just a seal ring? Many headsets have a rubber or plastic seal between the bearing cups and the crown race or top cover.
griftereck
09-27-08, 05:53 AM
is the spacer got a taper to it?


or is it just a big washer with straight sides?
Deanster04
09-27-08, 06:18 AM
Spacers are only needed if the Threaded portion of the fork is long enough to require spacers to prevent the lock nut from bottoming out on the top of the steerer tube before locking the head set in position. There is a washer between the threaded cup and the locknut that makes it easier to lock down the 2 threaded parts with significant torque without causing damage to the 2 nuts. It us usually of a softer material and it may be keyed by a tooth or a flatted surface and is usually very tight on the steerer tube. It helps to prevent the nuts from loosening. It is important.
miamijim
09-27-08, 06:59 AM
Picture please....East Hill
erbfarm
09-28-08, 06:56 AM
There is a washer between the threaded cup and the locknut that makes it easier to lock down the 2 threaded parts with significant torque without causing damage to the 2 nuts. It us usually of a softer material and it may be keyed by a tooth or a flatted surface and is usually very tight on the steerer tube. It helps to prevent the nuts from loosening. It is important.

this fits the description. The thin, plastic washer is so tight that I didn't think it belonged in this spot but it does have the tooth and is very tight on the tube. At any rate, I need to use a cable hanger on the bike so the hanger should replace this washer, right?