Bicycle Mechanics - Adjustable race removal

Hi, I'm trying to remove the fork from a fairly old bike (Diamondback Traverse mountain bike) with a threaded steerer. I have removed the headset, locknut and washers, but the adjustable race is rather tight and does not appear to have anywhere to attach a spanner - i.e. it's completely circular. Any ideas on how I could remove this?

Many thanks in advance for any ideas.

James

channel locks

strap wrench

Sounds like the tang on the washer has damaged the threads. You may be able to sort it with a needle file before removing the cup (or cone, depending on its design).

VAR tool #78:
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/var/images/var0021.jpg

If the headset is ally and you want to re-use it, I'd recommend against forcing it off with some sort of gripping tool; you'll trash the threads.

And if it's steel, it might get stuck. Try to clean up the thread first, IMO.

One of the handiest items to keep in a tool box is a section of an old leather belt. Wrap it around polished plumbing fixtures before using pump (Channelock) pliers. same thing for your job. Protect the cup from cosmetic damage and use pump pliers.

If the threads above were distorted by the lock washer you might need a bit of force to get past them. Use some cutting oil, or any decent grease of oil and work the cup back and forth moving progressively forward with each pass until you've chased the thread back to form and it passes the bad zone.

Cheers for the help. Managed to get it off with loads of penetrating oil and bare hands in the end as I couldn't get my hands on any channel locks.