Bicycle Mechanics - YST 541 Headset Bearing Removal

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DPDISXR4Ti
12-02-10, 04:21 PM
For reasons which quickly become apparent when you see the pic below, I'm in the process of stripping the components off my head tube (if not perhaps the entire bike).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v148/DPDISXR4Ti/VO2Max-HeadTube.jpg

I've got everything removed up top except for the bearing itself. I've tried grabbing the race with channel locks, but it doesn't want to move - I'm guessing it's only gotten more deeply wedged into the tube as it's split.

Any advise on getting this thing out without destroying it?

silver_ghost
12-02-10, 04:57 PM
Here's the tool for the job: http://www.parktool.com/product/head-cup-remover

You seem like a DIYer though; I've seen folks make their own by cutting slits into a length of copper pipe and flaring out the ends.
DPDISXR4Ti
12-02-10, 06:56 PM
Here's the tool for the job: http://www.parktool.com/product/head-cup-remover

You seem like a DIYer though; I've seen folks make their own by cutting slits into a length of copper pipe and flaring out the ends.

I'm a DIYer with a garage full of tools! So the idea here is that it gets knocked out from the inside-out then? I haven't even really removed the fork, although it's not held in place with anything - just sorta floating inside the tube. I may have something that will do the job - if not, what's another tool!? :)

silver_ghost
12-02-10, 08:09 PM
That's right. You'll have to take the fork out, then slide the "rocket" into the headtube from the top, the four prongs will rest on the inside of the bearing cup. Then pound the other side of the tool with a hammer and the cup will pop out. It doesn't take much, with that crack it'll probably be even easier. Then reverse the process for the lower cup.
DPDISXR4Ti
12-03-10, 08:54 AM
Okay, thanks for the clarification. I think I've got some 1" copper pipe in the garage, so I may have to make that tool after all. :)
HillRider
12-03-10, 10:16 AM
As an expedient in the absence of the correct tool, headset cups can be removed using a long punch (preferably brass, not steel) and a hammer. Remove the fork and use the punch around the interior edges of the cups to drive them out. Work the punch evenly around the circumference to drive the cups out straight.

Depending on how forceful you were with the Channel Locks, you may be in the market for a new headset too.