Bicycle Mechanics - steel headset on an aluminum frame?

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is there any issue with pressing in a standard steel headset into a aluminum frame or should i be looking for an alloy headset? ANy problems with the dissimular metals here?
fietsbob
07-01-11, 07:24 AM
Removal won't be an issue, unlike a stuck seatpost..
just, bang on the end of the "rocket tool" with a hammer
The bearings and races will be steel in any case..
.. make sure the headset fit is not oversize..
Thanks
Here is another...
I have a frame that used to have a Cane Creek alloy Headset. IT was an 1 inch unthreaded fork setup.
I now have a threaded fork.
Im fitting a alloy DA headset to the frame / fork
My bottom DA cup went in easy (took all my force by hand..no tools...to push into the lower. The upper is kinda loose in that it can be put in place and removed by hand ..no force at all. If pressure is applied by hand it will spin.
Do i need to worry about this? I havent tried it with the fork mounted to see if it spins with the fork properly mounted or not.
I realize that most of the force will be on on the bottom cup so im not really that concerned but i thought i would ask. Maybe i could put 1 loop of plumbers pipe thread tape around the top cup and then insert it for a snugger fit? Maybe its time to start shoping for a different headset?
This DA set doesnt have a top nut but those are easy to come by Im sure any top nut will do.
BCRider
07-01-11, 09:33 AM
For press fits such as the headset you always want to grease or use a full smear of Never Seize on the parts before pressing home. In this case it's not only to avoid corrosion issues but also to prevent one metal catching at and galling the other. It's the same when press fitting replacement cartridge bearings into a wheel hub or on a suspension frame's joint. The grease or NS ensures a trouble free pressing and serves to avoid long term corrosion issues as a side benefit.
The ONLY time you do a non greased press fit is if the bearing is a sloppy fit in the hole and you're using Loctite to form the fit it needs. In this case the fit means there's no lubrication needed and the Loctite or whatever brand of curable agent needs dry surfaces free of any grease or oil film to avoid contamination and ensure a good bond.
reptilezs
07-01-11, 03:32 PM
Thanks
Here is another...
I have a frame that used to have a Cane Creek alloy Headset. IT was an 1 inch unthreaded fork setup.
I now have a threaded fork.
Im fitting a alloy DA headset to the frame / fork
My bottom DA cup went in easy (took all my force by hand..no tools...to push into the lower. The upper is kinda loose in that it can be put in place and removed by hand ..no force at all. If pressure is applied by hand it will spin.
Do i need to worry about this? I havent tried it with the fork mounted to see if it spins with the fork properly mounted or not.
I realize that most of the force will be on on the bottom cup so im not really that concerned but i thought i would ask. Maybe i could put 1 loop of plumbers pipe thread tape around the top cup and then insert it for a snugger fit? Maybe its time to start shoping for a different headset?
This DA set doesnt have a top nut but those are easy to come by Im sure any top nut will do.
use loctite 609 retaining compound or similar. then use the headset press to clamp it and allow it to cure
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