kpmupnorth

just picked up a Cannondale racing bike from a friend, today. I think it is about 10 years old and seems to be in top condition. However,the headset is very peculiar from anything I have experienced before. It seems to lock/click when the wheel is perfectly straight forward. It swings freely in both directions and feels completely smooth otherwise. I am wondering if this particular model had some type of built-in groove on purpose, or do I just happen to have a headset race that has worn. What seems peculiar is that the "locking position" is precisely in the center. Any thoughts or advice you may have on this would be greatly appreciated. My only frame of reference is a 20-year-old Italian racing bike with Shimano 600 that has now become a favorite with my teenage boys.

mechBgon

If the Dura Ace headset is a cartridge-bearing model, replace the bearing cartridges.

Homebrew01

Yup. If it's a loose ball headset. the bearings have pounded little dents into the races so they like to settle there. You have several options. 1) You can leave it as-is. You probably won't notice while you're riding. 2) Remove the races, then re-install them. This will un-align the little dents so you don't notice it any more. 3) Buy a new headset.

kpmupnorth

Thanks MechBgon. How would I know if it is a cartridge headset? I presume I will have to take it apart? The only info on the top nuts is "Shimano HP 7400 BCT. If it is a cartridge, any ideas on where to aquire a new set? If not a cartridge ...?

mechBgon

That's good info. The 7400-series Dura Ace is not cartridge, so you could either remove the crown race from the fork crown and press it back on after turning it to a new orientation, or get a new crown race, or get a new headset.

If you decide to get a new headset, a Shimano 105 cartridge-bearing model might be a good pick. If you want to try to hunt down a new crown race, try older LBSs in your area who might still have one in their stash.