actually, I think that piece you're calling the crown race is for the upper section of the steerer tube. It's supposed to sit on top of the upper headset bearing with the cover over it.
the crown race looks more like a dish plate.
page 2
http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=...masILlbvHT9mAQ
you're right it looks like i have it wrong.
i have two of the parts mixed up.