Originally Posted by
well biked
You do 100% of the preloading with the top cap bolt, the stem bolts need to be loose while you do this, and the expander plug bolt needs to be completely tight before you do it. It seems unclear at this point if you realize this. You will tighten the top cap bolt enough to take all the play out of the headset and not so tight that it binds the steering in any way. This is the correct preload adjustment. Once this is done you tighten the stem bolts.
Yes, you're assessment of me is correct. I suppose that I'm unsure as to the interaction between tightening the expander plug vs. the top cap. Haven't had a chance to look at it tonight. Will follow your and the others suggestions as soon as I'm able. Thanks.