1 1/8" metal steerers are generally considered OK for quill type steerer tube extenders, which should make them OK for quill stems.
All you need is a way to lock and preload the headset.
Lock can be achieved with a suitably sized seat post clamp.
Preload can be set with some threaded rod, large washers and a piece of tubing.
Or a big c-clamp and a piece of tubing.