ppg677

I've built up several bikes. Pressed in headset cups. Installed BBs. Etc.

The one thing I CANNOT yet do without the help of a local bike shop: setting a crown race in a stubborn fork. (I've only managed on a fork where it basically just dropped into place).

I just tried PVC pipe. Even though the PVC fit perfectly around the race, no luck. Eventually the PVC deformed.

I just tried tapping it in with a hammer and 1) wood pieces, and 2) duct-tape wrapped metal bolt. No luck. When tapping on one side it just lifts off the other.

I like LBSs and all, but any other DIY trick without buying the expensive Park setter tools?? I'm tempted to file away the fork a bit.

ppg677

PS-- I'm working with an old steel frame and steel fork. I'm not afraid to wreck this one.

ThermionicScott 

You sure it's the right size (not JIS when you need ISO)?

squirtdad

I use a copper pipe......cause I had one the right size, but have only done a couple

ppg677

Aw crap, the fork measures 27mm and I think I ordered a standard 1" headset :-/ Guess I'm SOL or maybe I can find some old crown race that works.

Dfrost 

I was successful using a PVC pipe that was a close fit over the steerer tube, but it required that I beat the pipe end against a concrete floor while holding the fork legs. Easier on the fork tips, too. A heavy mallet beating on the pipe didn't work. And yes, it was worth checking the size with digital calipers (mine was JIS).

The Park tool for the job is a heavy steel pipe with carefully sized tips for different sized forks and races.

Park Tool Co. » CRS-1 : Crown Race Setting System : Frame & Fork Tools

FBinNY 

A length of 1" (I believe) water pipe does the trick. Have the place you bought it cut it squarely, and deburr the inside with a deburring tool, or round file.

However having more striking power, doesn't mean you can pound a 26.4 (nominal) crown onto a 27mm fork with cracking it. So first check size, then have at it.

FastJake

Yikes. Yes, be sure to pick up a pair of cheap digital calipers if you don't already have some and measure your frame/fork before you buy. Especially before you start hammering!

With some care you can file down your fork crown to fit your new headset. You only need to reduce the diameter 0.6mm. I've done this a couple times with no issues. Just file it until the crown race presses on nicely.

ThermionicScott 

I had that backward anyway -- your fork wants a JIS headset, but you have an ISO. Don't fret! You can still buy new JIS headsets in reasonable quality from a bunch of places (Universal, Harris, VO, etc).

hueyhoolihan

i've got a two foot length of galvanized pipe that was used at one time for fencing, and possibly before that on an oil drilling site. it serves double duty as a cheater bar for my pipe wrench, adjustable wrench and even my 1/2" ratchet wrench on occasion.

it's not big enough for a 1/8 to 1/1/2 inch tapered fork though. damned new technology...

JohnDThompson 

No. It's trivial for your LBS to mill a 27.0mm JIS crown race seat to ISO 26.4mm

ppg677

It was also trivial to order another $11 Tange headset...

At least these don't get scratched up so easily! I just installed a brand new Campy Record headset, and already marred it up with a crappy headset wrench. Sure wish they stilled sold the Park headset wrench that has 6 faces.

rmfnla

This is what I use. The pipe is not hardened, the race is so it doesn't get damaged.

FWIW, I never hit the pipe with a hammer, I tap the pipe/race/fork against the floor and allow the fork to do the work...

Eric S.

I've used this attachment on a drill to open up a stubborn race a couple times.