When you install a new headset, do you use the proper technique and use a headset reamer and then a press? I usually use my big friendly hammer (BFH) and pound them in, and I've never had any trouble yet. I'm building a new bike that I'll have quite a bit of money in, and I want to do it right. What do you think?

A soft flat board on either side with a rubber mallet works great. There is however always the risk of it slipping just enough to bend one of the cups(from personal experiance). If you have a lot of money in this bike i would not take the chance. Either fork out the 100 or so bucks for the headset press or just take it to the shop and have them do it.

If you have access to a hydrolic press ( as in a machine shop) then those work well. That is what I use and have never had a problem with it. Since it seems you are building a DREAM bike of sorts I would not take a chance with the hammer idea but I already said that.

Slainte

You can make your own prress from threaded rod and washers or blocks of hsrdwood.

I use a threaded rod and a variety of washers... never had any trouble with this method. In the past, I've smacked them in with a hammer and a block of wood, but I like the threaded rod. It's easier. It cost me about $2.50 at the hardware store. I find the main thing is to take your time and make sure the cups are going in straight. Here's a basic plan, courtesy of the internet and google:
https://www.mindspring.com/~d.g1/headset.html
Mine's a bit different, but along the same principle.

When I built up my bike I had the LBS
install the fork and headtube races.
No charge.
I think I'd try the homemade press using
the brass bushings next time around.

Marty

got 'em in, thanks guys, the bolt thing worked well. Now all I need is my fork, wheelset, brakes.... Another week or two and this baby should be rolling.

Hi Guys, if you need to use tools to "bash" any bearings into their housing, make sure that you DO NOT use anything soft (pieces of wood, brass drifts, copper tubing etc.) It's possible that small pieces might break off and enter the race of the bearing drastically reducing its life. Of course, any kind of "press" that can be made is the best way.
I'm an engineer, trust me

OH NOOOOO! An engineer!!!

I'm a technician, I work with engineers every day. If you need any help setting your watch let me know Gordon

Just kidding, welcome to the board, we can use all the intelligence we can find around here.