I don't know...building a bike is tough.

Anyway, I cut a threaded steerer down a little. Now I sure the threads are subtly uneven because the headset nut won't catch and screw on. I don't want to force the issue as I think I will strip the aluminum nut.

How do I remedy this? I've left plenty of steerer to play with.

Thanks again.

When you saw the threads you raise a lot of burrs. What you need to do is use a fine cut file and dress the end and the first thread so the thread start is clean. Usually if you just go around it holding the file at about a 30 degree angle it'll remove the ragged burrs and dress down that first thread.

Now this is also assuming that you didn't cut it down so far that you're working with the last few remaining threads. If so then that won't work since the die that cut the threads doesn't cut full depth threads for the first 3 to 4 turns.

A thread file is a great tool to get if you are that way inclined. The guy in the tool shop will show you how simple it is to use, otherwise buy a needle file set. They are very cheap. great for fine thread repairs.

A small triangulat file can be used to clean up the satar of the threads.

BTW, for future reference, before you cut a threaded steerer, thread the top headset race onto the steerer and all the way down below the cut line. Then after the steerer is cut, unthreading the race will automatically clean up the thread start.

For this sort of dressing up I've never had the need for a specific thread file. Just a flag file used to bevel the cut rim is enough.

Lot of times if I don't feel like using or digging out a file, I just run whatever I cut on a wire wheel mounted to my bench grinder.

Excellent, thank you for the pearls and advice.

I feel less discouraged now!