Headset - compression ring wont fit
 

Hey guys, just got my new bearings however having a problem, I cant fit the compression ring on. Its fit the old upper bearing fine and I would could just slide it over the steer tube and set in place (maybe thats why I was getting play in headset?). Any help would be appreciated, TIA

I try to slip the compression ring on like so, will not seat on bearing because too tight

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...LbcjsESw#t=168

There are a variety of centering cones out there, but all have a tapered area which mates to similar taper in the bearing or top cup. As long as it starts, it should slide in until it jams. In any case, it should never slide in all the way. The washers, spacers or trim parts have to sit on the cone which doesn't slide in far enough for the spacers to ouch the race.

If you can't get it started, it might be that the bearing is upside down. Remember taper fits taper.

Yep, I have the bearing installed correctly. I am using old compression ring with new bearing. The new upper bearing is slightly shorter than the old one, but advertised as 1 1/8 36x45. Should I just buy a new headset so that everything (including the compression ring matches)?

integrated headset bearings are spec'd according to the frame, not the compression ring. The compression ring geometry is somewhat unique to each manufacturer (subject to the number of possibilities). If you're going to replace parts individually, you have to pay attention to these details. I don't know if a new headset is the only option, possibly you can find a compatible ring if you search.

If you can't find a ring, you might succeed with an O-ring of the right size. If it can almost, but not quite be squeezed into the bearing's inner angle it can do the compression ring's job very effectively.

Thanks FBinNY, really appreciate the info. Gets frustrating at times and just want to go to LBS, especially with no bike to use. But feels great when I get it fixed myself so I'll keep at it. Ordered one of these to go with the FSA bearings so hopefully it'll work.

FSA 1 1 8" Gold Compression Alloy Ring for Road Mountain Bike Cycling Headset | eBay