Can I use a compression plug on a front suspension fork?
 

Hello-
I have a 2010 Trek 6000 Series MTB. I love the frame, so I've decided to start thinking about a complete re-build of the bike. To that end, I've settled on this front suspension fork:

http://www.amazon.com/2014-15-RockSh.../dp/B00IOS3YWQ

My question is this: can I use a compression plug on an MTB front suspension rather that installing a star nut? (I use a compression plug on my road rig, but as a newer bicycle mechanic, I'm not as well versed on mountain bike 'physiology')

If one, or several, of you knowledgeable fellows would kindly weigh in on my question I would be very grateful. I have a lot to learn and I can't think of a better place to start than this forum.

Much appreciated and thank you.

Sure, not a problem. If you're a weight-weenie, you can even remove the plug once you've locked in the preload with the stem.

Hi! Thanks for the reply. I'm not much of a weight weenie, but I'd be very interested in knowing more about what 'locked in the preload with the stem' means. Would I be able to read up on that by accessing a RockShox tech manual? And also, does the use of a compression plug change how I would approach cutting the steer tube in order to fit it to my bike?

If the plug has a lip the prevents it from being inserted fully in the steerer tube, the tube must be cut longer and have a spacer above the stem.

The steerer on this fork is 1-1/8" but seems to be steel or aluminum. Be sure you get a compression plug intended for a metal steerer, not a carbon one, as the ID's are different. "Locked in the preload with the stem" means once you adjust the headset with the top bolt, tightening the stem's steerer clamp bolts holds that setting. It's the same as your road bike.

If you haven't done this before, I strongly recommend you read Park Tool's web site tutorial on threadless headset installation and adjustment as it will describe all of the steps.

Rockshock might recommend a star nut. And you will want to keep it in there with the nut and bolt threaded together. There are lots of stresses on a sus fork.

the act of tightening the stem bolts around the steerer tube Is what keeps the headset properly tight.