Probably should read compression plug instead of compression spacer

Well it doesnt matter, im just waiting to get a star nut (:

No, Evil is correct. What he is referring to is a bolted circular clamp the same diameter of the steerer tube, which serves the same function that the stem does when it is tightened. Actually, the real purpose of a "compresssion spacer" is to allow the the stem to be moved up the steerer tube w/o needing a lot of regular spacers. Still, trying to adjust a headset properly w/o a topcap with either a star nut or compression plug is difficult at best, so his decision to simply buy another start nut is the correct one.

I have always removed mine with a flat head screw driver, and installed with a piece of PVC pipe. Those were on mountiain bikes, bit I don't think it makes much difference. I have found that some forks allow the race to be removed easier than others.

Ahhh, basically a locking spacer then? Yeah, using that or stem for preload is futile.

Or maybe more like this? I kinda looks like an oddly shaped locking spacer, but says adjustable and that it can be used for setting preload?

Sweet, another use for my headset wrenches.

Yeah, I've seen those at the track. They are useful if you are constantly changing out bar / stem assemblies, and don't want to have to constantly readjust the the headset. You still need to install a topcap, because open steerer tubes are not permitted for safety reasons. In the example shown by SB, you can eliminate all the spacers between the locking spacer and stem, but the SB spacer is not also an adjuster like the Problem Solvers part.

I think Sheldon's spacer is a seat collar.

No one mentioned the oven/freezer trick?

Throw the fork in the freezer for about 2 hours.....
Throw the crown race in the oven (200 degrees) 45mins
If you have the right sized CR it should slide right into place.
I havent tried it yet but in theory it should work.
Will try it soon after I find the correct Headset for my bike

Problem is my refrigerator freezer isn't big enough for a fork and the fork crown race in my latest headset (Cane Creek S3) has a rubber seal built in that I don't think would do well in an oven. But, seriously, it's a lot simpler to just install with a pipe or dedicated tool. Whack whack whack, and it's done.

newer campagnolo headsets have seals on the bottom race as well. i am not sure if they are glued or vulcanized but either way you wont be removing it.

Got the star nut in. Worked like a charm (: thanks for the help everyone.

Sorry guys but that Pink saddle in background.....Most of the video just shows the end of it... LOL

rofl.

seems like I've heard that before...

That's the method I use. Works too!