IFT 1996 Head Tube inner dimensions too small. Will it crack?

[memb544]

Hey friends,
Just got myself a 1996 Marin IFT frame. I want to install a new headset, but I noticed a pretty big size difference between the head tume inner dimensions vs the headset.
Head tube inner dimension is 33.64mm while the headset cup housing is 34.1. That's a 0.46mm difference..
I know that IFT head tubes are prone to cracking, so my questions is - is it safe to install the headset or does the head tube needs reaming?

 

[CassidyAce]

34.1 is a little large. I would make sure all the relevant surfaces are clean and double-check the measurements before anything else. If you're still confident the measurements are spot on, I think I'd look at taking 0.1mm off the headset cup before touching the head tube. If you go the other way, and then replace the headset in the future, you risk the replacement headset being a bit loose fitting.

For info, scroll down to Table 1 here: https://www.parktool.com/en-int/blog/repair-help/standardized-headset-identification-system.

 

[jonnymcenroe]

1996 IFT is less prone to cracking than previous years.