Headset removal

[IbocProSX]

Hi all,

I'm having a hard time removing a (non-retro) Syncros headset from an aluminium frame. I reckon ther's a ton of experience on this board, and I'm looking for advice please?

I'm using a Park Tools universal headset removal tool, the split tube type, with a hammer. I have the frame top tube clamped in a Park PC10 stand, and the headset didn't even move when I hit the tool with my plastic hammer. I can hit harder, and I do have a steel hammer too, but the frame is very lightweight and I worry about the tube in the clamp area at 30cm (1') plus between the clamp and the head tube.

Any help is welcome, TIA.

 

[Sithlord]

If you have them there tools fella, your onto a good start, I would try with a hammer with a bit more weight behind it, dont go mad though, short firm taps should do it, as long as the removal tool is seated onto the headset race there should be no issues with damaging the frame..

The other thing I have done in the past in the bike shop is use a bit of heat and lube to assist in removal...

Hope this helps

Si

 

[john]

Hi all,

I'm having a hard time removing a (non-retro) Syncros headset from an aluminium frame. I reckon ther's a ton of experience on this board, and I'm looking for advice please?

I'm using a Park Tools universal headset removal tool, the split tube type, with a hammer. I have the frame top tube clamped in a Park PC10 stand, and the headset didn't even move when I hit the tool with my plastic hammer. I can hit harder, and I do have a steel hammer too, but the frame is very lightweight and I worry about the tube in the clamp area at 30cm (1') plus between the clamp and the head tube.

Any help is welcome, TIA.

Make sure the removal tool is contacting the headset cup as opposed to any internal butting on the frame.

Then hit it harder.

 

[Anthony]

It'd be safer not to clamp it in the stand - just hold it by the head tube and in your left hand (assuming you're right handed) and hit the tool as hard as you like with a steel hammer.

The head tube is over twice as thick metal as the top tube, so you'd need to be pretty strong to break a head tube, but I share your qualms about the top tube.

 

[IbocProSX]

Thanks for your help, commmon sense I guess but I've never had to resort to anything like this on other frames/headsets.

So, I'll use the steel hammer with short taps, and see if I can clamp the head tube whilst supporting the frame through the bottom bracket. If that goes nowhere it's heat and (more) lube.

I had thought of using ice inside and hot air outside, anyone try that before?

 

[Sithlord]

Would the heat not just melt the Ice ? :? :? :shock:

 

[stew-b]

as said,dont clamp it but hold it and hit it much harder.

 

[pete_mcc]

It'd be safer not to clamp it in the stand - just hold it by the head tube and in your left hand (assuming you're right handed) and hit the tool as hard as you like with a steel hammer.

I'd second that. Also, soak the whole thing in penetrating oil as well (or cola) as the ali headset and tube may have fused slightly

 

[IbocProSX]

Thanks again, I'll try holding it then but that'll be tomorrow evening, it's half past midnight here now.

Enjoy!!

 

[stew-b]

so!?