1-1/8 headset loose

[zaskar rider]

Hi All,
Ive just got a Giant scr3, i have stripped the headset to make sure it was packed with grease and because it was loose (bit of wobble when the front brake is on and the bike is rocked back and forth )
So all put back together and i tighten it up... but when i do it either goes too tight so the bars are stiff to turn or when a take the pressure off till the bars turn ok it then becomes too loose as it was before i stripped it...
It all looks clean and in good condition but i suppose it could be worn...... any thoughs on what it could be


many thanks

[531colin]

If there is no "sweet spot" between "binding" and "play", is it possible that somebody has fitted too small balls, or a caged race the wrong way up?
Wear usually presents as notchy "indexed" steering....loose cups are still loose when the bearing is correctly set.

[cycleruk]

Short video on adjusting headset:-
http://bicycletutor.com/adjust-threadless-headset/

[gaz]

(bit of wobble when the front brake is on and the bike is rocked back and forth )

Are you sure it's the headset and not a little play in the brake?

[zaskar rider]

HI folks

thanks for the tips.... it is the headset no the front brake... so i think i'll check the size of the ball race.
Its so close with just a little rocking/knocking

thanks again

[zaskar rider]

Hi all

Ive got it sorted... the whole setup came with a couple of thinner spacers which were placed at the top under the adjustment cap, so i placed them under the cup at the top end and this has put the pressure on the split bearing thingy and allowed adjustment... sweet

many thanks

[531colin]

Hi all

Ive got it sorted... the whole setup came with a couple of thinner spacers which were placed at the top under the adjustment cap, so i placed them under the cup at the top end and this has put the pressure on the split bearing thingy and allowed adjustment... sweet

many thanks

Excellent.....Another snag I have never seen!!......well done for spotting it!!