Re: Headset cheap fix - works

A Muzi <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes:


>>> I have a very old headset from someone else's bike that i'm interested
>>> in trying to restore (rather than discard).
>-snip-

>> it's not perfect, but remember seeing something on andy muzi's site about
>> his refinishing bearing races for customers with hard to replace
>> components.  imo, that is your "least bad" technical solution.  other
>> than being content with keeping it "as-is" and viewing it as an
>> interesting museum piece.

1.  What do we think is the primary cause of indexing with 1" headsets --

   a.  faulty materials (e.g. non uniform steel alloys)
   b.  improper hardening of races (quenching or whatever is used) if so
        is the hardening just on the surface or at depth in the races?
   c.  flexy steering tubes
   d.  improper lubrication practices
   e.  too much straight-ahead downhill riding / coasting + vibrations
   f.  crashes (my own experiences indicate crashes are not a problem)

2.  It's a given that a bigger headset and different bearings can
    reduce or delay the indexing problem.  
   
3.  If the problem is just (c), (d), or (e), can Andrew Muzi's headset
    cutting tools be used to refinish bearing races ??

- Don Gillies
San Diego, CA