Headset Problem?

Bazzowmb

Over the last couple of rides in this classic wet and muddy summer I've noticed the steering on my Carrera Kraken becoming a bit stiffer and making a slight grinding noise - I'm guessing this is crud in the headset - would I be right?

Is this is a simple case of stripping it down, cleaning it out and regreasing, or am I likely to have to replace it?

If so any suggestions for the new bit of kit (I've have upgraded as I replaced earlier components - looking to up my bikes spec)?

Finally is this a job that can be done without a workstand and do I need any other specific tools?

Lots of questions I know but any help greatly appreciated. :?:

nicklouse

clean and grease is simple enough,

new headset, lots of tools needed.

have a read of parktools and then strip clean and inspect. if ok refit with grease.

if dead LBS it.

skyliner

You can strip it down and service it with out a stand, but it's a little easier with one.
Be sure to inspect the cups for pitting though, as this will mean you'll need to replace the headset. Replace the bearings anyway, as yours will be corroded and will never run smoothly. you can pick up a pair for less than a fiver (loose ball with race).
As for upgrades, budget- Cane creek S3- £30, Hope- £60, Chris Bling- £100.
They come with 1,5,and 10 year guarantees respectively, and there are plenty of options in between to suit your budget.
you'll need a rocket tool and a press to fit them though, so it may be a job for your LBS (who should face & ream the headtube when fitting to prolong the life of the new unit)

Hope this helps,
Kev.

skyliner

Beat me to it again Nick. I'll have to learn to adopt your concise, direct approach to posting.

MarvintheAndroid

"Crud" in this instance would probably mean rust, in which case the bearing tracks could be damaged. If they are not too bad, new headset bearings are cheap and may help considerably. In any case cleaning and re-greasing will buy you some time.

If the headset has sealed cartridge bearings (unlikely, i think) they can be lifted out and replaced.

Marv

[Edit]
Crossed with skyliner

nicklouse

my approach is that there are many people out there who have answered these question very well allready with pictures and long words.

I dont see a point in repeating it.

i wish there was a easily accessable web back in the early 80's/late 70's when i was learning about bikes as it would have been so much easier.

Bazzowmb

Cheers guys - I'll get to work on it one evening this week.

Skyliner don't beat yourself up for coming 2nd - more comprehensive answer, no offense Nick!

supersonic

I am sure the headset uses a cartridge bearing, though do check.

skyliner

Nick knows his stuff, and all the info is in the link . My machine is so slow though, it's quicker for me to type a response, than post a link :evil: . And a picture paints a 1000 words as they say.

skyliner

SS. I worked on a Kraken today, and it had a TH Ind. loose ball headset. They may have changed them for more recent models.

nicklouse

sonic even if it does lift the seals and have a look.

or have a look at the numbers on the side and get new.

of post up what the headset is and maybe i have a number somewhere.

Bazzowmb

Guys

It is a cartridge system (marked on the outside) so presumably I can go into Halfords, or my LBS, quote the number and get the necessary replacement cartridge bearings. Presumably this makes the job a bit easier, rather than replacing the ball bearings individually.

Keen to get it back on the road ASAP, especially as the weather's picking up.

Thanks again for the help.

MarvintheAndroid

Correct - assuming they have them, you might have to order. Job should only take 1/2 hour or so.

Refer to Park Tools for instructions.

Marv

Bazzowmb

I know I'm going on about this now but I took it all apart tonight and it was not what I was expecting.

I can see what the problem is (rusted/dirty bottom bearing - which isn't even spinning) but I don't know how to get these cartridges out and gain access to the bearings themself- do they just push into place (sorry for being such a plonker!) or is this a job for specialist tools and my LBS?

supersonic

I'd just drop it into the LBS to be on the safe side. Some bearings drop in, some are press fits.