Carbon Fork Facing

Hugh A

I have just acquired a new carbon frame and fork. They are 1 1/8" integrated type and I haven't had one of these before.

The flat face of the fork at the crown has some bobbles of lacquer on it. Should I get this faced before fitting the headset? it looks like a 100% carbon fork so I'm not sure if a conventional tool would damage it.

Monty Dog

A conventional fork facing tool would be too agressive - it's designed for cutting metal and lacquer is pretty soft anyway- I'd just stick to emery paper / wet and dry.

RogerTheDodger

There is no problem using cutting/facing tools on carbon fibre.
I have done it on a number of occasions without any problem.
It’s the only way to do the job properly.
The finished quality of the facing will be determined by condition of the cutter (is it sharp?)
and the skill the operator.

With carbon you simply don't use much pressure.
So maybe add commonsense as a determining factor with regard to the end result.

Roger

Hugh A

Thanks guys - I'll have a closer look at the for crown and see if it looks flat and regular apart from the lacquer. If not I guess it's time to take it to a facing tool....