Headsets...

gtitim

How do you know when it's time to change your headset? Also, how tricky is it to do this?

spanielsson

Have a look at this: http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=65

You do need specialist tools, if you are asking how I'm guessing you don't have them.

Your LBS is the place to visit, they will advise if the jobs needs doing, also they should have all of the kit to do the job.

Al_38

depends on what type it is. Most of the time i leave sealed ones untill they start feeling a bit rough or sticky and then change the bearings / repack and clean it all. With an unsealed headset I tend to do it the same as i do unsealed hubs and bb - every couple of months - only needs a re-grease and clean etc. Unless you really really shag the headset - run it loose or similar in which case the bearing surfaces will get pitted and damaged personally i wouldnt bother changing it.

As to changing it? Bit of a pain in all honesty. Getting them out is okay. Just need a fairly blunt screwdriver and a hammer / mallet and go gently to get the cups out the frame and the crown race off.
Getting a new one in can be a chore. Ideally you need a headset press to put the cups into the frame. Can make your own but it is vitally important that the cups go in exactly aligned or the headset will wear very quickly. Also getting the crown race onto the forks can be tricky - I have used a big ring spanner before or an old piece of pipe but you have to be v. careful not to damage the bearing surfaces in the process. I am quite happy putting a headset in a bike i dont much care about, but for anything nice would much rather go down to my lbs and do it / get them to fit it for me with all the proper tools.

Monty Dog

Depends on the type of headset, but if you have to replace the cups, get your LBS to do it if you don't have the know-how or tools - get it wrong and you can wreck a frame.

gtitim

OK cheers guys. It does feel a bit rough so I think I'll take it down to my lbs. Thanks for the advice (as ever)

gtitim

On that note, is it worth spending a lot on a decent headset, will it make a difference to ride quality or just durability? The bike is a bianchi (about 4 years old) with DA kit. I intend to get a new bike next year (wedding + credit crunch is not a bike friendly combo), so if it's just added durability then I don't much see the point in paying extra.

Thanks again for your help.

ride_whenever

Just use a basic one with sealed cartridge bearings. then you can go to your local bearing shop and buy some replacements for a fraction of the cost in future.