Headset crown race too small?

fuzzdog

Hello
I have been trying to fit the crown race from a neco integrated headset to my carbon forks. The forks are from a carbon zone FM028 and the headset is the one that came supplied with it. The crown race wouldn't fit. So after reading various forums on the subject I decided to cut it with a hacksaw. Now it fits fine. There is a gap of about 1.5mm where I cut it and I can't help thinking that even with specialist tools that it would never have fitted.
Now that it is on can an expert tell me if that will be okay. it is tight on the forks. I could move it round if I really had to but it seems secure.
With such a gap where the cut is would that ever have gone on without damaging the forks.

Look forward to your replies.
Thanks

nicklouse

should have taken it so someone who can.

yes crown races are interferance fits and do need quite some force to fit.

as long as there are no moving parts incontact with the race you should be fine.

sharp edges incontact with carbon is a no no though smooth them off or get the whole lot relaced by someone who can.

fuzzdog

Okay. Thanks for the fast reply.
So you think specialist would really be able to get that on if it was so tight? How do they do that without damage?

Also. If I were to replace it would I need a whole new headset or could I get just a new crown race put on?

nicklouse

they use the correct tool



you may be able to get a new one to work with it.

or the LBS might have some old ones that will work.

fuzzdog

Thanks very much. Appreciate it.

sungod

what nicklouse says

re the 1.5mm gap, bear in mind that the hacksaw probably chewed away most of this

fuzzdog

Ah. yes. good point. I hadn't thought of that. I am reassured.
Cheers