Fork removal advice needed

[T4tomo]

So I'm in process of removing the forks, the headset looks as below. Having removed stem and spacers, you tube would have you believe, the forks drop out, or may need a pursuing tap with a mallet. However mine have another retaining thingy above the headset. The centre bit of it is a rubber seal and below that is what I assume is the centering clip / washer just above the top headset bearing

So do I just whack it with a mallet or do I somehow need to get the top piece with the writing on it off first??

The frame is about 15 years old I think, and this is first time I have removed any forks. Any knowledgeable advice appreciated

cheers.

 

[T4tomo]

hoof for the lunchtime crew - any ideas?

 

[fossyant]

Remove what you can, and tap it down. You usually have a pre-load washer in there too.

 

[geocycle]

Remove what you can, and tap it down. You usually have a pre-load washer in there too.

That’s what I do. Just keep all the bits in order and orientation.

 

[fossyant]

Take photos

 

[T4tomo]

Indeed, I have done, and the stack of spacers etc is all piled up in order in a bag, other removed components in separate bags etc.

I'm off too buy a rubber mallet from Screwfix. I think the rubber seal / washer bit can come off before I get tapping, and may allow me to ping the centering / pre load washer out

 

[fossyant]

Indeed, I have done, and the stack of spacers etc is all piled up in order in a bag, other removed components in separate bags etc.

I'm off too buy a rubber mallet from Screwfix. I think the rubber seal / washer bit can come off before I get tapping, and may allow me to ping the centering / pre load washer out

Normal hammer and a piece of wood !

 

[T4tomo]

Normal hammer and a piece of wood !

I'm a professional I'll have you know, besides its one less thing to hold

 

[DCBassman]

I've just dobe this job, much complicated by a certain amount of seizure between alloy spacers and whatnot, and the steel steerer. Much soaking, and some very ungentle rubber mallet action!

 

[Venod]

I'm a professional I'll have you know, besides its one less thing to hold

Turn the frame upside down and whack the end of the fork down on a piece of wood.

 

[fossyant]

I'm a professional I'll have you know, besides its one less thing to hold

Have you done it yet?

 

[T4tomo]

Have you done it yet?

Some of us work for a living!

Re @DCBassman make apply a bit of GT85 then.

I'm liking the @Venod tip too.
No idea why bold has come on.
Also waiting to give blood.

 

[fossyant]

Some of us work for a living!

Re @DCBassman make apply a bit of GT85 then.

I'm liking the @Venod tip too.
No idea why bold has come on.
Also waiting to give blood.

You've had time to go to Screwfix. 👅

 

[DCBassman]

Re @DCBassman make apply a bit of GT85 then.

I didn't apply a bit of GT85. I applied a LOT!

 

[T4tomo]

You've had time to go to Screwfix. 👅

Just been on way back from blood donor-ing. Will have a go tonight when I'm back, although light could be an issue. The OH wont be happy with me squirting GT85 in the lounge.