Greasing the headset, things to look out for

[Kookas]

I think that the click I'm getting from my bike is down to a slightly dry headset, after leaving it in the rain at college. I want to take it apart and grease it, but I want to know exactly what I need to do (and avoid) so I don't do irreparable damage to the bearings. It's a modern entry-level road bike, so I guess cartridge bearings.

 

[MrGrumpy]

If it's defo clicking it might be damaged beyond. If its an Allen key fitting then it's quite easy to take apart. Two bearings top and bottom with a spring like centre ring which holds the steerer central. If they are rough you might need to replace regardless. If unsure search YouTube for video's I find these tutorials great.

 

[accountantpete]

Clicks could be from anywhere but it's a good idea to gain experience in taking the headset apart and it is very easy anyway.

Take stem off.

Remove Top Cap (slides off)

Remove Compression ring (slides out)

Remove top bearing (easily pulls out)

Pull forks away to reveal bottom bearing.

Also just check that the steerer isn't worn where it contacts the compression ring - as this sometimes causes clicks.

 

[Kookas]

Did it the other day, but realised
it's the sort of job that really doesn't work without a work stand. So didn't actually take it apart fully.

 

[Globalti]

Take it all apart, making sure you line up all the bits in the order they came off. Have a look at this video my son and I made a few weeks ago:


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buy80Fj-Afg

 

[Brommyboy]

If replacing the bearings, discard the caged balls, and get a new set of the same size loose balls. There are usually 25 to a cup. Having greased the ball race, you then fill the cup to leave room for two balls (or 1.5). This will outlast any replacement caged balls and avoid the cage from being ground down into paste! It will also prevent the development of 'self-steering' which occurs to there being insufficient balls in the cage.