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Before I do any more damage I’m walking away…
And I did service my fork not that long ago!
Can’t think what I did or didn’t do as I’ve moved the fork in and out of frames multiple times.
Now I’m trying to get the fork out to put on another frame and the Hope headset is well and truly welded on. I’ve managed to get as far down as the split ring, but that is really seized. Soaked overnight in vinegar. More in there now. Multiple hammers have been employed, next step I’m thinking maybe a g-clamp with wood blocks.
Any genius tips? Other than an even bigger hammer.
push it back in again to free the taper ring
I don’t think it’s moved down at all to be able to be pushed back in 😟
pick the split ring out then. Hammering it just tightens it
It’s seized. Welded to the steerer.
Can you try and rotate the split ring to free it up - screw driver against one side of the split and tap it with a hammer?
Not with any success yet
If it's the crown race that's corroded onto the fork then It's knackered. I'd be looking to gently cut and prise it off.
Just buy a new crown race to replace the knackered one..
It sounds like it's the upper headset split ring wedge that's corroded to the forks steerer keeping it all snug and resisting movement.
I'd try a proper penetrating oil designed for unseizing metals as opposed to vinegar (not WD40 either), or diesel. Leave it overnight and pick at the wedges split again with a sharp pointy pick thing.
Good luck!
Yep. That’s what it was. Centre punch to break up the ring did it in the end.