Author Topic: Flat spot in fork stem bearings  (Read 4301 times)

Offline RapidRoy

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Flat spot in fork stem bearings
« on: May 11, 2011, 11:39:21 PM »
I had the front wheel of the ground in preparation for changing the fork oil and noticed a flat spot or notch or "not sure what to call it" when turning the steering. When the wheel is turned and gets to within a few degrees of center, it wants to come back to center automatically. When you turn the steering through center you can feel the notch. It's not terribly bad, but definitely noticeable. There doesn't seem be any play otherwise to speak of. What do you think, do I need to add replacing the stem bearings to my list of front-end work I need to do?
'99 C-10

Offline George R. Young

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Re: Flat spot in fork stem bearings
« Reply #1 on: May 12, 2011, 08:10:01 AM »
Old, hard grease may give the same symptoms. I would try cleaning and re-greasing the head bearings before attempting to replace.
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Offline Sparkie

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Re: Flat spot in fork stem bearings
« Reply #2 on: May 12, 2011, 09:29:57 PM »
I have a feeling you'll be replacing the bearings. That notchiness you describe is usually the sign of over tightened bearings. Good luck, Mark