Loose headset

[djh66]

I've had my headset off and on a coulpe of times recently, then I noticed my headset wouldnt tighten up on the fork stem, inspecting the bolt I realise it had stripped the threads, this is the second time this has happened in 4 months, so I bought a A2 stainless allen head bolt M10 X 65. I tightened this up as much as I could with a big torque wrench, but still my heaset is not tight, whats going on?

[GLscoot]

have you definitely got the correct headset on. how easy is it to fit the headset onto the forks, you should have to turn it from side to side to get it on properly and are you using washers & spring washers. you should tighten the nut not the bolt, once tight then give the bolt head a turn with the socket.

I had this problem a couple of years back and just put it down to poor quality bolts.

[djh66]

have you definitely got the correct headset on. how easy is it to fit the headset onto the forks, you should have to turn it from side to side to get it on properly and are you using washers & spring washers. you should tighten the nut not the bolt, once tight then give the bolt head a turn with the socket.

I had this problem a couple of years back and just put it down to poor quality bolts.

It was fine last week, but I have had it off and back on a couple of times, when I replaced my forks, hence stripping the threads. However, having another go tonight, I'm thinking that the washers I have used maybe slightly too big in diameter and not seating flush when tightening. I have now ordered a couple more proper headset bolts with washers and I'll see if I can solve it.

[GLscoot]

I would say you have answered the problem yourself, if you are using the wrong washers & they are too big then it won't work, you will only damage the headset. the nut and bolt are generally 14mm socket.