View Full Version : Ovalized head tube repair
slowgoing
03-21-2012, 05:04 AM
I have an an old Olmo Reynolds 531 frame I'd like to build up. Problem is the top of the head tube took a hit at some point and is ovalized. To the point that a headset won't fit in at all, let alone poorly. What's the best method for getting it round again?
David Kirk
03-21-2012, 07:52 AM
can you post a photo?
Dave
slowgoing
03-21-2012, 10:31 AM
Thanks, Dave. This one shows what's going on. Its like it was rested on its headtube at some point, ovalized in one specific area.
David Kirk
03-21-2012, 10:39 AM
If I had that frame in my shop I'd take some long heavy pipe - about 1" in diameter - and put it in the head tube and pull it forward to pull the D shape out of it. The frame would need to be held secure while doing it.
Once the head tube looks round run a reamer in it and you'll be all set.
This repair is pretty common.
Dave
slowgoing
03-21-2012, 10:48 AM
Thanks, Dave. Much appreciated.
David Kirk
03-21-2012, 11:28 AM
Thanks, Dave. Much appreciated.
if you have a way to clamp the water pipe in a vice and then lever the entire frame against the pipe you'll not need to hold the bike down in some odd way.
dave
slowgoing
03-21-2012, 12:01 PM
Thanks, Dave. You saved me the purchase price of a frame rack.
Now if I can only find a cheap reamer... :D
Ken Robb
03-21-2012, 01:22 PM
It will probably make more fiscal sense to take it to a shop to be reamed. The frame, that is. :cool:
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