Bar installation tips?

[PhatMatt]

I have a great stem that I want to continue using. What I don't want is to scratch the heck outta my new bars like I did when I put the last pair on. This is of course a stem without a removable faceplate. Any helpful hints for getting the bar through the hole without scratches?

Thx.

[thwart]

If you can reverse thread in the bolt with a couple of pennies wedged in the stem opening (using the bolt to push against the coins and therefore open the area further), that works really well.

If not, I've used a wood wedge (carved from oak or some harder wood) pushed into the opening while I mount the bars. A screwdriver will obviously work also, although it can leave gouges in the aluminum stem.

[William]

maybe wrap them in electrical or athletic tape around the scratch prone areas? Remove when mounted.





William

[PhatMatt]

2 great ideas especially if used in tandem. Thanks very much!