2013 specialized allez race smartweld headset
 

Hello everyone i currently own a 2013 specialized allez race smartweld that i had purchased second hand. My headset sounds a bit gritty and id like to replace the top and bottom bearings. do I have to replace the whole entire headset with the race? can I just replace the bearings? and if so where can i find them because i cannot find them anywhere. any input would be greatly appreciated.:)

Just read the markings in the bearings and replace accordingly... in short... yes you can do what you thought.

Check out prices, because sometimes is cheaper to get the whole headset than only the bearings.

Sometimes the 'S' does some odd stuff, so look attentively.
But yeah- you can probably do this, check prices.

So I found these on the SBC manuals, the only thing is that i cannot find these at all online. I cant find an exact fit:confused:

upper bearing type: ACB 418H8FM 41.8*8*45D Eco
vendor PN: TEX-5BR418H8FM
lower bearing type: ACB 49*7*37*45D Eco
vendor PN: TEX-3801E

This will help:
http://www.canecreek.com/resources/p...tion-guide.pdf

Failing that, talk to a Specialized dealer.

Failing that, look for a 4 digit number to help identify, like 6002 or 6805.

Failing that, just take the bike to LBS and pay them to figure it out and order you the bearings.

thanks for the input everyone. i stumbled across this video and will try this. if not ill just get the bike shop to locate bearings and install for me.:)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buy80Fj-Afg

Wow, seen weird numbers and those ones :D

First, take the bearings out and see if they feel gritty when turned in your hand..if not, take one of the seals off with a knife blade, grease in there, seal back on. Then lotsa grease on the shelves where the bearings live, also on the fork crown race and replace all..

If the bearings are adios, any decent bike shop should have them...like mentioned, should say what they are on the edge.

Well from the numbers you can make up that the thing is 1 1/8 apparently, something like 30.6x41.8x8 mm... my best guess is that the 45D means double 45 degrees angles (internal and external), big chance a regular campagnolo specs will fit just fine.

It's the same as the Tarmac SL4 headset, if that helps you find one.