[CR]Frozen stem

(Example: Framebuilders)

Date: Thu, 03 Jul 2003 05:11:39 -0700
From: "Dennis Young" <mail@woodworkingboy.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <CATFOODz8zE6cCwMVYQ00000ab9@catfood.nt.phred.org>
Subject: [CR]Frozen stem

and if this doesn't work, or Steve's tip, or liquid wrench, I'd suggest trying heat. Heat temporarily expands the metal and will loosen a rust hold. If the headtube isn't too long, a fine pointed flame from a torch directed onto the lower part of the stem from the fork underside might accomplish the task. It might be a trick to not fry the paint on the head tube. Maybe wrapping it with a cold wet towel may help. Instead of cooking the stem, try alternating relatively short bursts of heat with tapping from above and then trying to wrench the thing loose. Let it cool a bit before trying to loosen it. Small gas torches with disposable cartridges that are available at hardware stores are handy to use. If a frame maker at the list can think of a reason why this is a dumb idea, I stand corrected. I relate this method since it has worked on frozen bottom brackets. Be careful of too much heat!

Dennis Young Hotaka, Japan


> Jimmy Thompsen (who has a fabulous Hetchins collection) has asked me to
> forward this...
>
>
> << ......about the man who cannot get his extension out of the steering tube,
> tell him to turn his frame upside down and pour PEPSI COLA down the steering
> tube and let it soak for about an hour.... it should help free any corrosion
> and allow the parts to separate.
>
> Good Luck
> Jimmy.T. >>