At 10:57 AM 23/01/2007 -0800, Chuck Schmidt wrote:
>I would think a crush washer would require much more force than could
>be generated by an aluminum alloy headset nut, but then I'm no
>engineer. However the instructions make no mention of replacement
>when servicing the headset.
You're right on. It's most definitely not a "crush washer". (A crush sleeve is used in a car rear axle to set the pinion clearance.) As I mentioned in an earlier message, I think one purpose of the washer (keyed or not) is to provide some elasticity when tightening the locknut. The thicker washer would work better for this. As for requiring a 2mm longer steerer, if it's near the maximum with the thinner steel washer, maybe there's enough thread engagement with the thicker aluminum one not to matter.
John Betmanis
Woodstock, Ontario
Canada