FSA Orbit XLII headset

[zoslen]

Hi

I have an FSA Orbit XLII headset.

The upper race fits perfectly in the upper bearing (it locks inside it) but the crown race doesn't fit the same in the lower bearing, it cannot lock in the bearing.

Is it normal? (I 've never used sealed bearings before)

What exactly is the purpose of the crown race on a headset with sealed bearings?

I put the lower bearing without the crown race on the fork and it fited fine, the headset seemed OK to me, at least I didn't notice any difference.

Of course I intend to install the crown race but I am really curious : what if I don't?

The bearings are going to get damaged?
The fork will have some play?
The steering will become harder?

Zoslen (...who is really curious about crown races utility right now!)

[Danneaux]

The upper race fits perfectly in the upper bearing (it locks inside it) but the crown race doesn't fit the same in the lower bearing, it cannot lock in the bearing.

Is it normal? (I 've never used sealed bearings before)

Hi Zoslen! Yep, normal, but don't forget the lower lip seal in the bottom cup. Also, make sure the bearings are right-side up.

What exactly is the purpose of the crown race on a headset with sealed bearings?

On the Orbit XLII, the lower bearing seats on the crown race; in other words, the crown race serves to locate the bearing. Here is a diagram showing proper assembly: http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/5164/fsaorbitxliidiagram.jpg
...and links to some additional discussion here:
http://www.thorncycles.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=2636.0
http://www.thorncycles.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=2414.0
Again, don't forget the lip seal in the lower cup! It is helpful to preventing moisture and dirt entry. It can be a bit hard to see and I have seen several examples where people forget to install it. FSA advise a thin skim of grease on the lower bearing to aid in waterproofing as well.

Of course I intend to install the crown race but I am really curious : what if I don't?

If you don't...the lower race won't be located as accurately in the steerer and with vibration, could damage the steerer.

The bearings are going to get damaged?

Yes, to a degree.

The fork will have some play?

Likely, yes.

The steering will become harder?

Yep, likely.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Dan.

[Dave Whittle Thorn Workshop]

Take a look at http://thorncycles.co.uk/FAQ/FSA.pdf

Hope this helps, Dave.

[zoslen]

I installed the headset (with the crown race) and I see no problems.

Just a little blue grease coming from the bearings.

Thank you for your answers!