Weird headset fitment older Cervelo

ebarker9

Well-Known Member
Just recently replaced the headset bearings on my 2008 Cervelo RS with an EC90 fork. According to Cervelo, "The RS uses 1-1/8" integrated bearings with 36 x 45 degree races as both upper and lower bearings". I purchased replacement Cane Creek bearings: https://www.canecreek.com/product/h...artridge-bearing-36-x-45-degree-41mm-baa1054/

They look identical to the bearings that I removed, but I have a gap between the fork and head tube and between the top cap and head tube that I don't remember before the replacement. The original lower bearing was falling apart when I removed it so I can't reassemble it to confirm, but using the original top bearing, it reassembles the same way. In particular, I don't understand how the lower bearing is sitting on the crown race. Am I crazy or is this how it should look? IMG_20190519_210713.jpgIMG_20190519_210816.jpgIMG_20190519_210651.jpgIMG_20190522_195339.jpgIMG_20190519_205840.jpg
 

Karate Monkey

Well-Known Member
Confirm that the thing you placed the bearing on isn't actually the bottom of the original bearing (as in, you removed a top part, a row of bearings, and the bottom portion).

If it isn't, have the race pulled (you need a sharpened automotive bearing puller, or take it to a shop), and replace it with the appropriate CC race (assuming here that there isn't an integrated race on the fork). The 40s have a seal on them that will help keep crap out of your frame. If the crown race seat area is carbon fiber, use a hacksaw or Dremel to slot the crown race, and install it with the split in front--keeps the rear, which needs the seal, intact.
 

ebarker9

Well-Known Member
Confirm that the thing you placed the bearing on isn't actually the bottom of the original bearing (as in, you removed a top part, a row of bearings, and the bottom portion).

If it isn't, have the race pulled (you need a sharpened automotive bearing puller, or take it to a shop), and replace it with the appropriate CC race (assuming here that there isn't an integrated race on the fork). The 40s have a seal on them that will help keep crap out of your frame. If the crown race seat area is carbon fiber, use a hacksaw or Dremel to slot the crown race, and install it with the split in front--keeps the rear, which needs the seal, intact.

You know, I bet you're right. There is a fair chance that the bearing is sitting on part of the original bearing or the race needs to be replaced with a cc item. Very helpful suggestions, thank you. I have a pretty wide assortment of bearing pullers so bet that I could modify one if necessary. I'll take another look this evening.
 

ebarker9

Well-Known Member
Looks like just the (slightly rusted) crown race to me. Bearing definitely seems to be sitting high to me. Guess it would be worth trying a cc crown race?IMG_20190523_180952.jpgIMG_20190523_180919.jpg
 

Karate Monkey

Well-Known Member
They tend to be a bit lower, but not by much. I would call Cervelo and confirm the height of the bearing. It's uncommon, but they do change.
 

ebarker9

Well-Known Member
Cervelo's response was the following:

"These bearings look a bit tall, Bearings can be available in different heights, cane creek specifically. The bike was spec'd with an FSA headset, whose bearings are not sold with height as a third dimensional option. Aesthetically these gaps are not ideal, regarding the stability of the installation, I would have this inspected in person by a Cervélo retailer."

When I got the frame originally the bearings were marked "Tange Seiki". So I kind of have no idea at this point. Suppose it could be worth bringing to a shop. Just trying to get a bit more life out of this bike before my new bike arrives.
 

Karate Monkey

Well-Known Member
Tange Sekai is a respected manufacturer of bearings. No problem there--bike shops can buy "FSA" bearings from QBP.
 
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