Hey guys.
After about 10+ years oft mountainbiking I got myself a gravelbike last winter and I am struggling to properly mount the stem on the cf steerer tube ever since. Whenever i hit some “rough terrain” the stem works its way up on the steerer tube causing play in the steerer bearing.
Long story short, this is what I’ve tried so far:
-) putting carbon mounting paste on the steerer tube (inside and outside) to increase the friction
-) upgrading to a bigger expander ( which fully supports the steerer tube throught the entire height of the stem) so I can tighten the stem screws beyond the manufacturer torque without damaging the steerer tube.
-) after adjusting the steerer bearing with the top cap, I removed the top cap again and increased the torque of the expander and the stem screws in an alternating manner.
Are there any other secrets to mount the stem properly or did I just end up in an unlucky material combination between the stem and the steerer tube which will just not lock in?
I know it’s quite and old topic that was already discussed many times, but I’ve already tried most of the recommendations I could find online and i am bit desperate by now. So I thought it’s worth giving it a shot here.
by HolyHorst
2 Comments
Clean off the carbon paste. Are you using a good torque wrench? If not, definitely get one and then use it. If you are, make sure it’s calibrated.
i would absolutely not try to use carbon gripper paste on any steering tube, regardless its material. the shit tends to trickle down the tube.
if you headset constantly develops play, even with correct torque (btw the bolts should be greased) verify your bike’s headtube is properly reamed and faced, before installing cups or bearings.