Steering Stem and Adjustment Rings don't fit quite right

JAI · Post by **JAI** » Mon Oct 15, 2018 7:29 pm

I am rebuilding a 1966 CA78. I have begun reassembling the steering stem, front fork and frame. The front fork went together fine, and I attached the triple tree after replacing the top and bottom races and ball bearings. I had to order a replacement fork bridge plate, 53231-271-000 as I lost the original. When I bolted the bridge plate on, everything looked aligned, and the steering moved as expected. My issue is that the rings with the largest fork that fits over the steering stem, does not quite reach the metal finger that protrudes upwards from the frame. It did reach before I disassembled it. Everything seems to fit well, so I was wondering if perhaps this isn't the correct bridge plate??? My frame is CA78 1020231. According to the parts manual, this should be the correct plate. Anything else I'm missing??? I have attached a link to some photos that show the situation. I am new and not sure how to upload pictures, but the link should work. Thanks for your help!!!

https://www.flickr.com/gp/167480784@N04/95HX53

rrietman · Post by **rrietman** » Mon Oct 15, 2018 10:45 pm

you don't have the bearing races fully seated. makes the whole assembly longer. take it apart, find a socket that fits and hit it until it fells solid. you will know, it sounds different.
Good luck
Randy

JAI · Post by **JAI** » Sat Oct 27, 2018 8:52 pm

Thanks Randy. That was the problem!

rrietman · Post by **rrietman** » Sat Oct 27, 2018 10:53 pm

Yes, we have all had problems installing OE races in 50 year old frames. interestingly I have not found updated bearings to fit dreams. CB'S,CL'S no problem, but to find tapered rollers for the dream seems impossible. anybody have any leads?
Thanks
Randy

Muddy · Post by **Muddy** » Mon Oct 29, 2018 4:13 am

Just from memory, isn't the ball race half welded into the upper and lower neck of the frame on the Dream to accommodate the loose ball bearings? That might make installing a new tapered roller or ball bearing assembly a little complex.