[CR]Head tube question

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Chater-Lea)

Date: Thu, 14 Dec 2000 13:16:43 +0000
From: "Ray Stedronsky" <ray@dcn.davis.ca.us>
To: Classic Rendezvous <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR]Head tube question

For all you frame builders out there, a question. I have a 92 RB-T that has been both my winter commute bike (with lights and fenders) and my summer mountain bike (with cyclocross tires and suspension stem) for the past 4 years.

Today, I noticed that the lower headset bearing race was loose inthe frame. It was an aluminium Specialized set and I thought the perhaps thesoft alloy had worn or become ovalized from the stress of off road riding. I substitued a steel Specialized headsetthat I had around and thelower bearing cup was a better fit but it still went into the frame withpressure from my hand alone. It was a difficult push but it still did notneed a press to install. I suspect now that maybe my lower lug has become ovalized or just gotten larger than spec. due to age and a hard life.

My question:

Is there a way to repair this short of removing the lower lug with a torch and brazing a new one onto the frame. Shims? Epoxy? External set screws?

I'm open for suggestions

Thanks in advance,
   Ray Stedronsky
   Davis, California (where it's a "soft" day in the valley according to my ex-brit neighbor)