[CR]fork compromised?

(Example: Events:Eroica)

Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001 10:35:37 -0600
From: "Ron Cooley" <cooleyr@duke.usask.ca>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Organization: University of Saskatchewan
Subject: [CR]fork compromised?

Hi Gang

I just pulled the fork from the Falcon I'm restoring, and discovered that the tab on the back of the brake cable hanger has worn away quite a but of material in the threaded section of the steerer tube. Specifically there's a smooth patch about 1 cm by 5 mm where the threads are completely worn away. What I'm wondering is how seriously this undermines the fork? I realize it's important to make sure the stem expander doesn't press against the weakened section, but if I use a stem with a cone-type expander (no localized pressure point) and keep it well inserted (no problem since the frame is on the large side for me) will it be OK? Or should I just bite the bullet and have the steerer replaced when I get the frame painted?

Ron Cooley