Oddly, the steerer is not slotted for a keyed washer as is usually the case with English steerers, but flatted on one side like on French steerers. I've seen this before on British bikes, and I think it was fairly common on them. Furthermore, the steerer doesn't look like it was flatted on a machine, but roughly with a hand file. This seems odd on a top model like the Raleigh Pro, but this is rather in keeping with the Raleigh reputation.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
Houston, TX
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "jerrymoos" <jerrymoos@sbcglobal.net>
>
> > Speaking of headset recommendations, what is the list's experience with
> > using Italian headsets on an English steerer?............The HS
> > doesn't want to thread onto the original fork easily, and I hate to
force
> > it, but maybe I just need to clear the steerer threads. Any advise?
> >
>
> If you know anyone or shop with a Campy tool kit, there is a nice steerer
> thread chaser/go-nogo gauge that is great for cleaning and smoothing some
> rough spots. Chase with some oil. Is there a keyed spacer slot? These are
> commonly rough or boogered along the edges and can cause binding.
>
> At the least you can look for deformed threads or rough spots and clean up
> with a thread file, and go over all the threads with a wire brush wheel on
a
> bench grinder. Again, oil the threads before HS installation.
>
> Jon Schaer
> Columbus, OH