Re: [CR] Facing and reaming

(Example: Events:Cirque du Cyclisme:2004)

Date: Tue, 3 Nov 2009 11:10:38 -0800
From: "verktyg" <verktyg@aol.com>
To: Dmitry Yaitskov <dima@rogers.com>, <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
References: <259181072.20091103104410@rogers.com>
In-Reply-To: <259181072.20091103104410@rogers.com>
Subject: Re: [CR] Facing and reaming


Dmitry, more than you asked for but here's my procedure:

When prepping a frame I start with the dropouts - it's a good indicator of overall frame alignment. Then I check the frame and fork alignment and adjust as needed, adjusting the dropouts including the derailleur hanger.

Next I check the seat lug and spread the seatpost bolt ears if the slot in the rear is uneven. If the seat tube is out of round or bulged inside the lug, I have a tool that I drive down into the lug to round it out (a collection of old 1/2" drive sockets that I can mount on some 1/2" all-thread with nuts and large flat washers. I use a large socket as a slide hammer to remove the tool)

Afterwards I ream and hone the seat tube for smooth seatpost fit and adjustment.

I clean the BB threads and check them with some accurate cups and chase them if necessary. If the BB faces look like they have already been accurately faced off I generally don't reface them unless the cups don't sit flat. If they look like they've never been faced, I face them before messing with the threads. The BB shell is a substantial piece of metal and slight misalignment of the faces isn't going to have much of an effect. There's greater risk in damaging the starting threads with the facing tool.

I almost always reface the head tube and fork crown race seat.

Any well made frame should have already had those things done before it left the shop or factory, Many frames, even some from better name makers were never properly prepped, especially the seat tubes.

Chas. Colerich Oakland, CA USA


> When you build up an old frame, or change BB or headset - do you
> usually re-face (and in the case of headset, perhaps re-ream) the
> tubes? Or are those procedures only needed for new frames? Please
> share your experiences.