Branford Bike Online Catalog - Archival Edition
 brought to you by the former owner of Branford Bike, Tim Brockett via his personal web site, TimsLife.Com
This is an archival edition of the Branford Bike web site from February 2006. Complete with product photos, prices, how to articles and technical specifications it is a treasure trove of accurate, detailed and historical information. Most of the products are no longer available but if you see something you would like, please contact the new owner of Branford Bike, Rodd Wagner via info@branfordbike.com.

Branford Bike was a huge part of my life for over 30 years. I enjoyed those years tremendously and Branford Bike was often a labor of love. I hope you enjoy browsing through the archival catalog. If your visit brings back pleasant memories please share them with me via e-mail at timbrockett@gmail.com.
Enjoy!
Tim Brockett

The incinerated remains of Branford Bike after the 2006 Big Creek forest fire.
The landscape, house, shop and inventory were completely destroyed by the flames.
 
Branford Bike - Started in June, 1976 Branford Bike
129 Sagittarius Skyway, PO Box 1711, Emigrant, MT 59027 USA
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Headset, Seat Posts and Pedals Section: Page 17

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- Fork Crown Cutting Tips -

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Fork Crown Cutting Tips
 
 
Level of Difficulty  
Fork Crown Cutting

Typical Tools and Supplies Needed

This article will discuss the machining of the fork.

See also related articles:
Press Fit Fork Crown Races

The fork crown race is seated onto the fork crown. Generally this is press fit, with the inside diameter of the crown race being smaller than the fork crown. To determine the fit, measure both the inside diameter of the fork crown race and the outside diameter of the fork crown. A difference between 0.05mm to 0.15mm is generally considered acceptable. Differences less than 0.05 may be a weak fit and may come loose during use. A strong bearing compound is recommend in weak fits. Differences greater that 0.15mm may damage the fork crown race as it is press onto the fork crown. The fork crown may be machined for correct size with the CRC-1.

 

The cutting process can take a long time if the crown race must be resized. As an example, when reducing the JIS standard of 27.1mm fork crown size down to 26.4mm crown race size it is necessary to remove 0.7mm material. The cutter of the CRC-1 uses the inside edge to machine the correct diameter as it passes down the steering column.

Fork Crown Race Facing

In addition to a correct press fit, the flat seat of the crown race must be square to the steering column. The headset fork crown race will be pressed on the crown race and will reference the seat for bearing alignment. Without correct bearing alignment, the headset bearings may bind as it is rotated side to side.

The paint on the fork may be used as a marker to track facing. A fresh cut should be seen completely around the crown. Additionally, the cut should be as wide as practical. Fork crown races tend to seat on their outer edge. This crown below shows incomplete facing. Black mark shows a low area, which would cause bearing to seat mis aligned relative to the steering column.

 

The Park Tool CRC-1 Crown Race Cutter will both size the crown race and machine the crown race seat. The CRC-1 comes with two cutters. One cutter is double sided, with 26.5mm and 27.1mm for one-inch forks. The CRC-1 also includes a 30.1mm cutter for 1-1/8-inch forks. The CRC-1 uses centering collets to help guide the cutter accurately over the crown race. These collets can be adjusted while the tool is on the fork.

It is necessary to hold the fork while cutting the crown. It is possible to use wood over the jaws of a vise while holding the fork. Alternatively, clamp a front wheel in the fork and stand over the fork while cutting. Protect the tire while cutting with a rag.
Fork Crown Cutting Procedures

  1. Determine the correct cutter and install cutter. If in doubt about the size, use a caliper and measure the inside diameter.
  2. Install the correct size collet. One-inch forks use the black collet. 1-1/8-inch forks use the blue collet. Leave adjustment collet cap loose.
  3. Tighten collet cap to remove play from the CRC-1 body.
  4. Lubricate cutting area with CF-1.
  5. Turn CRC-1 CLOCKWISE only. Apply downward pressure while turning.
  6. Continue to turn until the CRC-1 contacts the crown race seat. Turn 2-3 turns at this point.
  7. Loosen collet cap and pull tool upward to check progress. The crown race seat needs to have a fresh cut completely around the fork.
  8. Clean fork and clean cutting tool. NOTE: Never use compressed air to clean metal chips.

      NOTE: All cutting tools will eventually require re-sharpening. With use, the cutting edge will dull. While there are many variables that play a role in how long a cutting tool will stay sharp (e.g. technique used, amount and type of lubrication used, type of material being machined, etc.), in general, have the tool re-sharpened once every 50 to 75 cuttings
    Information and photos are courtesy of Park Tool.
    Visit their site at Park Tool.Com
     
     
     
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    At Branford Bike we want you to be happy and satisfied with everything you purchase from us. We understand that sometimes you will need to return a product because it was not quite what you wanted. You may return anything you purchase from us within 60 days and unused, for an immediate exchange or refund.
     
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    Page 16
    Frame Reaming and Facing Tips
    Headsets
    Table of Contents
    Branford Bike Catalog
    Main Table of Contents
    Page 18
    Fork Column Cutting Tips
    Branford Bike Catalog Index
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