Raleigh fork will have the unique threading but the cups should fit.
SWB0 1948 Triumph
- Thread starter twojs.bike
- Start date
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I can get that style forks over here fairly easily, but I don't see any of the older style forks for sale in the states.
Upon further review, I now think the fork is probably useable. You have a good fork with the red one also, never hurts to have extra bike stuff.
I think you are right. I've never seen that on an English fork, I don't think they would use two parts to make a fork tube at the factory. I think it bent right at that spot because the handlebar stem held it rigid where it sat in the fork.
Upon further review, I now think the fork is probably useable. You have a good fork with the red one also, never hurts to have extra bike stuff.
I've actually seen it before but your fingers down in the tube and see if you can feel a clean joint our weild on the inside. Triumph was a lower English brand compared to others. It's a 1948 bike made it 70 years if it's factory odds are it's not going to break
I honestly don’t think it is going to break.
However, I got the replacement fork and am trying to make it work.
Side by side they look close enough. The steerer tube needs to be trimmed.
This is my new challenge! The threads need to be extended. Normal 1in forks are threaded 24tpi. Raleigh has the unusual 26tpi
Do you think the second(less expensive) die would work? I do, but I have never used a threading die.
I hate to buy an expensive tool I may only use once. I can ask around a few local shops.
Then again, I do like buying tools.
Good news. Looks like the Raleigh headset will be mix and match compatible with the triumph.
Pressure is on. We have about 4-5weeks left.
However, I got the replacement fork and am trying to make it work.
Side by side they look close enough. The steerer tube needs to be trimmed.
This is my new challenge! The threads need to be extended. Normal 1in forks are threaded 24tpi. Raleigh has the unusual 26tpi
Do you think the second(less expensive) die would work? I do, but I have never used a threading die.
I hate to buy an expensive tool I may only use once. I can ask around a few local shops.
Then again, I do like buying tools.
Good news. Looks like the Raleigh headset will be mix and match compatible with the triumph.
Pressure is on. We have about 4-5weeks left.
I bought a cheap die off eBay ($10?) for doing 24tpi forks and it works ok. I think you might be ok with the budget one for this project.
Ok. I ordered the inexpensive carbon steel die and die stock. It is shipping from London to the states.
10 days later and I’m still waiting for this die.
In other news, I am picking up a beautiful late 60s early 70s Raleigh Sports on Thursday. I don’t have a picture as the seller took down the ad for me. I am super excited.
In other news, I am picking up a beautiful late 60s early 70s Raleigh Sports on Thursday. I don’t have a picture as the seller took down the ad for me. I am super excited.
Finally making progress again. The die arrived and worked beautifully.
Maybe I should have painted the fork black while I was waiting. Maybe I will leave it red. Might add to the character. (Or maybe I am just running out of time)
Maybe I should have painted the fork black while I was waiting. Maybe I will leave it red. Might add to the character. (Or maybe I am just running out of time)
Perfect, and the die already paid for itself. 
Here is my next problem! I sent this video to a retired frame builder that lives close by to see if he could help. I’m open to any suggestions. It’s hard to explain, thus the video.
I would have that other lower race machined to fit that upper cup and braze it in place
I think that is my best bet. It’s a matter of finding someone capable and willing to help.
Minor update. The retired frame builder responded. He said the upper bearing insert was loose by design. He highly recommends against welding or brazing it in place. He said it was likely designed like that to help out with alignment issues.
He did agree to look at it with me and help find a solution. He has a full machine shop at his house. So, if we need to modify a part, he is the man to help.
He did agree to look at it with me and help find a solution. He has a full machine shop at his house. So, if we need to modify a part, he is the man to help.
Are you going to bring him some "milk and cookies"? 
Unfortunately this is a Did Not Finish. My frame builder friend still has the frame at his shop. He is very interested in the project and has some ideas about modifying the headset. We are just out of time.
I will post an update when the bike is complete.
Thanks for following along and congratulations to all that finished!
I will post an update when the bike is complete.
Thanks for following along and congratulations to all that finished!
Looking forward to seeing the finished project!
Hey, sometimes it's better to miss a deadline and finish a bike right than to rush it for the sake of the build-off. Sounds like you got a plan to do this Triumph right! Looking forward to seeing what you do!
