springer fork help

[mikek]

Hi! Being new to rat rod construction, I have run into a problem. Bought an after market springer fork with a steerer tube that is a bit too long for my head tube. If I cut the steerer tube down to size the plate that fits over the steerer tube ( the part that attaches to the spring) will be at the wrong angle. Can I bend the plate to make it fit? I am concerned that the plate will break. Perhaps if I heated it? Couldn't find my camera. I hope my description is understandable.

 

[user 135]

How much do you have to cut it? Under 1/2" you could probably get away by just forcing the fit.

what frame do you have. They should fit most schwinns.

 

[SkidMark]

You could make a spacer out of a piece of 1-1/8"frame tube. Or you could get a spacer from a threadless headset. No cutting and it will take up the space and maintain whatever angle you need for the bolt to fit.

 

[Anonymous]

This is how I handled it with the Zoot Suit Riot bike with no cutting.

4th pic down.

viewtopic.php?f=10&t=5380

 

[mikek]

Thanks for the tips, gentlemen. I will try some spacers.