Taper roller headstock bearings

You can use the standard Commando head stock bearings as they fit in and they are so much better than the cup and cone type. I have done this on all my featherbed frames, and they are also a good up grade for the G15, N15, AJS 33 AMC duplex frames.

Don't you need a spacer on the steering stem with the Commando type bearings as they're non-adjustable? I agree they're a better solution that either cup & cone or taper rollers.

Fitted taper bearings 25 years ago ,regularly spray in the gap with spray grease .Still fine never need adjusting.

The question was not answered regarding use of commando bearings in a featherbed frame - is a spacer required?

I'm thinking of going this route with my slimline featherbed.

Best regards,

Chas

This works in a similar way to the spacer between the hub bearings by ensuring that the inner races are very slightly further apart than the inner sides of the outer races so there's no end force on the balls (although of course there is on the bottom bearing in the Commando steering head setup). So I do think it's necessary. You could calculate the length by measuring carefully between the outer race abutments and making the spacer a few thou longer. I don't think the length would be absolutely critical as the top bearing is only coping with sideways forces - unless you make a habit of doing wheelies.....

When I bought my second Commando some previous owner had actually replaced the originals with taper rollers for some inexplicable reason. It worked much better once I'd installed the correct version.

Thanks Ian, just what I needed to know.

Best regards,

Chas

RGM sell the spacer tube part 100006. £5.90. Not worth making your own.

That would be the right length for a Commando. Featherbed is probably different......

RGM appear to sell two types. 100006 for the Dommie and another for Commando. Look up 'spacers' and they are both on page 4.

looks perfect David. As you say, if they're available, why make one? I had a plunger bearer bar made for my ES2 then discovered RGM had them - I hadn't even looked. However, the one I had made was cheaper and made out of excellent quality HT steel so probably a better item.

With respect to taper rollers, there is of course no need for one - indeed nowhere to put it.

My PO fitted taper rollers so they stay. I don't know if he changed the frame but they seem to fit. Just don't do as I did and over tighten. Rollers can (maybe should?) normally be preloaded. I left mine too tight although it did not feel like it, but it badly affected handling until they were backed off a bit.