How to remove bottom steering race?

Ok, so on my VF the steering stem bearings were the originals, and they were feeling sloppy, so I removed the top triple clamp nut, clamp, steering stem, and top race.

So I am left with the bottom race stuck in the frame. Going top-down, I can't get the end of a punch to catch the edge of the race. And there's only about 1/4" between the top of the race to the inside of the stem hole.

How can I get this race out?



Probably end up using something like this:

 

You can use the threaded rod/washer/nut set up you have in the picture as long the washer sits on at least 50% of the race, then knock it out nice 'n easy.

 

A bull point or cold chisel from the top should do the trick

 

If you lived in south FL I would lend you my race punch. Not to be confused with a racist punch. I would pull the race card if it would get me out of jury duty though :smile:

Log onto a snap off (snap on)matco tools or mac tools web site and check out the punch selection, they are specially made long punches for specifically knocking out stuborn races. They got a taper on the end and kinda long and flattish. You cants have too many tools you know.

 

Sitting in front of the stem, I thought about how Archimedes would solve it? I took a 3/4" drive ratchet bar I use for fork tree nuts that is 2' long, and a few good blows later, buh-bye Mr. race!

I'll check out mac punches as they could be handy, thanks.

 

Good deal!!! Satisfying using a hammer and chit you know :smile: Glad you used a 3/4" inch tool to do your bidding. Who the hell would have a need for such a big ugly tool other than a Bus mechanicIf you used a screwdriver as a punch, we might have had to call the screwdriver police on your arse:smile:

I got the steering head bearings waiting in my box. My bike rides so nice at over the ton, I dont want to mess with it. When you jack it up under the collectors and gently turn the bars you do feel a slight (self centering) at the center but its not noticable for the time being.

Cheers.

 

Oh, man, call them police. I did "try" a long screwdriver, but with no success luckily!