- Joined
- Sep 15, 2020
- Messages
- 396
I am into the steering stem on my '66 N15CS. I bought a set of yokes from eBay and they fit fine, I checked the numbers and got what seems the original even though they were listed as early Commando. The number was correct from what I found in parts diagrams.
I have taken out the ball races from the frame, and while not perfect, they seem pretty decent. The surface is a bit discolored but feels smooth to the touch. Maybe someone will say they are no good. The races from the yokes are better, at least in appearance. Below is a picture.
My question: Is it best to replace these with the tapered roller bearings (30205 per the threads I've read) now, or is it fine to put the loose balls in as per stock. I have read up on the subject a bit, and can understand the advantages on axial load that tapered bearings provide. They aren't that expensive either, I'm just wondering if putting new ball bearings in will also be OK?
If this is a problem area I understand that improvement is best to do while it's apart. I recently did my '73 Honda CB750 with tapered bearings and had to make a spacer due to the tapered bearings sitting a bit proud, making the fit of the headlight 'ears' not tight. It seems this may be the same issue on the Norton, similar situation it seems.
The spacer under the bottom of the lower yoke's race is deformed so I should replace that but maybe with tapered there's no need for the spacer?
I may be using incorrect terms, but hopefully the gist of it comes through.
I have taken out the ball races from the frame, and while not perfect, they seem pretty decent. The surface is a bit discolored but feels smooth to the touch. Maybe someone will say they are no good. The races from the yokes are better, at least in appearance. Below is a picture.
My question: Is it best to replace these with the tapered roller bearings (30205 per the threads I've read) now, or is it fine to put the loose balls in as per stock. I have read up on the subject a bit, and can understand the advantages on axial load that tapered bearings provide. They aren't that expensive either, I'm just wondering if putting new ball bearings in will also be OK?
If this is a problem area I understand that improvement is best to do while it's apart. I recently did my '73 Honda CB750 with tapered bearings and had to make a spacer due to the tapered bearings sitting a bit proud, making the fit of the headlight 'ears' not tight. It seems this may be the same issue on the Norton, similar situation it seems.
The spacer under the bottom of the lower yoke's race is deformed so I should replace that but maybe with tapered there's no need for the spacer?
I may be using incorrect terms, but hopefully the gist of it comes through.
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