Ratcatcher - Broken mono front fork

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   Dear Sir/Madam

I have just acquired a Ratcatcher that needs a little TLC to get it back up and running.  The front mono fork tube has fractured at the top lug underneath the steering column.  My thoughts are to either replace the whole tube and re-glue to the lugs top and bottom or second option which might be quicker/easier would be to weld the old tube to the lug.  What is the best option and where could I get a suitable aluminium tube that will do the job?
Second point, one of the rear wheel bearings, in the lug at the back of the bike is grinding and needs replacing I believe.  Does anyone know where to get them from?

Many thanks & Regards

Daniel Vinson

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danielv Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Visitor (new) Joined: 27 February 2017 Location: Windsor Status: Offline Points: 13	Post Options Post Reply Quote danielv Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Topic: Ratcatcher - Broken mono front fork Posted: 26 March 2018 at 1:59pm
	Dear Sir/Madam I have just acquired a Ratcatcher that needs a little TLC to get it back up and running. The front mono fork tube has fractured at the top lug underneath the steering column. My thoughts are to either replace the whole tube and re-glue to the lugs top and bottom or second option which might be quicker/easier would be to weld the old tube to the lug. What is the best option and where could I get a suitable aluminium tube that will do the job? Second point, one of the rear wheel bearings, in the lug at the back of the bike is grinding and needs replacing I believe. Does anyone know where to get them from? Many thanks & Regards Daniel Vinson
	Daniel Vinson

GeoffBird Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Admin Group Joined: 20 September 2005 Status: Offline Points: 2298	Post Options Post Reply Quote GeoffBird Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 26 March 2018 at 8:19pm
	Please don't weld it!
	Right Time - Right Place - Wrong Speed

GeoffBird Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Admin Group Joined: 20 September 2005 Status: Offline Points: 2298	Post Options Post Reply Quote GeoffBird Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 26 March 2018 at 8:25pm
	I'm not completely familiar with the design, but I guess it is aluminium tubes glued into cast aluminium lugs. A steerer tube is a very highly stressed component and welding aluminium will reduce its resistance to fatigue stresses. It may not even be a grade of aluminium that is suitable for welding. The heat of welding could also cause distortion and affect other glued joints. I would strongly recommend contacting Mike Burrows and ask his advice: 01603 721 700 WRT to bearings, www.simplybearings.co.uk are good. Either measure the existing bearings or ask Mike. Edited by GeoffBird - 26 March 2018 at 8:27pm
	Right Time - Right Place - Wrong Speed