Modifying forks and truss rods ??

[Crazy Nick]

So I kind of jumped the gun buying this fork and truss rod combo because the forks match a 1958 - 24 inch frame that I have.
I believe that they're off a girls bike because the steer tube is longer than on boys forks, therefore the truss rods are also longer than boys.

I ordered a die so I can add threads then cut steer tube to desired length. That doesn't seem too hard but if anyone has any pointers from personal experience that would be appreciated. Also, any tips on shortening truss rods. Since this is a bit of a ratty build I'm tempted to just put the ends in a vice, smash the ends flat and re-drill - but if anybody has experience shortening truss rods or maybe a theory that's less barbaric than my idea I'm open to suggestions... Thanks!!!

 

[RustyGold]

I'd shorten at the bracket end, not the wheel end.

 

[Crazy Nick]

^^^ I thought about that too but I was thinking that it might throw the angle off, but I'm definitely going to wait until I have the bike together before doing anything permanant

 

[Crazy Nick]

I suppose I could buy a piece of aluminum tubing to make a sample with the same angle then figure out where I should cut.

 

[RustyGold]

I'd trace the current contour on a piece of paper. After you find out how much shorter you need it, cut off the ends and re-contour the rod to match the template. I'd try a tubing bender and just keep shaping until you match.

 

[Starnger]

View attachment 163994
So I kind of jumped the gun buying this fork and truss rod combo because the forks match a 1958 - 24 inch frame that I have.
I believe that they're off a girls bike because the steer tube is longer than on boys forks, therefore the truss rods are also longer than boys.

I ordered a die so I can add threads then cut steer tube to desired length. That doesn't seem too hard but if anyone has any pointers from personal experience that would be appreciated. Also, any tips on shortening truss rods. Since this is a bit of a ratty build I'm tempted to just put the ends in a vice, smash the ends flat and re-drill - but if anybody has experience shortening truss rods or maybe a theory that's less barbaric than my idea I'm open to suggestions... Thanks!!!

I don't have a die for 1" 24tpi, so instead i usually cut out the sector from the steerer and weld it back. Never caused me a single problem, and i am able to shorten or extend any fork this way
Truss rods is a bit more of a delicate issue. Flattening them same way as they are now may not be easy. I'd probably just try to fabricate my own rods in the situation like that.

 

[Crazy Nick]

I don't have a die for 1" 24tpi, so instead i usually cut out the sector from the steerer and weld it back. Never caused me a single problem, and i am able to shorten or extend any fork this way
Truss rods is a bit more of a delicate issue. Flattening them same way as they are now may not be easy. I'd probably just try to fabricate my own rods in the situation like that.

Thanks for info!!!

 

[Crazy Nick]

I gave my die a test run on a set of bent forks for practice and it's super easy. There's a little technique to it, go down 1/4 inch then back it off and repeat in 1/4 increments. Cutting it to desired length should be pretty easy.
$40 for the die, $20 for the handle and $5 for cutting lube - works for me

 

[Dizzle Problems]

I don’t believe the headtube of the girls frame is terribly longer. I’d prob chase the threads (as you’ve done) then put the top race of the headset on, the a 1” headset spacer in whatever height needed, then the truss rod bracket, then key washed and nut. Likely won’t be too noticeable once built and you avoid having to change the length of the truss rods

 

[AndyA]

All good thoughts, but let me add another. If the head tube isn't that much shorter, you may be able to increase the curve of the truss rods with a tubing bender and get them to fit without cutting any off the end. That may look cool on a "bit of a ratty build." Have fun!