Lower Steering Head Bearing????

I am having trouble getting my lower steering head bearing(race) all the way in. I am just flush with the bottom of the neck. Need to know what all ghetto tools people used to get it pushed in all the way, what you used, what size, etc......I was using a pvc joint to get it in that far but it is too wide to go any further. Any suggestions? I don't have any sockets that large either.

I always use a hammer and a punch. You don't have to beat on it just go around the perimeter in a uniform pattern. Roy

Brass or Bronze punch would be best. A steel can easily damage a bearing race.

If you don't have a brass or bronze punch or drift you can use a piece of wooden dowel. Ed

Ok, thanks guys. I didn't know if I could do it that way or not. It crossed my mind a few times. lol

I might try the wooden dowel method first however.

For future, you might consider a set like this: www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-bearing-r...river-set-95853.html
I have 2 sets from Mac Tools I've had for many years. They don't fit every bearing, but they do most of them. Very handy.

I seen those in an ad and right now I believe they are only $19.95.

I just bought a small piece of pvc pipe in same diameter and beat it right in.:lol:

So now that I have the races on it is time to put the bearings on and then put it together. How snug do you get the slotted washer(stem locknut) when tightening it up?