help steering bearings and races

kz1000 '78 A2A
I bought all balls tapered bearings back in april 2011. installed the races but messed up the lower bearing. the roller cage was black and a little taller than the replacement I received which has a different design silver with a lower roller cage. I guess they changed the design but same measurements. my question is do I need to replace the races with this new kit? like I said same all balls part number 22-1014 but a new design.
also I have a kz1000 a2a with original steering ball bearings. I notice with my other bike and new taperd bearings there is a slight difference in height meaning the lower stem and upper tree should compress just a little more

id use the race that comes with the new bearing

wireman wrote: id use the race that comes with the new bearing

+1

any advice on taking out these tapered races? they are in flush

If there is no edge showing on the inner circumference you won't be able to drive them out with a drift pin. You may need to use a Dremel tool with a cutter or small grinding attachment to cut the race. If you do, take your time so you don't damage the steering stem. Ed

is this tottaly necessary. I mean with the new set of bearings and having to take out these races?

vintsham72 wrote: is this tottaly necessary. I mean with the new set of bearings and having to take out these races?

You may want to contact All Balls about this. When I installed mine I wasn't sure whether they should be torqued to the factory spec since they were a different type of bearing than the original, so I called All Balls to ask. I found them very friendly and helpful (the answer was yes - use original factory torque spec). I believe their toll free number is 888-228-3323; they're in PA. Ed

t

Vintsham,

When you get the answer please update this post for the rest of us KZ1000 owners.

I have the same kit and am about to start this project as well.
Any info and pictures would be greatly appreciated!

vintsham72 wrote: is this tottaly necessary. I mean with the new set of bearings and having to take out these races?

you should only have one race to knock back out,bottem of steering head

im putting 86 zx front on my kz750 and i have no idea as to what bearing change i need you smart fukers gimme a hand