Special steering stem nut tool (castellated)

[r1owner]

I have a 2K1 GSXR600, and am trying to put the steering stem back on it.

I need to torque the stupid thing, but cannot due to the special nut.  I can't see paying 98 bucks for one special socket from the dealer! :rolleyes:

Anyone know where I might be able to find this socket cheaper?

Also, how many people have ever needed this socket?  I am considering having my brother in law make one for me, and if there is enough interest, maybe sell some as well.

[SliderPhoto]

My brother made one for our Hondas. I know what you mean. I'm not sure how universal they are, but you would think people would actually change their bearings once in a while, but I seem to doubt it.

I contacted two dealers in the area to see if they had the numerous tools needed to replace the races and bearings for the steering stem on my RC and neither had the proper Honda tools. Hmmm. In fact, one service manager incorrectly told me that the top pinch nut on the steering stem should be torqued the same as the bottom. What an idiot. Good thing I checked the manual because it said to hand tighten then turn 1/4 turn or some such (I forget could have been 1/2 rev). My steering stem was stripped and that was probably the culprit. Something to watch out for.

[rick]

I just tighten it until the steering feels good - just a hair of drag when I turn it. Not very scientific but it's worked for me so far.

[Baltobuell]

 I think 99% of people use Rick's method

[r1owner]

I'm going to use Rick's method (one that Speedballer keeps telling me to use ;)), but I would like to have this tool.

[Bernie]

Harley guys came to my rescue.  The top dog mechanic at Witt's HD in Manassas made me one by machining an old HD fork tube and then welding it onto a 3/8 drive socket.  He turned it down on a lathe and it looks sano.  I love my local Harley dealer (or at least their mechanics!). ;D

[Baltobuell]

 So spring for a firebolt! They're gonna look good in LW and the TL is shy about 1 anyway. If they're already helping you out, they'll love you if you promote them. Repeat after me, Free stuff is good.

[Speedballer347]

I always do it by hand...but, wouldn't one of those hoky(sp) 'gator' sockets works for ya.  
The socket w/ all of the springloaded pins that conform to any shape/size nut.  
W/ the minimal torque/poundage, the quality/strength of the tool would never come into play.
Just an alternative :P

[r1owner]

Don;t you have a plane to catch early tomorrow? ;)

Yeah, I thought of one of those, but they aren't big enough for this nut.

[Bernie]

So spring for a firebolt!

I'm gonna suck it up with the TL for one more season.  I don't know what I'll get next year, but it will be something that lots of people race.  I think I have had my share of quirky, unusual race bikes. :(