05-05-13, 07:05 PM
Update: ok as it was pouring down in the Black Country on Sat morning I had another look at this problem. Stripped down and checked everything,all ok. what seems to be the problem is the measurment between the bottom of the bottom adjusting nut to the top of the top locknut with the rubber washer fitted is to great to allow the top yoke to go down far enough on the stem and forks to allow the steering lock to engague. Take out the rubber washer reduces the the above measurement and all works well. The only thing that could be a problem is the condition of the rubber washer itself. It is distorted and not the round shape it should be. When fitted the top locknut can only be turned very loose finger tight before the washer is distorted even more and is squashed from between the nuts,rendering it useless.
If the washer was harder it would probably squash down with the locknut,allowing the locknut to tighten down properly,reducing the measurement between the 2 nuts and allow the steering lock to work.
I have ridden the bike to Llangollen today and it steered like a dream so all is good,washer not fitted.
I can only conclude the washer is badly perished and weak not allowing proper fitment and nut tightening.
If the washer was harder it would probably squash down with the locknut,allowing the locknut to tighten down properly,reducing the measurement between the 2 nuts and allow the steering lock to work.
I have ridden the bike to Llangollen today and it steered like a dream so all is good,washer not fitted.
I can only conclude the washer is badly perished and weak not allowing proper fitment and nut tightening.