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![r/AutoDetailing - [Review] WD-40 Foaming Engine Degreaser](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-MrdPRuMb9TIiI9kSk-nMvHxjq_-tttvEs9qqz91Y7U.jpg)
other than the obvious corrosion it is also quite common for these internal wedge stems to deform/pinch the steerer tube, which makes it very hard to remove until the wedges themself are loosened/removed
I just got the wedges out. I was able to shove a flat screwdriver in from the front and popped one of them out. I then got the other one out by hammering a big hex wrench into it.
It is still seized. It looks like that is probably the primary problem.
At least I have eliminated all other possibilities. I had never worked on a stem with a tightening system like this. Thanks for the picture.
I'm looking at temperature and chemical solutions right now. I'll probably just apply more penetrating oil and leave it for a while like someone else just recommended.
perhaps you could clamp the fork down in a vise and slide something long into or over the stem (depending how much room you have in there) to get some mechanical advantage and twist the stem around the steerer tube axis
Keep applying penetrating oil and leave it for a few days
These have a kind of ramped wedge to squeeze the steerer. If you can, wiggle it side to side (like you’re turning the handlebars) keeping the fork still. Try hitting it with a rubber mallet on/near that black circle assembly. Be ready to catch or keep track of the bits when they do fall out and fall all over the place.
If worst comes to worst, and you’re replacing anyway, thread the bolt back in a couple threads and hit it on the head with a mallet. You risk bending the bolt but it’ll drive that wedge straight away from the steerer tube.
Give it some love taps, and some WD40
I can't get this stem off. I removed the side bolt, but it will not budge. Is there there anything else I need to do to remove it correctly?
The fork steerer is rusted so it might just be stuck. I applied penetrating oil.
I just want to make sure I am not skipping a step before I get more aggressive with it.
I'm not that worried about saving the fork or the the stem, but I would like them off. I'd re-use the stem if possible.
Its probably seized