Quill stem not going below minimum

Never used a quill stem before so excuse the ignorance.

I've undone the top bolt all the way and I still can't get the stem below the minimum height, am I doing something wrong, should it be really hard to get it below this mark?

run a file down the head tube, chances are there is a notch inside that is stopping it. just needs filing out
if you check the stem you should see an indentation where it hits this said notch

How large is your frame?

just keep this in mind:

read more here: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_st-z.html#stem

it's 58cm c-c so this shouldn't be a problem.

Got it level with the minimum with alot of effort and a little filing, may have another go tomorrow.

Never used a quill stem before so excuse the ignorance.

I've undone the top bolt all the way and I still can't get the stem below the minimum height, am I doing something wrong, should it be really hard to get it below this mark?

What exactly don't you understand about trying to go below minimum height?

Surely you mean you can't get below minimum insertion ie maximum height..?
kboy's pic says it all - when you undo the bolt give it a tap to dislodge the expander bolt

Surely you mean you can't get below minimum insertion ie maximum height..?
kboy's pic says it all - when you undo the bolt give it a tap to dislodge the expander bolt

because that will make the butting go away?

don't hit it in with a hammer. i did in a fit of rage and rounded the stem bolt somehow.

Ok... point taken. But if the stem is in the head tube, hasn't been adjusted for a some time and won't move despite the bolt having been slackened off it may be seized and need just a tap to free it. I'm not suggesting frame alterations.