Stem removal

Tips time i think, i've loosend my stems top bolt (Quill Stem BTW) and i can twist it without too much of a problem, problem is i'm gaining no height what so ever, i'm knackered now, so how do i get it out.

Ok, i'll go try it.

Bash top with mallet?

I just finished (45 minutes ago maybe?) getting a stem off which was doing the same thing.

After getting tired of spinning the thing with not results, I put the bars on the floor, stood on them, and pulled up while twisting the wheel (Which is a bit awkward 'cause of the angle [you're not pulling straight up] - but it can be done). Give this a shot?

The real answer is elbow grease.

my problem is a bit harder... I've loosened the stem bolt, tried to twist it, but to no avail whatsoever, in any way, shape or form. Also have tried hitting the bolt hard with a mallet, but NO DICE... what would you recommend, pray?

Have you chucked any releasing oil down there like WD40? I'd spray it good inside and leave it to soak if I were you.

nope. haven't done that yet... is there not a danger that i may make it less safe in future if its lubricated down there?

You want some grease in your steerer tube to prevent the same problem from happening again.
Let the wd40 or even better gt85 soak for a bit, then try again, afterwards give it a thorough clean and then apply some grease to the inside of the steerer tube, lock it all down nicely and youll be good to go.

nope. haven't done that yet... is there not a danger that i may make it less safe in future if its lubricated down there?

Not as long as you clean it well once it's out and re-grease it before you insert it again (as the actress said to the bishop).

Rather than a mallet, try putting a piece of wood over the stem and whacking it really hard with a hammer...

bike upside down, front wheel off, spray wd40 down hole, leave for a bit, suitable piece of wood down hole, whack with mallet.

Sometimes the wedge will freeze itself to the stem and steerer tube and will not release properly if you simply loosen the bolt. Hitting the bolt with a hammer after loosening it a few turns will normally free it up. After making sure that has happened, penetrating oil and a bit of time should release a stem that is still stubborn.

45 minutes ago maybe?

How long ago now?

I'd say about... 15 months ?