1" headset bottom cup removal

Hi all - having trouble removing the bottom cup from a 1989 Rockhopper that I want to replace - anyone know of a hack for this? I don't really want to buy a removal tool as I'll likely only use it once. Headset needs replacing so I don't mind if it gets damaged in the process..

flathead screwdriver and rubber mallet and knock it incrementally around all sides? you risk damaging the headtube though

I would say though headset removal tools are not all that expensive and make the job a very quick and easy one!

Perhaps someone can lend you the tool, where are you based?

Cut a slot length ways into the end of an appropriately sized copper plumbing pipe to make your own tool.

The tool makes it so much easier. Buy/make one.

Thanks for all of this - @dbr where are you based? Might ask to borrow it if you're anywhere near SE13..

Just use a screwdriver, it’ll be fine

Not mine I'm afraid, I just use a screwdriver.

Ok thanks

Does anyone have a loan of the tool in East London?

Yes I do

I made one of those tools last weekend out of an old straight handlebar. Setting the "prongs" took some trial and error, but it did the job.

Protip: sit the frame on some wooden blocks on the floor. Putting it in a stand is too springy and the stand will absorb the bashes

Tried to make one out of a seatpost and was completely impossible, need something with way thinner metal.

Screwdriver works but destroys the headset.

Next time I do it I'm just going to pay the tenner to buy the tool.

Or you could try posting on the tool exchange thread.

A length of copper pipe works, even if you don't cut slots into it. Just pop it into the headtube diagonally and tap it with a hammer rotating to a new spot if you see any movement in the cup.

100% worth buying the proper tool - went through a set of tent pegs trying to get this fucker out and eventually ordered the real thing, worked almost instantly. If anyone needs to borrow it in SE13 let me know

You can make a decent one from a curtain rail if you don’t use it very often

Bought the tool, thanks