steering stem nut orientation

[dude99]

I seem to have forgotten what the correct orientation for the steering head nut is. Should the bigger surface bear down against the bearings, or face up against the upper clamp?

[yeadon_m]

Bigger surface down, so it appears from the parts diagram:
http://www.alpha-sports.com/suzuki_parts.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; - GT750 - steering stem
Mike

[dude99]

Thats what I had thought as well when I looked earlier, thanks for the confirmation.

A follow up question, how tight is the nut supposed to be? Just snug?

[yeadon_m]

The tightness needs to be just enough to allow the steering stem to rotate lock to lock without binding, while at the same time to eliminate any detectable rocking of the forks. Its common to adjust it with a C-spanner once the bike is built up and again after some miles, after which it'll remain good for a long time.
You probably have replaced the bearings?
Mike

[dude99]

Yes, I've upgraded to tapered roller bearings.