Can't get quill stem bolt back into expander wedge

[zhang]

In the process of trying to move a stuck quill stem, I managed to remove the long bolt and dislodge the expander wedge, however I've since decided to give up on the stem and leave it in its current position, however now the expander wedge appears to be loose in the forks somewhere and I can't get the bolt to thread back into it. I've tried turning the frame upside down in an attempt to shake the expander wedge back into position but am not having much luck. Also, the bottom of the fork is sealed so I can't access it through there.

Anyone have any ideas?

I suppose the ideal solution would be to try to remove the stem again but I suspect it might be quite stuck, in which case I could possibily get away with riding it without the stem secured and hope that the stem doesn't suddently decide to become adjustable again when I'm going down a hill!

 

[hamster]

Easiest is to get some studding (long threaded bar) about 200mm long. Then thread it onto the wedge and pull it up. You should then be able to refit your normal bolt.

 

[zhang]

Managed to get a old coat hanger down there to pull the wedge up. Quill stem is still stuck but at least it's securely stuck now...

 

[Ian Raleigh]

Seized in stems & posts is the most common problem with old bikes,
I feel for you mate! take it steady if you do decide to try and remove
the stem, you could badly twist forks in a mad attempt to remove the stem.

Plenty of guys on here who have come across this problem and conquered the stem, so they could help!

 

[pigman]

the sealed fork crown isnt helping - you cant put any plusgas etc into the bottom.
Could you deill a hole from the bottom (small, no bigger than a straw) to get some pentrating fluid in there?