Steering stem nut torque help?

[mimbler]

While cleaning my bike (2002 prosport) I noticed the bottom stem nut/cap was very loose. The allen screw that locks it was loose as well. The bike rides and handles well. I used the search function, and the way it looks to me, since the upper and lower trees are still held tight by their pinch bolts, the fall away wouldn't have been affected by the bottom stem nut coming loose.

Can I just snug the stem nut up, and tighten the allen screw against it, and drive on till the next maintenance interval requiring steering head adjustment?

Thanks for any help from the tech savvy ones out there - I have a ride scheduled for Saturday, and I'd like to not tear into the front end if I don't need to!
thanks, Mike

 

[RAW Blue Rider]

Search the tech forum for "Fall Away" there is a method to the madness...

Happy Motoring!!

 

[Moespeeds]

For the short haul you will be ok, but as soon as possible set your fall away. You may not notice that the trees are loose, but your bearings will take the load. As your trees get loose, your steering will actually start to feel heavier. Setting the fall away takes all of about 30 min.

 

[HMAN]

http://www.bigdogbiker.com/forums/technical/4152-triple-tree-bearing-replacement.html

 

[mimbler]

Thanks guys! I appreciate the quick and helpful responses. I checked fall away, and it was in spec, so I tightened the stem nut, and then tightened the set screw. Good to go!
Mike