78 390 triple clamps

Getting ready to paint the frame, stripped everything off but of course the last part to remove is the hardest. Took the nut off the top triple clamp, and thought it would pop right off, I don't see anything else holding it on. I can see the ring nut that holds the lower clamp and stem, but nothing else. I don't want to try and force off the top clamp unless I know for sure it is just stuck after all these years and just needs to be tapped off with a hammer and wooden block. Am I correct that it should lift off at this point?

Yes the top triple clamp should lift off but most get stuck if they have not been removed for many years. Using some heat on the aluminum top triple clamp and some penetrating oil usually loosens it up and can be removed with a back forth twisting/rotating motion to pull it up off the stem.

Marty

Perfect, thank you Marty.

Brian

Once the top nut is off, you can also unscrew the bearing collar and that will effectively press the top clamp off the stem.

I was wondering about that, thank you.

Brian

Well guys, had to use both methods but the job is done, Thanks again.

Brian