Unable to get headset fitted to the forks

[Meds]

I have just replaced the fork top and bottom bearings on a non chrome ring LI 125 S but can't get the headset to bolt to fit.
It looks like the the notch on the fork isn't lining up with the securing bolts, it looks about 3mm short
I checked that the bottom bearing is located ok, reseated everything with the same fault.
does anyone know the distance from the top of the fork to the top of the frame so I can rule out the fork not sitting in correctly.
All I have changed are the bearings, the lock nut us a reproduction but was used before.
Any help would be gratefully received

[lambypolo]

Bottom bearing race upside down?

[rossclark]

I typed that before but decided not to post it when I reread the OP and it says he's checked it, seems the most obvious thing to me since it's unlikely the length of the forks or frame have changed...

[Markpm]

Has a ball came loose out the old cage and stuck in the grease in the lower race,these would hold your forks down around 3mm??

[CHRIS in MARGATE]

Sometimes to get the bolt to go in and thread squarely you have to "squeeze" the ends of the clamping bracket together.

[Meds]

First thing I checked was the race being the correct way up, wish it had been that straight forward. the potential that a ball was stuck is a probability
Otherwise I couldn't find any reason. I have ordered new bearings as I managed to damage the top race. Thanks for the help