Restoring Vintage Bike advice

[warneral]

I have another question. I noticed the mafac racer centerpulls - the springs are rusty. Is tehre a way to replace them? It seems like a simple enough part (part 458 shown in the first diagram here http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/mafac.html)

I have a junk bike (rusty motobecane mirage from the same time) and the Weinnman 999 centerpulls are in nicer shape so I suppose I could try that - but I'd rather restore the original parts if possible.

[Kitsune06]

I have another question. I noticed the mafac racer centerpulls - the springs are rusty. Is tehre a way to replace them? It seems like a simple enough part (part 458 shown in the first diagram here http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/mafac.html)

I have a junk bike (rusty motobecane mirage from the same time) and the Weinnman 999 centerpulls are in nicer shape so I suppose I could try that - but I'd rather restore the original parts if possible.

Try using WD-40 and a welder's toothbrush on it before you pitch it. Sometimes things can come back pretty well, especially something like that... after using the welder's toothbrush, if you really really want it to shine for some reason, hit it with the 2000#grit sandpaper and you should be good to go.

oh and don't use steel wool on aluminum EVER. The fibers tend to embed themselves in the aluminum and cause electrolysis marring/pitting/nastiness after a while. Sandpaper is always the way to go, unless you're working on electronics, but that's a whoooole different ball of wax.

[warneral]

Here are some pics -

Can we no longer edit OP's? I would have put it there if I could.


Henry is annoyed that I brought ANOTHER bike home

[warneral]

Based on a google search, it sounds like the Weinmann brake calipers are a little easier to install/dial in. I think I'll just use those on this bike since they appear to be in good shape. Plus it will make my impetuous junk bike purchase a little more worth-while

[redrhodie]

That picture with Henry is so cute! Both he and the bike are fantastic. I hope you get it rideable.

[PamNY]

Henry does look like he's furrowing his brow at your purchase. Great pictures.

[warneral]

You should have seen my dh

I also brought this up in the vintage & classic folder at bike forums. I am getting overwhelmed thinking of wiring, taking apart, etc. I'm *this* close to taking it to these guys for a classic overhaul. It wouldn't fix my issues with the wheels but I'm thinking it would be easier for me to work an extra day or two to pay for this. I'm so impatient. I bought this bike so I could better understand these things, I really should just do it myself right?

Here's the service menu.

http://uphillgrind.net/home/bike-sho...e-repair-menu/