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Archived: Restoration Tips







RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Warped Wheel posted by: Gralyn on 5/11/2002 at 12:40:40 PM
I have a severely warped wheel. Most of the time, when I pick up these old bikes - if the bike has warped wheels - it's usually no problem for me. I can use it to help get the price down....but then I can get it back in-line using a spoke wrench. I have one now, however, which is severely warped - you can really see the warpage just looking at it. Enough that many of the spokes on one side are very loose. Is it possible to get this wheel back in-line? If so, how would you do it?


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Warped Wheel posted by Tom Findley on 5/13/2002 at 1:44:47 PM
A wheel on my '70 Suburban warped because I rode on it while the tire was flat. I had to replace the rim. A Phantom I bought also had a warped fron trim. The bike mechanics couldn't straighten it, so I bought a new rim for it.

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Warped Wheel posted by Gralyn on 5/14/2002 at 3:21:00 PM
I fooled around with it for a while - then I just gave up. It didn't seem like I would straighten. When they have a little warp in them - it's easy to true them up. But when it is severe - I don't know if it can be done.






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   brass wool posted by: Chad on 5/10/2002 at 9:03:39 PM
I need to know where you purchase fine brass woolfor my chrome on my stingray. Thanks


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   brass wool posted by Russell on 5/17/2002 at 3:24:14 AM
I've searched for Brass Wool. I wasn't able to find it until I went to a boating store. It was expensive so I passed on buying it. I found a product called Quick Glo at a bike shop that works for me on rust. After I use it I go over the area with a fresh clean cotten towel.

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   brass wool posted by Stacey on 5/17/2002 at 10:33:20 AM
Geeez... Brass, well actually Copper Wool is readily available in my area at both the local Goodwill Thrift Shop and at the Grocery for less than a buck each. They are sold a 'Sink Scrubbies' for cleaning the nasty stuff off your pots & pans. There is only one grade... fairly rough. But with it being softer than the chrome it's not really an issue. Coz it won't scratch. Just scrub away until the rust is gone, then follow up with a good chrome polish. You'll be AMAZED!

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   brass wool posted by ChristopherRobin2@starmail.com on 5/18/2002 at 9:25:26 PM
Quick Glow is slightly abrasive and it will scratch too., Quick Glo has a strong following but I don't like it. Better is out there to clean your chrome you can find.






RESTORATION TIPS - MISC:   Elgin Womens Bike posted by: Randy on 5/9/2002 at 9:28:49 PM
Hello:

I found this Ladies Elgin Bike in a Bulk Stop toady, It looks very old.I really dont know to much about it.
It has a full chain guard with big circles in it, The sprocket also have round holes with designs on it,and big wide fenders, The Seat is black with heavy duty springs,and the color of the bike is also black.The tires are Good Year Air Whell 26" inch. It looks like you can just put air in the tires and ride it, The rims are a silver color,and has a rear Kick stand that holds up the bike, and latches back up to the fender. I would like to know about what year this bike was made, and the value on it.
Thank You Very Much For Your Time.
Randy
New Jersey







RESTORATION TIPS - MISC:   Elgin Womens Bike posted by: Randy on 5/9/2002 at 9:28:49 PM
Hello:

I found this Ladies Elgin Bike in a Bulk Stop toady, It looks very old.I really dont know to much about it.
It has a full chain guard with big circles in it, The sprocket also have round holes with designs on it,and big wide fenders, The Seat is black with heavy duty springs,and the color of the bike is also black.The tires are Good Year Air Whell 26" inch. It looks like you can just put air in the tires and ride it, The rims are a silver color,and has a rear Kick stand that holds up the bike, and latches back up to the fender. I would like to know about what year this bike was made, and the value on it.
Thank You Very Much For Your Time.
Randy
New Jersey







RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Clean -up posted by: Mark on 5/3/2002 at 3:33:41 PM
I just picked up a 1965 Schwinn De-Luxe Twin. It's in pretty good shape as far as I can tell. There are a few scratches but not too bad. Should I leave this in it's original condition (other than cleaning it) or should I have it repainted?


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Clean -up posted by JimW. on 5/3/2002 at 6:34:00 PM
I recommend cleaning it up, waxing it well, and leaving it alone. A decent repaint is time-consuming/expensive. If you paid to have it done, you would never recover what you spent on it if you re-sold it.






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   ride posted by: rickey@knowlesbicycle334-756-7561 on 5/2/2002 at 2:49:02 PM
would you like to come ride this sat may 4 we will have 300 or more bike riders this is an annual event here in valley alabama 30 min. from columbus ga. 1 hr. south of atlanta ga. I-85 valley lanette exitlots of fun & activities an auction at the local kroger gro. in lanette al. to raise money for valley haven school call 334-756-2868 334-756-7801 or the local bicycle shop 334-756-7561 hope to see you thare








RESTORATION TIPS - MISC:   hike bike run posted by: rickey@knowlesbicycle334-756-7561 on 4/29/2002 at 3:56:42 PM
THE 26th ANNUAL HIKE/BIKE/RUN WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY may 4 in valley THE annually fund raiser for valley haven school for the handicaped ..WE EXPECT A LARGE GATHERING THIS YEAR ...THERE WILL BE MANY CYCLRIST RIDEING BACK FROM MONTGOMERY'S CAPITAL 100 MILES--A 22 MILE-- 11 MILE 5 MILE RIDERS WALKERS RUNNERS ALL AGES MOTER SCOOTERS TO -- AND I PERSONALY INVITE YOU TO JOIN US THIS YEAR MAY 4 HERE IN VALLEY AL. WERE ON THE BORDER GA & AL INTERSTATE 85 AT THE VALLEY LANNETT KING FORD EXIT TAKE FOB JAMES DR. TO FAIRFAX BYPAS THE SCHOOL'S ON THE RIGHT 1 HALF MILE THIS IS WHERE ALL THE EVENTS BEGAN & END EXCEPT THE 100 MILE RIDE WHICH ENDS AT THE KROGER GRO.IN LANNETT AL.THERE WILL BE A AUCTION WHERE ALL DONATED ITEMS WILL BE SOLD TO RAISE MONEY FOR VALLEY HAVEN SCHOOL GOD BLESS PLEASE COME PARTICIPATE YOU MAY CALL THE SCHOOL AT 334-7562868 OR 334-756-7801 OR US HERE AT KNOWLES BICYCLE SHOP 334-756-7561 TUNE YOUR BIKE & RIDE SAT. MAY 4 2002 IN VALLYE AL.YOUR PLEDGES ARE WELCOMED







RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   NEW COLORS FOR A BLACK-AND-WHITE LIFE posted by: Mario Romano - The Collector on 4/26/2002 at 10:19:05 PM
If you are tired from the black color of the old english roadsters try paint it on dark wine red or light leaf green. So, remember still paint the frame joints with glare or pearl white paint. If you use metal flake lowrider paints, these colors I told you, you will gain a best effect on paint old english roadster. Remember to buy the dice valve covers too!

Romano







RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Hard rubber tire replacement? posted by: Brad on 4/18/2002 at 3:39:51 PM
Probably not a project of interests to alot of you, but nostalgic urges have led me to think about refurbishing an old tricycle. I've found several at local flea markets, and feel confident that I can handle the metal work and paint with no problems.

However, the more visually appealing styles seem to all have tires in horrible shape (entirely gone, chunks missing, large splits, etc.). Any ideas on where to find raw materials to make replacement tires, techniques for doing this, and/or tips to save the originals?

Thanks,
Brad


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Hard rubber tire replacement? posted by a friend on 4/20/2002 at 2:40:39 PM
Try These guys At www.memorylane-classics.com/homeset.htm ask for Larry or Harv.

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Hard rubber tire replacement? posted by JimW. on 4/26/2002 at 8:46:46 AM
J&B Importers also have semi-pneumatic tires. They have then in sizes 10 12, 16 & 20". They also have complete wheels for trikes in 7, 8, 10, & 12". sizes. http://jbimporters.com

   RE:RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - WHEELS:   Hard rubber tire replacement? posted by ChristopherRobin2@starmail.com on 5/8/2002 at 5:39:29 PM
Try Victoria Precision in Canada.






RESTORATION TIPS - SADDLES:   Columbia Saddle Resto... posted by: Fred A on 4/18/2002 at 1:22:51 AM
Hi All.......

Would anyone be able to tell me where I can get info on how to recover a saddle from a 1951 Columbia? The entire fabric or leather covering is gone, but the base is completely intact. ANY info would be greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks,
Fred A


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - SADDLES:   Columbia Saddle Resto... posted by a friend on 4/20/2002 at 2:46:39 PM
Fred try the adderess I posted above www.memorylane-classics.com/homeset.htm or ask them who they recomend for this type of information. They have access too many collectors, and restores who would be happy too help.

   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - SADDLES:   Columbia Saddle Resto... posted by sam on 4/21/2002 at 2:17:09 AM
Fred,seats on late model bikes like your columbia are very easy to recover.Look at what is left to see if leather or vinyl.You'll find most to be vinyl.Buy the cheep type of vinyl not the most expencive,it works best.First you need a small peice of carpet pad cut to fit the pan cover this with cotten get it at a sewing center.then cut the vinyl larger than the seat .Heat the vinyl till soft--you can use a hair dryer or hold over stove--hair dryer is saftest.When soft streach over seat pan and bolt together.

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - SADDLES:   Columbia Saddle Resto... posted by Fred A on 4/22/2002 at 5:13:01 PM
Thanks, Sam!(and "a friend").
This is something I really want to do myself, and your way makes it sound easy. Can't wait to get started. Thanks again for the responses.
Fred






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Columbia "Twosome" posted by: Skid on 4/17/2002 at 4:45:50 PM
Picked up a Columbia "Twosome" tandem with a Sacks 2-speed rear hub - all original, one owner. Looking for replacement decals so it can be repaiinted. Also where is the serial number on this machine? Any help would be appriciated!


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Columbia posted by Kris on 7/21/2002 at 6:45:09 PM
you will find the serial number on the back part of the frame where it holds the back tire, on the right side. We have this tandem too. And we are trying to find out more about it. We e-mail Columbia with the serial number to find out what year it is. I have seen picture of it on the web some say it is a 1950 bike some say 60's. We are restoring our bike and having a very hard time finding parts and decals. Good luck with you hunt. If you have any help for us and where to look for parts that would be great to let us know. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Columbia posted by Kris on 7/21/2002 at 6:47:17 PM
you will find the serial number on the back part of the frame where it holds the back tire, on the right side. We have this tandem too. And we are trying to find out more about it. We e-mail Columbia with the serial number to find out what year it is. I have seen picture of it on the web some say it is a 1950 bike some say 60's. We are restoring our bike and having a very hard time finding parts and decals. Good luck with you hunt. If you have any help for us and where to look for parts that would be great to let us know. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.






RESTORATION TIPS - MISC:   dynohub overhaul posted by: Joshua Perkins on 4/16/2002 at 4:08:38 AM
I need to, if possible, replace the armature on my dynohub--God knows how this happened, but one of the terminals just got destroyed and the previous owner had soldered a connection. Has anyone done this? What can you use for a keeper ring to avoid demagnetization? Thanks for any time anyone can give.


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - MISC:   dynohub overhaul posted by Surrey on 4/23/2002 at 2:53:28 PM
They sell NOS dynohub armatures on this site. Click on bikes and Parts for sale at the top of the page.






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   dynohub overhaul posted by: Joshua Perkins on 4/16/2002 at 4:08:38 AM
I need to, if possible, replace the armature on my dynohub--God knows how this happened, but one of the terminals just got destroyed and the previous owner had soldered a connection. Has anyone done this? What can you use for a keeper ring to avoid demagnetization? Thanks for any time anyone can give.


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   dynohub overhaul posted by ChristopherRobin2@starmail.com on 4/23/2002 at 12:37:11 AM
Here in the "parts for sale" section there is offered a replacement armeture. Part# SADYNO. This is the Sturmey-Archer Dynohub armeture. $55.00 isn't cheap, but finding these before this group was formed was very, very difficult. It will have your dynohub running like new.
Take a look at Sheldon Brown's site at http://www.Sheldonbrown.com and look thru his bicycle articles. He talks about Dynohubs at length.
Harris Cyclery (Where Sheldon works) offers all sorts of interesting things for sale but whatever you cannot find with Sheldon some things are sold here. Then there is e- bay and you can always ask one of the folks here about something you may need. Post under English roadsters.

   RE:RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   dynohub overhaul posted by ChristopherRobin2@starmail.com on 4/23/2002 at 12:39:12 AM
The keeper ring is the metal part that goes around the armature that is pictured under misc n.o.s. parts for sale.






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   who can paint my part posted by: John Lewandowsky on 4/14/2002 at 4:11:04 PM
I have my old schwinn bmx sx-1000. I am trying to locate someone who can paint the handlebars red. Or, someone who knows where I can buy the paint myself. I tried the auto paint store and i don't want to pay $100 for paint just to paint the bars. Can anyone help?
Thanks, John.


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   who can paint my part posted by metlhed on 4/19/2002 at 12:07:20 AM
where do you live? email me and we can talk






RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Pin Striping posted by: Bob on 4/6/2002 at 3:13:39 PM
I'd like to know of an effective tool and technique for pinstriping...frames and rims.


   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Pin Striping posted by rickey on 4/6/2002 at 10:00:26 PM
j c whitney has the right stuff

   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Pin Striping posted by MNSmith on 4/7/2002 at 12:34:32 PM
You can go to Eastwood and get the Beugler tool and supplies. You can also find pinstripe stencils. All kinds of neat stuff.

   RE:RESTORATION TIPS - PAINT:   Pin Striping posted by sam on 4/13/2002 at 5:37:24 PM
Pinstripe brush--at Eastwood too.