Classic & Vintage - axle trouble...

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Phatman
09-21-03, 11:39 AM
I have this old bianchi that originally had solid axle hubs on it. I was putting my 700c wheels from my trek on it the other day, and I noticed that the axles was too big to fit in the fork dropouts. I figure this is becuase these were 3/8" axles and the ones on my hubs were 10mm. The difference is a little less then 1mm, and I was thinking that I might just take a dremel to the fork dropouts. Would this compromise the strutural integrety of the fork? I was thinking also that this might cause rust? I might just cover it with some of my sister's nail polish to keep rust at bay. what do you think?

Also, the old front wheel had a shorter over locknut distance then the new ones. sqeezing the wheel in was a bit of work...should I be worried?

Also, the rear drops of the frame are spaced to 120, and I was wondering what needed to be done to cold-set them to 130. Would it hurt the frame to just spread the rear drops and slide the wheel in? how do I cold set the frame? how much does it cost to get it done?

pat5319
09-23-03, 02:50 PM
File (or dremel it)- and nail polish is good but you will need to re-apply as it flakes off from wear.

You do not need to be worried. Check the drop-out alignment after you've adjusted the spread.

You can probably spread the rear youself, 99 times out 100 if you pull 'em apart by hand they'll spread evenly. Run a string from one drop-out, around the head-tube and to the other drop-out. Measure the distance from the seat-tube to the string on each side to check alignment. Again check the drop-out alignment.

I bought a Park drop-out alignment tool a few years ago and it's paid for itself several times, or take the bike to your fave LBS. If you take 'em a six pack, send in a customer or somethin' you might get 'er checked for free (or a small expense).

Ride Lots
pat
Phatman
09-23-03, 06:15 PM
ok, it is done...I filed the fork dropouts with a dremel and they appear to be fine. I put the back wheel in the rear drops, and whaddya know, it fit! i measured it, and mind you, this is a 9 speed tiagra hub, and it is 126mm from locknut to locknut! I then measured the rear dropouts, and they were also at 126...wierd eh? this was a 10 speed! just thought I'd share that.