Bicycle Mechanics - Cable guide on bottom bracket...

I just picked up a, made in Taiwan, older Raleigh Marathon.

I would like to get at the serial number which is mostly hidden under a riveted cable guide.

Is there some way to remove the cable guide so I don't damage the bottom bracket, and can replace the guide securely?

I did post at "Classic & Vintage" and so far no help.

Suggestions?

In case it matters, the bike is 501 chro-mo.

Rivets can sometimes be replaced with a nut and bolt provided that the rivet was only used for manufacturing convenience and not for clearance reasons. If you have the clearance to add a nut and bolt, just drill the rivet out by drilling the head or the rivetted end off by using a drill bit just slightly larger than the rivet diameter.

If you don't have clearance for a nut and bolt, a "pop rivet" might work to replace the original. You can find them here plus a multitude of other rivet options simply by searching for "rivet": www.mcmaster.com

A lot of these little guides are attached with a simple sheet-metal screw; you can buy a "self tapping" screw of the appropriate size after getting rid of the rivet.
As stated above, make sure you're clearing the BB spindle inside; it should be just long enough to hold well.

You can drill out the rivet and replace it with a screw. Or buy a Shimano BB cable guide, which have an expandable insert, like dry wall anchors.

Thank you all!! You have given me some work to do!!