Classic & Vintage - Restoring an old Schwinn Tandem

I'm looking on info on restoring this old Schwinn Deluxe Twin 5. I've no idea what components to use, or whether the ones on it are reusable. I've got a stash of tires, but nothing else. So a couple of questions:

1. Should I have the frame powdercoated?
2. Should I just strip the components off and have them rebuilt?
3. Where can I get tubes for these tires? Aren't they a weird size?

Thanks in advance,
Don

BTW- This is my first attempt at any sort of restoration.

3. Where can I get tubes for these tires? Aren't they a weird size?


What size are the tires and wheels on the bike now??

I think they are the Schwinn 26R's

powder-coating is expensive, but the way to go. tubes and tires are easy to find. why would the components need to be rebuilt? they probably just need a cleaning.

Tire sizing on an older bike can be confusing at the least. I would try looking here http://sheldonbrown.com/tire-sizing.html. Sheldon's site is a great resource.

My advice (which I don't always follow) is to work with what you have... don't repaint and try to salvage your components. A couple of years ago, I set up a schwinn tandem for some friends of mine. I replaced the tubes/tires and chains. I added racks, a longer seat post for the captain and a lighting system. The rest was just clean up, adjustment and elbow grease. It looks fine and runs great. Total cost for all the parts and stuff... I don't remember... but I'm sure it was well under $100.

I think we'll go the powdercoating route. I love the stuff. The parts we'll just clean up.

Another question though, is there anyplace that I can get the old decals, or should I have them cut at a graphics place? I know a good place to have it done cheap, around $30, will NOS graphics cost that much?