Maybe this is an elementary question, so be nice if I am just dumb please.

I bought a NOS 50's Porteur crank cover/guard... and I need a french crankset that will give me a little more clearance so it doesn't hit as it goes around. (I might be able to get the arms to clear if I am really careful with mounting the guard)

I may be able to use the original Stronglight cranks, or not, but if someone can help me with a couple of questions...

1. Is there a vintage single ring French crankset that would work for this and have enough clearance between the crank arm and the guard? Obviously the French popularized the Porteur bike and made parts that fit... who knows about these???

2. Or, can I use my existing Stronglight crankset- remove the two rings and put on a 48 tooth ring (the 52 tooth ring is too large for the chain cover)- and use bolts that are thinner to make up for the lost ring? Do smaller bolt sets for chain rings exist? (am I using the wrong terminology for the bolts that connect the rings to the crank?)

3. Is there a vintage (or vintage style... I don't like the curved lines of newer ones I've seen such as Velo Orange sells) single speed or track crankset that would work for me?

4. Anyone with a Porteur bike that can help would be .... well, helpful!

FYI... the chain guard in the second photo is just "placed" on the bike to see how it looks. I still have to figure out the derailleur clearance or I may use a gear hub. Suggestions here are welcome also.

Thanks all.