I have a 1973 Gitane TDF that I restored and am having problems with the bottom bracket. I can tighten the cup enough to eliminate the "horizontal" play, but it still will rock back and forth (vertically) a tiny bit, if I tighten it where this stops I can tell it is dragging on the bearings. Can I assume the bottom bracket is shot? would it indicate bad cups, bad spindle or a combination of both (I have replaced the bearings)?

It is a stronglight BB and I think the spindle is 118 mm. Velo Orange has french BBs but their spindle size that is close is 116 or 122 would either of these be OK? They are also JIS taper, I am using a stronglight crankset, will these match up?

Any tips on what tool and technique for removing fixed cup?

Thanks