In 1994, I bought an old Cannondale for my son to take to college. After he stopped using it, I had a friend help me change it over to drop bars and bar end shifters. I now want to change it back. I'm really new to this, so I have lots of questions. I will probably be turning it into more of a hybrid with skinnier tires, so I'm not necessarily looking to make it original.

What should I look for on the frame itself to make sure it is still structurally sound?

I have a buddy in the body shop business who will repaint it for me and hopefully put on new dedcals. Should I do this? Original color or change? (I know, my choice, just want opinions.) Where can i get decals to match? The only markings I see on the frame is Cannondale, Made in the USA and 3.0. How can I tell what model it even is?

I want indexed shifters, but no grip shift, and I guess I'll leave on the cantilever brakes. I'd like nice components. Can you buy Deore or equivalent stuff used?

Is this frame/project even worth doing? I'll need help, as I am no bike mechanic, so it will cost me some money there, too. How much would you consider paying to do this type of project.

Thanks in advance and sorry about the long post. I'm sure I'll have more questions as I go on.