Advance apologies for hijacking this thread, Dan. But, it is somewhat related.

I'm restoring a vintage Puch for a friend. It has Normandy Luxe Competition hubs (red label). I've read that the cones are of poor quality and pit/wear out. The advice I've received is to not bother with them and find another new/used wheelset. Economically that would seem to make the most sense as it would cost me $150 to have the wheels relaced and trued not including my own labor polishing the wheels and repacking the hubs. The spokes aren't SS and three popped when we brought it from the 95 degree garage to the 70 degree house.

Any advice?