Originally Posted by
safariofthemind
are there are any pearls of wisdom that can be easily obtained before embarking on my first wheel?
Yes. Don't expect perfection on your first try. If you don't make mistakes, you won't learn anything.
My learning experiences include:
Relacing the same wheel 4 times in a row.
Not lubing nipple threads & seats (squeak!!).
Rounding multiple spokes nipples.
Stripping nipple threads.
Spontaneous spoke loosening.
Exploding hub flanges.