Best place to start learning about fixing/maintaining/adjusting your bikes:
http://sheldonbrown.com/english-3.html
http://sheldonbrown.com/sturmey-archer.html
For the bike that is not shifting into second:
1. Adjust the cable correctly.
2. Add oil (there is a port in the middle ofthe rear hub.) Use light weight petroleum gear oil. Do NOT use the regular 3 in 1 oil (you can us this brand if it says “petroleum” on it.)
3. Ride it and shift a lot. Be prepared for it to free wheel in second (like it does now.) After a few mile the oil should work its way around in the mechanism and free up the stuck parts are preventing it from engaging second gear.
For the brakes that scream like a bansee, get a new frontwheel with an aluminum alloy rim, like this:
https://www.google.com/#q=26x1-3%2F8+Front+Alloy&tbm=shop
(26 x 1-3/8 wheel size also known as ISO 590 mm, 650A, and E.A.3: http://sheldonbrown.com/26.html)
An alloy rim will make the bike feel livelier and will reduce stopping distance (especially in the rain.) There are benefits to replacing the real wheel too, but the biggest cost/benefit ratio is with the front wheel.
If the brake still squeal with an aluminum rim, Google can help you find other fixes to try.
Raleigh Sports are like Model T Fords; you can keep them running for ever if you are constantly fiddling with them.
Last edited by 0.2HP; 10-06-13 at 10:12 AM.