n62bm-

You do have a dilemma - you say you love this bike, its served you well. You didn't say that its been having symptoms, just that the drivetrain is work out.

I think given that its lived a good life, keep it clean & lubricate the drivetrain well (could lack of lube have hastened its life?) and hang on to it while you search out a new bike. This bike isn't worth repairing to you or anyone else it seems.

If you haven't already read this - here goes & good luck

http://sheldonbrown.com/chains.html

Peter