Originally posted by Noloft
What are some of the pitfalls, or things I should watch out for once I decide which dropouts are best.
I agree with D*Alex, horizontal dropouts are more practical and convenient than track 'fork ends'. Doesn't the frame you are using does have horizontal dropouts resembling the red one at
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_d.html#dropout ?
It's a steel frame with 700c wheels and I know I may have to spread the rear stays depending on my hub choice, if that helps.
Track hubs are usually narrower in outer locknut spacing (110 or 120). I spaced my 110 Sovos out to 126 without needing to change the axle. The only annoyance is that the chainline is very narrow (this is on an old mountain bike frame). Phil Woods are probably the ultimate and come in many different spacings.
Also, any hints on modifying cranks and rim choice (cxp33?) would be great. I would like to keep it relatively inexpensive.
There should be no need to change cranks. Using the same bottom bracket, at the very least you will need to locate the chainring in the middle position of your cranks. In my case, I also had to use spacers to get the ring even further in, even with a short BB because of the cranks I was using.
Rim choice is definitely a matter personal preference. If you want to save money, boring, basic polished rims from companies who don't market as heavily as Mavic can't be beat. Many people prefer to pay the extra for Mavic and that's fine too. If you aren't using brakes on the back, the rim should last for a long, long time.
If you haven't already, have a look at
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/fixed.html , lots of useful information.