Determing derailleur specs
I am putting together a couple of bikes. I am using a lot of old, but what I think are good quality parts. My question is this..how do you determine what specs (or number of speeds) a derailleur is? I am building two bikes that are 8 speed in the back, and the derailleur I put on it limits out at the lowest gear..no adjustment left. So I'm wondering if I am using an old 7 speed (or 6?) and it doesn't have that much travel..
Same question for front derailleur..also how do you determine what length spindles (square taper) go with what size derailleur? For me now, it's just a matter of trial and error.
Thanks.
Perry