Originally Posted by
arbalest
Thanks to all for the info. I really appreciate the input.
I think I will buy some tubing and attempt to fashion a patch or two during the fall or winter. When I get something I like I'll find someone to braze it in place or even try it myself.
In that spirit, I might as well ask three more questions:
1) Should I look for a particular type of CroMo tubing (like 4130), given that the bike is 531?
4130 tubing would be perfect. Silver brazing a 4130 patch to the 531 seat tube after removing the paint, thoroughly cleaning both the seat tube and the patch, and generously applying flux would work just fine. Use Silvaloy A56T cadmium-free brazing alloy and Harris Stay-Silv white flux (or equivalents).
Originally Posted by
arbalest
2) If I try it myself, will a small dual tank MAPP gas plus Oxygen set-up be hot enough for this?
Yes. I'm not sure MAPP is available any more, but I've successfully used the Bernz-O-Matic OX2550 "Max Power Propylene" fuel/oxygen torch kit for similar repairs.
Originally Posted by
arbalest
3) Can someone recommend a person/place in the Chicago area to do this? (post or PM is OK).
Humble Frameworks on Chicago's South Side does repairs for $65 an hour.