In continuing my build of the 50s Paff (see these threads: http://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vi...treasures.html, http://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vi...-pictures.html, http://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vi...-50s-paff.html, and http://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vi...-50s-paff.html ), after I reassembled the headset and remounted the fork, I determined that the fork had been slightly bent at the steerer. It was slightly but obviously pushed back towards the frame, as from a front end collision in its past life. So I disassembled, and proceeded to straighten the steerer. Now for those of you that like murder mysteries, I can already hear you saying "I know where this is going!", but nope, you'd be wrong!

I actually got the fork straightened out without much drama, though in spite of my best efforts did damage the new paint a bit (always check these things *before* painting!). No worries, I can fix that.....

But lo and behold, this little devil popped its head up: I don't know how I can fix this and hence the request for options!





Looks like there was some longstanding rust under what was left of the chrome, and this hole showed up as I was cleaning up after the fork bending exercise.....

So far I expect my options are:
1. Replace the fork (I have a spare tange fork in good shape that appears will fit, but it does NOT have the beautiful crown this one does. It'll likely work but it won't be a 62 year old italian fork!).
2. Get a frame builder to replace the fork blades (if only I knew a frame builder).
3. The backyard optimist in me says perhaps get the hole brazed up by a competent welder (I know a few of those!)....however the pessimist in me see this like mice or cockroaches - if you have one you have a bunch.....

Any advice from the wiser among you? Are there other options? For #2 , anyone know a frame builder in Southern Ontario that could tackle something like this for less than a powerball win's worth of dollars?