Originally Posted by
NOBLNG
OK, so before I dismantle anything I need to measure and record everything including the offset of the dropouts to frame centerline. When it goes back together the rear axle must be parallel to and level in relationship to the bottom bracket.
The seat tube does need to be shortened, but she now says only 2"-4". My main concern will be re-attaching the seat stays to the seat post. I do not have a seat tube reamer and that is a lot of welding that the builder did originally. Perhaps a die grinder could do the cleanup?
I am not sure what's up with that seat post clamp. Normally there would be a slot in the seat tube correct?
Yes, normally a slot in the seat tube. But, there are a number of external clamp handlebar stems without a slot, but using a wedge instead. I assume something similar is being used. There are also some "quill" type seat posts that have a wedge as part of the seat post.
Actually, you could gain about 2" by simply cutting off the seatpost mast, and adding a quill seatpost.
Brazing (fillet brazing) would give you less penetration and distortion of your joints.