Originally Posted by UglyBagofWater
So karlfitt, did you keep the front crank as a 7/8 speed model too? I know the chain has to be narrower for the 9 speed cassette, and wonder if that will be another issue or not. I guess I'll see for myself in the next week and report back!
Thanks everyone for your valuable input. Makes me feel even better about the treasure I found "dumpster diving"!

No, I did not keep the front crank, I replaced that too. I did a total rebuild on my MTB. The only parts that were there befor the rebuild are the frame, rear shock, and saddle, everything else is new.