Yeah [MENTION=27909]treebound[/MENTION] I hear 'ya about a rebuild that goes over-budget - at least what I told myself it would be to justify the initial purchase.

Rules:
1. buy donor bikes in a size range that can fit, if I get attached to donor = It Happens.
1a. flipping bikes for a loss is beyond Hassle.
2. never insist on 100% original parts. Era appropriate preferred, but.... It's a pedal hike, built to pedal.
3. make sure there is adequate storage space.
4. always have a few favored riders ready to go, since delayed projects are reality.
5. for some builds, you know a Plan B may be needed - make it more realistic and cheaper than Plan A.
6. know when to cut bait, you are only getting sunburned.