Originally Posted by Dewbert
Well, I've recently become re-infatuated with classic/vintage Schwinns and am thinking about buying an old one and trying to restore it. (Probably a basic, single speed from the 50s or 60s.)
I'm a person of moderate mechanical skill and have recently completed some bike mechanics courses, so I know my way around the mechanics of a bike.
But here's the question:
I don't know a thing about rust removal or painting. Is there a good "Dummies" book or a resource for learning the basics of bike restoration? I think I'd enjoy this kind of project, but I'm the kind of guy who needs a reference manual or at least a source to turn to when I get stuck.
Thanks in advance.
I once used a product called "zip strip"---it took the paint off well on the "open" areas, however, after using it I needed to do a little extra scraping around the lugs to get down the the bare metal. Afterwards, I wiped the frame down with "rubbing" alcohol, primed it with aerosol metal primer, waited 24 hrs, then applied rattle can enamel paint.
If I had to do it over again, I would have sanded the primer w/fine paper and practiced my rattle can skills a bit more b4 hitting the frame, as I remember some drips. I wonder where that raleigh is now.