Thanks to everyone who has replied so far. I especially enjoyed looking at the retro roadies thread that is exactly what I want to do so good inspiration I'm sure I'll be visiting that thread several more times.

So as not to keep making oodles of posts I thought I try asking another few questions here.

1. Is their any such thing as a good quality steel lugged frame road frame that is kind of between aggressive and non-aggressive one that would be good on centuries, but would be worth trying road racing on if I decide to go that route or are vintage mostly all that middle ground.

2. Are their and if so which good specific 1980's frames Steel Lugged frames/bikes are mid-high end that can be found for consistently less $$$'s then others. I'm a full time single dad of two college ages kids that I'm helping put through college on a tight budget. If you all don't mind giving specific Brands and models I should be looking for that would be terrific.

3. Is English b1271 the same as standard English threading.