I have a trusted old hybrid not shifting well. Rather than spending a few bucks on new grip shifters that repeatedly break I'm thinking of converting this one to a single speed. I have a new 17 tooth freewheel and chains, but I've got vertical drops. Don't really want to by a chain tensioner so the question is:

Can you accomodate the lack of travel with vertical drops simply by adjusting the chain length and/or using a half link?

Not real concerned about looks, this one is kind of a beater that stays on the porch and follows my kids to school each day.

Thanks for any advice.