Removing Braze-ons
 

Hello, I'm fairly new to this site, and I was wondering if you could help. I am converting an '87 Schwinn Traveler to a fix/ss, and I want to remove the downtube shifter lugs to give the bike a cleaner look. I also want to remove some of the cable guides and the derailer hanger. I'm planning to repaint the bike afterward, so what is the best method to remove this extra steel? I am trying to do this inexpensively, and I want to do it myself. It's a 4130 True Temper Frame.
Thanks,
zac

first of all...where are you from. it's impolite to give so little info 'bout yourself.

search for "braze-ons" yields: this thread

the best method is the one youre most comfortable with. Torch? File? Hacksaw? Dremel? Angle Grinder? Sawzall (note, do NOT allow your neighbor to do this) ? Chain Saw? Weed Wacker ?

personally, I'd leave 'em on.

Chew them off.

I had an easy time using a hacksaw, file, and last, an orbital sander to smooth it all down. Came out perfect.

Hacksaw and file. Not quick, but safe.

edit: stevo is referring to this thread. And this is why powertools are not always a good idea as well...

For those of us who don't trust storing a tank of oxygen at 2200psi in our garage, do you think a propane plumbers torch would get the braze hot enough?

yes it will. it takes some time, but it will. probably about 3-4 minutes per braze-on

focus the flame on the braze-on. not the tube. if it seems to be awhile, whack it with a file.

Blowtorch to heat up the braze-ons and a wrench to whack 'em off when they get hot. Er, that sounds pretty perverted, now that I have typed it out, soz.

circular saw works.

just tryin to see if there might be someone in the same town that might be able to help. i don't use my torch enough, i'd love to fire it up and point it at a frame.

My wife does mosaics with thick ceramic tiles, and thus had a really neat set of tile cutters that were like big, f*ckoff wirecutters but with the cutting edge perpendicular to the handles.

...

Ah, here's an image of a set:
http://www.sculpt.com/pictures/Mosaic_Merc/4205048.jpg

Anyway, I used those to remove my braze-ons and they popped off with minimal effort. A few strokes with a file afterwards and all was smooth. That seems to be the easiest method, as far as I'm concerned, but I accept no liability for anyone following my advice and jacking up their frame.

That said, I only removed the braze-ons because the frame I'm building up right now is a 1976 era Nishiki Internation and I have NO INTENTIONS of ever restoring it to it's original "glory". I happen to have a grip of frames and other parts hanging around my house -- I would not recommend removing braze-ons to anyone who does not mind utterly and irrevocably destroying the "collector" or restoritive value of their frame.

Thanks for all the advice. I think I'll try the torch. My Brother is a plumber, so he plays with the torch regularly.
My info: I reside in Springfield, Oregon. I have a 12 minute commute, and I try to commute to work 3 days a week. I've really enjoyed cycling over the past year. I'm currently riding a Specialized Hardrock that's set up with a pair of 1.5 inch smooth armadillos. I'm really excited to get this project on the road.
Thanks again.