Greg,
That's exactly correct. Never heard of anyone else useing this method but the old man must have liked to be contrary. He was a funny guy (yes, both in humor and odd traits here and there). He was quite a character. Rather short at age 65 but very animated and always had a twinkle in his eye. What I wouldn't give to go back in time with what I know now. The questions would be comming out so fast the old man would be screaming "uncle" before too long. I also would have made whatever effort neccessary to secure the Masi Special track frame that came through for new chainstays; being one of only 2 that were ever made with the "flutes" going through the chainstays. Now that would be a rare item!
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA