This is just a word of thanks to all who had contacted me recently about my search for a specifically geared (14-31) Regina freewheel, correct for my '71 Schwinn P15-9 Touring Paramount. I now have what I needed and the story is worth relating.
While stopping by one of the older local bike shops which I occasionally browse for interesting vintage bikes left on consignment, I asked about any old freewheels or even loose cogs they may still have stored in the back room - even anything used. I was invited back into the shop area and was astonished to find a tattered corrugated box full of dust... and NOS Regina Oro cogs.
The owner had only one freewheel body - which he did not wish to sell. However, after a brief bit of begging, he agreed to break down and use one of my own Oro two-prong bodies which was currently built up in it's original "racing" range (13-21) format.
After a few days, I was notified the freewheel was ready. Total price for the replacement of 5 cogs, including the re-build (and my own cogs returned): $25.
So, once again, it had proved worth while for me to regularly buy small items (eg: tubes, bar tape, water bottles) both to help out a small local shop, and moreover to become a familiar face to the staff who are then more likely to go out of their way to do those petty or bothersome 'favors' which we may sometimes need.
Cheers!
Bob Hanson, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA