First, let me assure the list that I am not pulling anyone's leg. On this particular 3Rensho I am pleased with the seat lug and bottom bracket but every day I ride the bike I am shocked and dismayed by the two headtube lugs. They look like they were done by another builder. The bike is beautiful in every way except for these two damn lugs. I need to repaint, and I can not see any moral reason not to thin these two lugs. I will practice on a junker bike, I will use frame blocks, proper files, good instruction etc. All my life people have told me that this or that is impossible or out of my reach. I am not going to let this barrage discourage me or doubt my abilities. In the past I have rebuilt a 71 MGB engine on my first attempt at doing any automotive work, and later passed the ASE exam for such. I have rewired my house after passing an owner builder exam to get a permit to do it. I have painted bikes, built and or repaired delicate electronics/ tube stuff. I have healed major issues with my back (5th lumbar vertebrae) after the doctor said it wasn't possible. I really don't care if it takes 4 hours to thin a lug properly or 4 days. I will post before and after photos and the list can decide if I was up to the task. I am sure some will applaud me and some will think me insane. That's the way it is and the way it will always be. Classic Rendezvous has its share of cheerleaders and curmudgeons. I like it that way. Maybe if I can convert just one curmudgeon ...
Garth Libre in Miami Fl USA