Kurt Sperry asks: How many people here have personally as opposed to it happening to a friend, cousin etc. had classic steel frames experience an actual structural failure due solely to rust? I've never seen or heard of it happening but have learned not to put much weight in my own narrow anecdotal experience. If Fraysee is anywhere close to correct there should be hundreds or more probably thousands of such tales out there to be related by list members. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ I'm not a frame-builder, and don't work in the industry. But, I've been known to wield a torch from time to time. Our experience at Chez Sachs includes:
--> 50s Schwinn Town & Country tandem, rusted out at top of front seat cluster (lugless 4130 frame) --> Schwinn T&C tandem that had been preserved in cosmoline; cracks in boob tube. --> Atala, early 60s top-line model, right chainstay rotted out after rechroming; apparently not adequately flushed. --> 65 Chrome Schwinn Paramount, crack-failure near head, top tube failed. But not a rust issue. --> Raleigh Gran Sport (white and blue touring bike at same price level as the Competition), probably late 70s. Right chainstay cap rusted out, don't remember what I did on that - acquaintance's bike. --> Off-topic Bike Friday, very early production, seat tube failed with lateral crack; fixed with 3/4 sleeve brazed in place. Patch made from Steerer of totally wasted Colnago frame. Gauge too heavy, not going to redo it.
there may have been others, but not many in 40 years.
harvey sachs,
mcLean VA