Conversions... what's the problem?

What really gets me is that many people want to convert an old bike because it will be cheaper.
I have to admit that as I do work in a bike shop, I'm mostly having the conversion conversation with people whose mechanical knowledge is limited to punctures. So they tend to be very surprised that it will cos. Them nearl. As much as an otp track bike to convert their bike properly.
There are bodges (of course!), and if you're a good mechanic you can do things that will just about work for cheaper, but going into a proper bike shop means we will have to tell you to do things properly.
This means a new wheelset with the proper spacing and reverse threads for a lock ring, a single chainring crank set with a bb with the right axle length.

Sorry for the rant, but I find myself doing a certain amount of handholding with people that think conversions are a cheap and easy way to get rolling.

I've found myself doing the same conversion conversation over and over again, and half the time people don't listen. And on the business side of things, it allways takes up a lot of time and unless you can convince them to join the plug brigade you get nothing out of it other than the satisfaction of helping people. My boss doesn't like it when people leave the shop happy without buying something shiny