Minimal clearance - how?

I really want to, but it's a bit crap right now. I found it in a skip so it will need respraying! It's the only bike Ive got so I want to make sure it's all working great and built to size. Also there's no bottom bracket but I'll be able to sort that myself :]

I'll be the 'dad' then.

As you found it in a skip, unless you're very lucky, it's made out of gas pipe and doesn't fit you properly. I'd really just get it in to a rideable state, and if you do want to spend money on it, make sure it's on parts you can transfer over on to a new frame.

I really, really, wouldn't worry about the clearence on your front fork