First Timer 80s Raleigh Conversion

• I wouldn't trust a seatpost that had been subject to aggressive removal: do yourself a favour and bin it.
  
  

Build this as cheaply as possible; ride it much as possible; then build a 2.0 with a nice frame, a nice paintjob and quality components using what you have learned from 1.0.

It'll be cheap still - don't panic. And yeah definitely
Ordering a new seat post. Cleaning it up has revealed I need a 27.0 diameter post - so that's one benefit.

Do what you want on that frame...

A quick risk / benefit analysis on the chain stay bridge removal = keep it!

The chain stay bridge isn't actually a bridge - it's only attached to one side of the frame so can't be offering any structural support.

What size BB did you end up getting? 68 X103 or 107mm. I'm curious cause I'm doing the same project on my early 90's Raleigh and I'm also using the stock crank and 40 tooth chain ring. Wanting to get the best chain line possible.
Tony..

The one recommended to me by the bike shop measures 68x113mm