Frame repairs

I've just got hold of an old 531 Raleigh Record Ace frame, but it has a little dent in the top tube. Does this mean the frame is worthless, or can it be fixed cheaply?

It's also a little rusty - just surface, not serious - and I'm looking to get the braze-ons removed, too. I was thinking of having it resprayed, so could I get it repaired at the same time?

We'd need to see a picture of this dent to really tell you but it doesnt sound structurally compromising. If you want to get it re-sprayed, most places (mario vaz definitely does) will take the braze-ons off too. He could probably fix the dent as well. The surface rust isnt a problem. You could cut the braze-ons off yourself, would save a few quid at the refinishers. Just make sure you use a hacksaw to cut them off then file down the stumps. Dont just file off the whole lot :)

you could saw the brazers off yurself if you wanted to save money...metal saw and sandpaper

i know with cars you can get dents removed using lazers and its cheaper than pannel beating and doesn't chip paint (my next door neighbour does it) i dunno you could try to contact somone to ask if they'd do it for a small dent?!

To do it with lasers all you need is one of these:

Haha just follow the instructions in this video:

blu-ray phaser

all for under a hundred bucks! ha!

"i've boldly gone where no body has gone before'

a worthy reason to trash a PS3 i reckon

that...is illogical, Captain

The frame is not worth much, and by removing braze-ons, repairing the dent and repainting you'll likely spend more than it's worth. If you only want a cheap job, remove the braze-ons with a hacksaw then a file and some sandpaper, leave the dent (or use some filler on it) then send the frame off for a powdercoat paintjob. All-in cost should be about £40, wheras a full soup-to-nuts refurb by Argos or similiar would be more like £140