Ok so updates.
Today I managed to strip off the fd, shifters, brakes and seat tube.
Had a good old clean of all the chrome, including shifting most of the rust
gave a semi deep clean to the wheels, needs a little more work to get to where I would like to be. unfortunately there has been some sort of corrosive spill on the rear at some point, and the lacquer has suffered as a result. the wheels have come up gorgeous otherwise.
The stem is well and truly wedged in. upon flipping the frame to try to get penetrating oil in, discovered a massive peg of wood blocking access to the inside of the steerer. gonna have to figure something out here. Research says the wood came stock, i have no idea how deep it goes in. troublesome. ideas? have tried all sorts but thinking drilling out might be the last and only resort here.
I don't have anything that fits in the small space allowed for a socket in the crank arms to get the bolts out, so they're staying put for now. This is only really a pain for cleaning properly, as the bb is buttery and smooth as hell, so just more toothbrush scrubbing i suppose.
What I now know;
The bike would have most likely started out as a 82-83 Team Champion stock bike.
All but the shifters, fd, brakes and stem are different from stock
Those hubs are beautiful, and very very very smooth. the front wheel rests at tube valve down every time.
I have a theory this was used for fast racing, maybe the odd criterium or tt, based on lightweight components and serious lack of range on the freewheel cassette.
Picture updates to follow tomorrow!
