'96 Orange P7 and M950 Front mech help

Hi, hope someone with more knowledge can help !

whilst restoring a '96 P7 I have come across an issue with the front mech.

I bought a top pull XTR M950 front mech (31.8 diameter as per the orange website), but when I offer it up to the frame it is too small. (the mech clap is fine and true)

As the M950 mounts a lower (under the lower bottle cage thread) it appears that where the tube meets the bottom bracket is splays out a little and is no longer perfectly cylindrical.

Is the P7 just not compatible with this mech? Is the frame deformed ( or did Orange make P7's like this?). The welds look fine and did not notice any uneven distortion?

I guess if it isn't compatible I could get the BB mounted version, or something a little older like the M900?

Any pointers would help :xmas-wink:

yeah if the mech has to mount that low on the seat tube that it's on the ovalised section then you may have to replace the mech with the bottom swing version, what you have is a top swing version.

Thanks for the prompt help jonnyboy666!

looks like its off to the for sale forum for swaps!!! viewtopic.php?f=2&t=281684

At least the frame is true!

Old thread I know.....but did you ever find out what size mech you needed?
Got the same problem.
Cheers.

Re:

Ended up going with the higher mounted traditional m900 front mec, that mounted just fine. And was already running m900 bb and crankset. Paired up to m950 shifters, works a treat. Still a daily rider now. Good luck with yours!