1992 GT Pantera AL project

[sparkybhp]

Just picked this up - it’s a 18.5” c/c frame so I’m not sure if it’ll be a bit small for me. Should be a good project, a lot of the original stuff is still there and the wheelset and shifters have been upgraded to XT737 at some point - lovely.
Does anyone have experience of rebuilding this type of Tange suspension fork? It’s completely collapsed - I’m guessing new elastomers will be needed, anyone have any advice on parts availability? More pics and stuff to follow as I delve into the strip down..

 

[sparkybhp]

Had a bit of time to make a start on this and it’s really coming together. Although, I don’t think I’ve ever worked on a filthier bike, it was caked in gloop all over!
Went for some chromo-steel forks in blue that I had, the Tange sus forks were pretty roached..
Will be putting this back to LX spec 3x7 with parts I already have, the wheels are black LX hubs on M400 rims.
I’ll keep this updated as I go.

 

[sparkybhp]

She’s up and together! With a LOT of cleaning and some fettling and just a few new parts. I’ve got to say - it rides really nicely, I don’t normally like rigid alu frames, too stiff, but this one feels really good somehow. And I’m normally happier on a large frame - but this medium is a good fit.
Happy with this.
18” frame, steel forks, Kore stem, Zoom bars, Onza bar ends, Deore LX 3x7 brifters, Tange headset, Kalloy 26.8 seatpost, LX and DX mechs, DX front brakes and rear Exage U-brake, Parralax LX hubs and Mavic M400 rims, WTB Primalraptor tyres, Exage 500LX cranks, pedals and seat are just basic parts I had.
She’s a bit of a mix and match bike but I can change out parts as and when they show up. Future plans are a bit of touching up of the paint and decals and a GT saddle from 1992 is on its way.