80's peugeot (dumb questions)

[spudgun]

Hi all, picked up an early 80's peugeot in very good order.Even the chrome is in good condition,

Have got some replacement wheels which were a bit wider than the originals but fitted ok.I would like to replace the cranks but I'm not familiar with this bottom bracket setup.Can I replace these with someting more modern and lighter? If so what would I need ?Also if I put an 8 speed cassette on the back will the original shifter /mech work ok. It was 5 speed

 

[drøn]

you have cottered cranks. you have to replace the bottom bracket to a never one with a square taper (or other system) to change the cranks.

 

[spudgun]

Will any system work,do I need a specific size?

 

[drøn]

you need a specific threading.
i guess you need a french threaded bottom bracket (rare, but just reintroduced by ben's cycles)
that's just a guess based on the peugeot being french. someone else will know for shure.

 

[cyclone]

could be a swiss sized BB if mid 80's but as it had cottered cranks i'd say french....

 

[spudgun]

I've decided to leave the chainset as is.It cleaned up like new and works perfectly.I kinda like the look of it as well. I've fitted the new wheels with an 8 speed rear cassette and apart from only being able to select 7 of the 8 ratios all's well.Went for a leisurely 10 miler yesterday and was smooth as butter.No rattles bangs or squeaks anywhere. Strangely I'm becoming rather fond of it

 

[Tel]

Don't want to be patronising but you have tried adjusting the limit screws on the rear mech to cover the 8 gears haven't you?

 

[spudgun]

Don't want to be patronising but you have tried adjusting the limit screws on the rear mech to cover the 8 gears haven't you?

To be honest Tel,I've been meaning to but never got round to it,will have a go tomorrow