Hi Ken,
On the Moulton, I myself have more than intimate knowledge, hands on with the modern (almost classic) spaceframe machines as trade and service them in my shop. I have cross posted this to the Moulton Mail List for a real answer. This topic is discussed somewhat frequently.
Moulton Preservation sold me some fine remade (40 years or so) upper and lower replacement fitting that are nylon serrated bearings to fit some of my F-frame Moulton models. The squeak is likely due to lack of lubrication for about three decades in the steer tube area.
I have a few F frame Moulton models with this problem but I have had little time to service them. Members of the Moulton list can give good advice on service. I suspect there is good chance the original parts are salvageable.
On the BB, some cups from some older and more recent models use a non ISO thread in the BB shell I understand (comments please). All use 1/4 inch ball bearing (standard) and your axle of choice should fit as long as you have some flexibility in it's length in regard to your crank. There are pitfalls (comments again please) unique to some models.
I hope this is some help. I can supply some fitting for this bike if needed. Please let me know your needs.
Yours in Moultoneering,
Gilbert Anderson
The North Road Bicycle Company your bicycle outfitter 519 W. North St. Raleigh, NC 27603 USA ph toll free in USA :800/321-5511 Local ph: 919/828-8999 E-Mail: cyclestore@aol.com
In a message dated 11/18/01 4:15:12 AM, kstagg@harbornet.com writes:
<< I'll take a flyer that we can safely discuss a classic Moulton since they're listed at the CR site. I just traded for a Speed 4 - less the front carrier of course. Other than an interesting battleship grey repaint the one thing that I really need to fix is a sqeak in the front suspension. Anyone out there have a simple fix? If not, instructions for a more complex one? After that I may be looking to put a new crankset on it (this will be my scoot-around-town bike so it won't be a true restoration.) What odds on cotterless BB's? Spindles for the current cups?
Ken Stagg in DRY Tacoma!?!? >>