WANTED: 40s or 50s Schwinn DX frame (or equiv) for Klunker

[SummitCoCycleWorks]

Hi Friends,

I am searching for a 40s or 50s era Schwinn-built DX style frame. Doesn't matter what it's badged- Schwinn, BF Goodrich, Excelsior, American Flyer, whatever- and it will most likely get repainted unless the original paint is in awesome shape or looks rad. My intensions are for this to be a real trail rider so structural integrity is a must and therefore I'm looking specifically for a frame where the seat stays are mitered and welded into the back of the seat tube- not tacked onto either side of the seat tube like you would see on something like a Schwinn Spitfire or the like from the same era. Sorry for the lack of a picture example here- I promise to upload some photos later this evening.

Because this will be a total overhaul including replacement of the headset, fork, bottom bracket and drivetrain I don't necessarily need a complete or almost-complete bike but I would certainly consider it if it was the only way to get my hands on the right frame. I'm open to all reasonable prices and also would be willing to trade a pre-war American Flyer frame with (perhaps the original? I'm not sure) Schwinn-built springer fork.

Thanks again for looking and to everyone on this site for all the invaluable knowledge over the years. I'll be sure to post photos tonight of examples of the frame I'm looking for and of my frame and springer I'm willing to trade.

Cheers,
Ryan

[abe lugo]

There a couple on eBay right now, I though klunkers are usually prewar frames preferably a 1939 DX, just wondering

[B607]

Prewar Schwinn frames have higher ground clearance than the postwar type. I think that's the main reason they used them for Klunkers. Gary

[SummitCoCycleWorks]

Hi All,

Just wanted to say that member "46powerwagon " came through huge with a 1941 Henderson-badged Schwinn DX frame for my new build. Awesome guy to work with- super responsive to all inquiries, shipped fast and did an AMAZING job packing up the frame securely. Looking forward to working with him again in the future. Below are a few pics of how it arrived. Look out for a new build thread from me soon to watch the progress.







I'll look around for info in the "How-to" section as well but does anyone have a good way to brighten these tarnished old head badges? I tried a little Brasso yesterday and it lifted enough of the tarnish off to see that the head badge was once painted beautifully but the brass (bronze?) is still very dull. I'm sure there's a way to polish these up...

Thanks

[Jpromo]

That's an awesome frame. I'm gonna be looking for about the same thing for the same type of project. I started gathering parts and then discovered the frame I had plans for was a 24"er

As far as polishing goes, I've had really good luck with NO.7 polishing compound to get the heavy stuff cleared up, then following that up with brasso and a dremel polishing tip. Then maybe finishing up with some wadding polish if you have it. Brings them back to life! Just be tender around the paint where present.

[B607]

Henderson was a motorcycle company that Schwinn bought in the teens or 20's. Schwinn also bought Excelsior motorcycle company and was big in motorcycles until one of their test drivers got killed in a race. Old Ignaz Schwinn couldn't handle the carnage and pulled the plug on the motorcycle business...which is what probably saved Harley Davidson and Indian from going under. Gary

[46powerwagon]

Thanks Ryan for the positive feedback. I really appreciate it. I know what it is like to have everything come together. Don't hesitate to contact me for any questions or parts.
Take care,
Gary