Well, I got the bike back together (see my ‘First Ride’ thread) with new waxed chain and the chain DOES clear the frame on the smallest, 13-tooth freewheel cog, yippee! But unfortunately the chain cannot shift to the next larger 14-tooth cog because it binds in the frame making the jump, boooo! So indeed, a longer axle is needed. Until I get the axle issue sorted, I will adjust the derailleur so that it stops at the 14-tooth cog, making my 10 speed bike an 8 speed bike for the time being.
Thanks again one and all for your input, I am learning a lot!
Last edited by Biker Pete; 03-05-24 at 03:20 PM.