Update: I got a nice deal on some Schwalbe Land Cruiser Tires in 26 x 1.75 from my LBS.
I have cleaned up this old Trek. It looks like it was a college bike at one time and sat outside so I am dealing with some rust. I have pedals, chain and brake pads as well as the tires to install as well as some handlebars I have not yet ordered.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074YYNWDM...v_ov_lig_dp_it
Question: I do not think I have any use for the two smaller front chainrings. Is there any reason that I I shouldn't remove them as well as the front derailer and try to position the large chainring more inboard for better chain alignment? Or, is there a replacement single chainring with pedal arm and possibly a guard that I should locate instead? I see the 1X9 setup in the post above this and like it very much.