Originally Posted by
cyccommute
In what world are dropouts replaceable? Not the derailer hanger but the forged dropout.
Right down the street at our LBS. Or any LBS that has an older mechanic or frame builder with welding/brazing skills, knowledge and tools. Good ones can make the repair and you would never know it had ever been damaged. (I don't know if they teach that in the newer technical/vocational schools or not.)
Even my brother-in-law could do it with his "non-cycling" background in welding, I've seen him do much more intricate, precise and demanding pieces under the shade tree by his barn. Except, of course, he would leave the finishing, polishing and painting to someone else.