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Got a single XT set I'm happy to part with. I'll need to dig it out.

Don't get me wrong, I 100% agree that it's a sign of mechanical nous and broader competence! Too many mechanics are simply parts fitters.

...and now you can the warm feeling of knowing something that your bike shop mechanic doesn't.

In fairness, it's fettling something that was sold probably before they were born and 40 years ago. Similarly, I would struggle to set up an Osgear.

OK, I think I know what's going on. The lever can be mounted in 4 positions on the square boss. At the same time, it can rotate about 300 degrees on the centre, then it hits a stop. If you get it 90 degrees out the lever will not sit on the stop. Remove the lever, refit it 90 degrees round and...

Yes. The grade is the tolerance. Typical Weldtite ones are VERY badly toleranced.

Hub cones. Try SJS Cycles. For bearing balls I use my local trading estate bearing factor for loose balls in the best grade available (typically 10 Grade) - I bought 100 or so a few years ago and am still working my way through them. He also sells online: https://www.hendersonbearings.co.uk/...

Why not either: add a spacer (above or below the stem on the steerer) or simply shorten the steerer?

There are two issues with cantis - firstly loss of force and secondly mechanical advantage (leverage). Canti cable tensions are higher than Vs and a smooth cable run with gentle curves really makes a difference in reducing frictional losses. For example, shorten that rear outer into a smooth...

Hmm, nice frame but a vanilla name. I'm sure it will ride really well, but the world is full of old rim-braked racing bikes. I wouldn't pay more than £200. Clearly it's not been cleaned up or maintained in a while, and it's been stored somewhere damp. It will need all the bearings opened up and...

IIRC Elswick also used two letters as a date code.