I've considered putting things back together, but I simply have never gotten around to buying the proper tools. In fact, when I feel the need to take my computer casing apart I have to loosen the screws with the tips of some bush-clippers, and gently pry with my fingertips. It's even harder to get the screws back in that way.

The bike was ancient, and too small for me, and overall a great bit of fun to take apart. Granted I was without wheels for a week or so before my father brought up another (which I did not take apart or wash), but, like you, my father has several bikes at any given time. Most are English three-speeds. When I was growing up he would stick different parts together whenever I outgrew my current bike. I was...10? 12? when I finally got an 18 speed, and then couldn't make any sense of the gears (still can't). I'd take those old English three-speeds any day -- simple, sturdy, reliable.

Regards,
Tyler