Spread 'Em

[2wheelwill]

I'm sure this has been discussed before but I would like to hear from someone who has actually tried to run a 130mm rear hub (ie, a Shimano/Sram 10spd wheel) on an older frame with 126mm spacing.

I've heard you need to "cold set" the frame which I believe means I'm permantly bending the stays apart. Others seem to suggest you can just squeeze the 130 hub onto the 126 frame and it will fit tight but work.

Can someone tell me for certain if the squeeze-it-in technique works. I'm considering purchasing an older Merckx frame and want to run Sram Force components. Is this wishful thinking?

Thanks!