which are the weakest link?
pads.
Vote 2 for pads. Dura ace or koolstop.
The dia-compe levers can get the rattle of death (not dangersous, just irritating as h-e double hockey sticks) after a while. You might opt for a lever with a nice return spring if you feel the need to upgrade.
I just found some kool stop pads and tektro carbon/aero levers on ebay. the levers have a return spring. thanks for the advice!