newB questions about first bike build

[dfinn]

I think I have almost all the parts to put together my new XC/trail bike. The two things I'm unsure of at this point are

1. cables? What should I buy? I'm stealing parts from an existing bike, can I use cables from that or should I just start out with new ones. I'll be running SRAM x.9 shifters, SRAM x.9 rear, XT front and avid mechs. Should I get something like this:
http://www.123bikes.com/details.php?startpage=bikes&item_id=39
they have it in a brake and a derailleur kit.

2. chain. The chain on my current bike that I am stealing parts from to build this new bike is fairly new, as is the casette. Do I need to buy a new chain or can I use the one I have. Is there a special tool used to take the chain apart?

thanks and sorry if these seem stupid. i'll learn eventually.

[binary visions]

Always buy new cables, they're cheap and old cables are the chief source of shifting problems.

If you're putting a new cassette on, you should probably start with a new chain. If you're moving the old cassette, the old chain is fine.

You'll need a chain breaking tool to pup the chain links apart and put them back together. Buy a nice one - the cheap ones are difficult to use and will cause you a headache. Your local shop will have chain breaking tools.

[Repack]

IMHO, cable "systems" only make a difference on a few bikes. I prefer stainless cables. The cable routing on my gf's Epic basicly mandates the use of some sort of sealed system. The r derr housing goes under the bb shell and is constantly being blasted by crap off of the f wheel. The housing lasts 40 miles max. Unless you bike has poor cable routing, I feel that systems like the Avids are not worth it.

[dfinn]

good to know. none of the LBS around me carried anything like that so I just went with standard cables and housing.