As it turns out all the existing components (except for the ignition switch itself) would plug into the new dash panel without modification. I needed a couple of small mounting clamps but that was all. The existing wiring could be re-routed, but had to be extended about 10 inches to reach the new switch position. Fortunately that was accomplished by simply making up 3 extension wires and did not require any mods to the existing harness. (I don’t expect to ever revert back to stock, but keeping my options open seemed the best way to go.)
Of course, when at the dealer poring over parts books trying to determine what components could be re-used and which ones not, I came across this nice combined speedo/tachometer unit.
A simple drop-in, it addressed the issue of losing my tach after I made the change. I hadn’t planned on purchasing a new speedo but then I thought, in for a penny… so I bought it. (And a big shout-out here to the parts people at Freedom Harley-Davidson for being so helpful. Thanks guys, I really would have been stumbling around without your assistance.)
Once I got the garage cleaned up a bit so I could work (here) it didn’t take long to make the change.
Button it all up again and here’s what it looks like now – before and after.
I really like the new look and the convenience of the new switch position. Meanwhile I’m busy getting rid of all the removed parts (on eBay, of course) to recover a large part of my investment.
So now I have a clean garage and a motorcycle all ready to go. WHAT’S SPRING WAITING FOR? If it doesn’t get here soon I may just have to find another project.
Looks good, I think I like the 'after' look better as well ... but simple, I don't believe that for a moment!
ReplyDeleteVSL - Well, let's just say it was easier than I expected it to be.
ReplyDeleteWow its looking awesome!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Dar.
DeleteGotta say, I really like the new look.
ReplyDeleteThanks Richard. Came out as well, or better than I expected.
DeleteVery nice! Clean, functional, and sleek. What more could one want.
ReplyDeleteThanks David.
DeleteVery professional looking job, Dave. Well done!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gary.
DeleteVery nice. Always a good day when it turns out to be easier than expected.
ReplyDeleteNow if your snow would just melt so you could ride all would be well.
Back into the deep freeze again today unfortunately. But spring is coming, I keep telling myself.
DeleteCanajun:
ReplyDeleteNice farkle. It's nice to have a tach even though you can shift by "sound". I'd imagine you can calibrate that speedo to an accurate MPH reading ?, as most bike speedos are optimistic
Spring will be here next Thursday, not much longer to wait
bob
A weekend photographer or Riding the Wet Coast
Bob - Not sure about calibration, but I don't think so.Will have to RTFM (Read the __ manual).
DeleteNice work. I'd love to add a tach to my Stage II Road King
ReplyDeleteMy brothers RK doesn't have a tach and although I found I could shift by feel I really noticed its absence when I rode it. So yeah, a tach is pretty much essential for a manual-shift vehicle of any sort imo.
DeleteVer nice look. I certainly am no wrencher, but I can admire. Ebay seems to be the place to find the this and thats.
ReplyDeleteKT Did - eBay is now my go-to place for nearly everything. Amazing what can be found there.
Delete