Early xs gauge mounts

[willis]

i am kicking around some ideas in my head and was contemplating what would be involved in switching my ‘75 gauge cluster/dash over to an earlier style with just the switch and speedo/tach? I love my 75 but in my opinion I think the center dash is the ugly part of the bike. I love the simplicity of the early xs with just the gauges and ignition switch. The 75 gauge cluster has two mounting bosses that mount on the topside of the triple clamp. How do the early gauges mount? Best I can see from pictures is the early mount bracket uses the handlebar riser bolts to secure. Has anyone done this before? Is it as simple as mounting the early gauge mounts to my triple or would I need to swap the entire top tree? Like I said, just kicking around ideas in my head here.

 

[Beags64]

Not the greatest pics...

Looked at the '71 in the shed, yes they do attach under the risers. Might not be too difficult to do.

 

[willis]

Thanks Beags that helps. Is the finned bottom of the gauges a rubber boot or is it just part of the housings?

 

[Mailman]

Hi Willis, here are some of my photos, just to help you see what’s what. If you’re looking for early guesses on eBay, brace yourself! Most sellers know how rare this stuff is. Good luck!

 

[Mailman]

Oh and by the way, that finned black part is plastic.

 

[gggGary]

willis 72-75 triples won't swap, IIRC the centers AND offset are different.

 

[willis]

You are the man Bob. Exactly what I was looking for. I’m not worried about original gauges. I see several mount brackets for sale really cheap. I’m just not a big fan of the 75 dash plate. It’s big and bulky and I just am not fond of it. I’m also considering the 76 dash as an option. The more triangular dash still has indicators on it while not being so noticeable. It also bring the gauges a little closer together. Again, I’ve not decided to Change it yet. Just looking at options. Of course if I do change I want to have the option to return it to original equipment.

 

[willis]

willis 72-75 triples won't swap, IIRC the centers AND offset are different.

Thanks Gary. That may push me a little more towards the 76 dash swap then. It would be nice to just changing a couple bolts.