Topic: 77k/78f Neck swap

[badfsh]

So I picked up a running K7 in pretty good shape that I am going to use for a cafe/brat conversion. Problem is it came with no title. I have a line on a cheap 78f frame w/ title. While the frame is not usable the neck looks good. So my question is... can I swap these necks out easily. Do you think swapping the data plates will be enough if I bondo over the numbers on the neck. Anyone have any experience with this? Thanks for any advice.

[mono]

it'll work unless you get a thorough inspector who knows to compare the plate# to the stamp #, then you're screwed and may even impound the bike if they're feeling jerky/depending on state law.

best bet is to get the heads swapped to the frames by a professional welder.  make sure they use internal reinforcements where the cuts were made.

** edit -- sorry, i may have misread your question.   you can also get someone with a plasma cutter to cut out the stamped # and weld it into the other tube -- but they have to be GOOD.

[Bankerdanny]

Do a search on the forum for "new Hampshire title" or just send a PM to Tews19 and ask him, since I know he did it successfully. Basically NH has some very generous rules for issuing plates and registrations to out of state folks. NH doesn't issue titles, just the plate and registration document. However, most states will then allow you to trade that for a proper in-state plate and title.

That route is much simpler, cheaper, and safer, than a head tube swap.

[mono]

Do a search on the forum for "new Hampshire title" or just send a PM to Tews19 and ask him, since I know he did it successfully. Basically NH has some very generous rules for issuing plates and registrations to out of state folks. NH doesn't issue titles, just the plate and registration document. However, most states will then allow you to trade that for a proper in-state plate and title.

That route is much simpler, cheaper, and safer, than a head tube swap.

^^ yes, or that 

[754]

Hat does the good number frame need? Some frame repairs are way less work. Than a neck swap.

[badfsh]

Thanks for the replies. I have looked into the New Hampshire title option and have read elsewhere that Louisiana will not always accept the new paperwork if the vehicle was previously titled as mine was 10 years ago.
As far as the 78f frame goes the PO did a real bad job trying to install a brace for a mono shock and there is some heavy rust and corrosion on the bottom. Even so it is my understanding that not everything will be a direct swap from a 77k to a 78f.

On another note someone suggested I try to bondo over old stamped #s and "restamp" them so as to have matching #s? Can this be done? Would a body shop do this or is it illegal? As always thanks for the input.

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[lucky]

I do not want to join Face book to see your project.

[754]

 What are you building...bone stock?
 One noticeable difference is sidestand mount, further back on Fmodel, maybe slight difference in rake,, sidecover. And pipe mounts will be a bit different.
 But , it may not even really matter that much to you.
 
 Around here altered number can cause a lot of grief, but you may get your bike back a year later, wont be any paint on the neck..
 That bondo on the numbers idea, sounds like the guy is on crack....

[seanbarney41]

...as soon as you complete any of the above possibilities there will be 10 or so titled frames and 5 parts bikes on craigslist for less than $250...might just want to sit tight for a while

[78whiteorbs]

I would strongly discourage you from modifying the stamped numbers or switching plates. In some circumstances, the bike will be impounded and unsaleable. Those are factory numbers and the plates and stamps must match.

Seek a professional to swap the necks with the rest of the frame (if the damaged area can't be repaired). It's a "proper" solution and alleviates you from future legs problems. Any time I have ever bought a used vehicle or motorcycle, I always check VINs, stamps etc for alteration. It's the auto thief's first action to alter numbers. And bonds won't hold up to powder coating in the future at whichever time a new owner could report you for selling a "altered or stolen" bike.

I don't know the laws in AB, nor very state here in the USA, but much better to proceed legally and correctly where frame numbers are concerned.

FWIW

+1 they impound and x-ray suspicious frames here in NC . These guys know what to look for too. Best option would be find another frame like seanbarney suggested- It's not worth the legal ramifications if things go south. Anytime you alter a VIN it is a serious offense. I just did a motor swap onto a good frame .
from one that couldn't be titled. Just cut the old one n half and post pictures here when you remove the engine.

[MiGhost]

...as soon as you complete any of the above possibilities there will be 10 or so titled frames and 5 parts bikes on craigslist for less than $250...might just want to sit tight for a while

+1
It is coming to the end of riding season. The market will soon get flooded with bikes that people do not want to have to deal with storage for the winter.

[badfsh]

First off thank you all for the advice so far. After thinking about it and considering the potential consequences I have decided not to purchase the neck and title. That being said I had two more questions, when looking into New Hampshire titles I came across a few title services that will seem to work with Louisiana. But one in particular was much less expensive, Motorecyclenow.com. Has anyone ever used this service or could you point me in the direction of a reputable title service?

My second question is when looking at used titled frames, which frames are compatible with the 77k components? I know this information is available but I was hoping someone could quickly clarify it for me. I would be looking to do as little modification as possible. For a straight swap out do I have to stay in the 77-78 model years? What modifications would be necessary if I went with an earlier or F frame? As always thanks for the help.   

[78whiteorbs]

First off thank you all for the advice so far. After thinking about it and considering the potential consequences I have decided not to purchase the neck and title. That being said I had two more questions, when looking into New Hampshire titles I came across a few title services that will seem to work with Louisiana. But one in particular was much less expensive, Motorecyclenow.com. Has anyone ever used this service or could you point me in the direction of a reputable title service?

My second question is when looking at used titled frames, which frames are compatible with the 77k components? I know this information is available but I was hoping someone could quickly clarify it for me. I would be looking to do as little modification as possible. For a straight swap out do I have to stay in the 77-78 model years? What modifications would be necessary if I went with an earlier or F frame? As always thanks for the help.   

you are right to stick with the 77-78K frames.