With the engine done, it was time to start making some progress on the frame. I wanted to remove all extraneous bits that I wouldn't be using, so I removed the left side passenger peg mount. I kept the right side as a mount point for the exhaust. I removed the airbox mount points as I'll be using pods. I also removed the seat lock, helmet hanger and some of the chain guard mounting tabs.
I also wanted to relocate the ignition and choke since the stock '77 has them up near the gauges and I want to clean that area up. I wasn't sure where to mount them and was concerned about them interfering with or being interfered by other components. Unfortunately, the only way to make sure that didn't happen was to get the engine into the frame and do a mini mock-up.
I mentioned earlier in the thread that there is no way my back is going to cooperate with moving that engine, so I stole an idea from another member on the board and fabricated a sling contraption to allow me to install the engine without using any of my puny muscles.
Here are some pics:
Worked like a charm! I can't recommend this enough. Took me about 3 hours to put the whole assembly together using some galvanized pipe, 3/8" (I think) bar, some eye bolts and webbing strap. Once completed, I was able to install the engine in about 20 minutes without much effort (I think once I get the hang of it, I'll be able to get that time down significantly). Removal was done in a matter of a few minutes.
So I was able to determine a good spot for the ignition and choke...left hand side right between the tank and seat. I fabbed up a mounting plate and welded it in:
Here is a wide shot showing a bit of the bike starting to take shape: