Topic: Left Swich Mounting

[Clarkie7000]

Hi, my first post. I just bought a '76 CB400F in pretty good condition, but found that the left switch (indicators, horn, lights high/low) needed replacement. I got a new original switch from David Silver but now realise that my bars are not standard as the switch seems to require a hole or a recess for the wires and another hole for a locating pin.

My questions is, what are your suggestions for making the new switch fit (I'd prefer not to have to buy new bars). the options I see are as follows:

1. drill hole in side of switch to allow wires out of the side and grind down locating pin until switch fits on bars (I am worried that the assembly won't stay in position if I do this)
2. drill hole in side of switch to allow wires out of the side and drill hole in bars to allow for locating pin (I am worried that I will have damaged the integrity of the bars and they might crack after going over potholes etc)
3. use old switch base (drilled out by a previous owner) and order new bars. fit complete new assembly upon receipt of bars. (I'd prefer not to spend the money on new bars at this time as the wife is already looking at much I have spent...)
4. drill big hole in bottom of bars to allow for wires to run through bars to the centre of the console (even more worried out bars breaking).

I am keen to get this fixed ASAP so I can start riding it, so I am very keen to hear your comments.

[greenjeans]

If they are steel bars, I would not worry about drilling a hole in the bars.  That would be my choice.    A large hole for the wires, and a smaller one for the locating pin.   Get a small file and make sure that there aren't any burrs etc from drilling the holes.   For the hole that goes under the triple clamp, you'll have to drill 2 holes overlapping just a bit and file/dremel out the remainder to make oval.    Stock bars came with holes and I've never heard of one breaking.     However, if they are aluminum, it could be a factor.   Steel bends, aluminum breaks.

[Clarkie7000]

thanks greenjeans. after posting I went searching around the interweb and decided I'd get some original style bars (with the holes). I am keen to have the bike looking as close to original as I can, so this is a good start (especially as they are not expensive). I can beleive that the previous owner butchered the switch(es?) to fit them on the bars when he probably should have drilled the bars. Got me worried what else I am going to find

[martin99]

Also bear in mind that if you modify the switch you will void any warranty from DSS. Unlikely to be a problem, but not impossible. New bars/drilling existing bars is the way to go.