Topic: CB500K0 seat and seat lock on CB550K0?

[RAFster122s]

When I bought my bike it came with a few things that were a bit of a puzzle. Makes me wonder about it...
Turns out it has a '71 CB500 seat with the hook shaped latch. But, it didn't have the seat lock/latch that bolts to the bike frame.
Well, I bought one on ebay but it is missing a piece that will open the latch after you have unlocked it.
Didn't realize when I was buying because the pics were pretty dark and not clear.  Seller claims to not have known. So, I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. 
The '71 latch was a one year only deal as far as I can tell and what a '71 CB500 owner tells me.
The part number on the fische drawings is part# 12 on the '71 CB500 fische drawings showing the seat lock. 

I'm not sure yet if the latch will work even if I bolt it up...haven't tried yet. Will have to go try tonight; bike's at a friend's place about 10 miles away.

So, I'm looking for opinions or a seat latch for cheap that is complete for the '71 CB500.

Should I ditch the seat for a CB550 seat and seat lock assembly?

Thanks!

David

[bryanj]

The later key type seat and latch will fit as long as you change everything including the bracket that bolts to the frame and the seat with plunger, any 500/550 72-76. If you are just missing the one part try Dave Silver or CMS NL the original used many 750 parts and some are still out there