Really messed up, need help!

[jakeolsen]

So I chem dipped my frame and stands to remove the paint before powder coating. I didn't think of the fact that the top part of the triple tree could be aluminum. That piece now no longer exists! I have two parts bikes that are also 1980 GS550's, but I am pretty sure they are both L's. Are the tops of the triple trees the same? I don't have the other to compare, but looking at them it seems like the bars are raised a bit higher. I guess I can always sell them to buy one good one if I have to, but I just thought maybe I would ask first. By the way, mine is a '80 550e.

[Dave8338]

I "think" that the trips are the same spacing and offset, though I can't be sure. The lower tubes are different, I know.

Anyone else?

[Einstein]

Part # = 51311-47000-291
Part Description = HEAD,STEERING STEM
Model Count = 8
GS550B 1977 549 GS550 STREET
GS550C 1978 549 GS550 STREET
GS550EC 1978 549 GS550E STREET
GS550ET 1980 549 GS550E STREET
GS550N 1979 549 GS550 STREET
GS750C 1978 748 GS750 STREET
GS750EC 1978 748 GS750E STREET
GS750N 1979 748 GS750 STREET

Part # = 51311-47200-291
Part Description = HEAD,STEERING STEM
Model Count = 6
GS550LN 1979 549 GS550L STREET
GS550LT 1980 549 GS550L STREET
GS750ET 1980 748 GS750E STREET
GS750EX 1981 748 GS750E STREET
GS750LT 1980 748 GS750L STREET
GS750LX 1981 748 GS750L STREET


Hope this helps..

John

[ikantbreave]

That's just off the top of his head, too.

[bonanzadave]

That piece now no longer exists!

Good reason to change the steering head bearings. Ya would have had to at least taken the tree apart to clean and re grease the old bearings anyway.

[sschering]

You can't mix the L and E trees & top clamps..

L's have 1" less offset in the trees to make up for the leading axle.
I wouldn't try running E forks in L trees either unless you like slow steering.
It'll add a inch or so to the trail.

[jakeolsen]

Thanks for the help. I'll order a new set off of ebay tonight.