Posted by WD on January 08, 2003 at 07:24:00:
I can't remember how many times I have touched on these, but for the new forum members, in no particular order, are my preferred tricks.
1) Any HD handlebar and/or non-bridged risers fit the Savage. My wife's VS800 Intruder bars are $5 US K&N deep pulls from a bike swap meet.
2) For rear turn signals purchase Custom Chrome brand one or two wire bullets in red or amber or blue lenses if other than amber are legal in your locale. Once you pull the fender struts, they fit perfectly where the stock units were.
3) Put the voltage regulator on the airbox inlet under the seat. Remove the plastic lid under the right side panel to maintain proper airflow.
4) Any auto parts chain or Walmart in the USA has good engine paints. I used Chevrolet red orange on mine, in 1999 with no discoloration or overheat problems.
5) If your paint goes bad, 2 cans of primer and two cans of lacquer will give a better than stock finish if you are patient and follow the can directions. My preference is tractor enamel, but it is not at all forgiving of spraying errors or dirt in the color coat. Sprayed mine in 99 with Kubota type two orange, no problems so far (factory paint was done within 2 months, 1998 Savage Orange, too bad, I really liked that neon orange).
6) Headlights from any source can be easily adapted. JC Whitney has Panhead light and mounting tab for >$50, not counting shipping. It is a 7" unit, takes regular round headlight, a la FORD-CHEVY-ETC. It is fairly easy to cut off the factory pigtail and splice in a standard headlight connector.
Hope these help. If someone needs a pillion pad or passenger pegs, let me know. Cut you a good deal... like shipping cost.
Any questions on customizing e-mail direct, as I don't check the forum very often (e-mail either, but I do get around to it).
KIITW
-WD