Late model CL77 Headllight Modification

Snakeoil · Post by **Snakeoil** » Wed Apr 17, 2013 9:59 am

Replacement headlight for late model CL77's if you can find one is $75.00. They are the same light that was used in the Black Bomber. I know where there are 5 NOS lights and if I buy all 5 can get them for $55.00 each. If my bike was a trailer queen that sits in the rumpus room for folks to oogle, or just taken to shows to bring home trophies, then I'd have a $75.00 headlight in the shell. But I ride the bike and flog it pretty hard at least twice a year in the Motogiro, which is a combination of dirt and paved surfaces covering 300 odd miles over two days. My chain guard tab lasted 2 giros before it had to be repaired. I'd just as soon not destroy a vintage headlight at $75 a pop. Plus, eventually there will be no more of them (they are no where near as available as the earlier design and Retro-bikes has those for $12.00 with cloudy lens, but try and find the mating rim).

I also got a PM from another member asking me to come up with a mod to use an H4 LED light in these headlights and post the how-to here. But after working on this mod, I'm not sure there is room for an H4 due to how far they stick out of the reflector. But I still may give it a try with my old OEM reflector.

Lastly, I thought these forums were about helping others with the same bike. If someone has a dead headlight and is short on funds or cannot source one where they live, this mod gives them the ability to pass an inspection, have a good light for night riding and a readily available source for replacements. You guys are whining about someone making a contribution to the website and the other late model CL77 owners. I really don't see how complaining about a thread that is of no value to you, but might be to others is making a contribution to the group.

I've noticed that there is not the level of activity on this site that there used to be. Maybe everyone's bike is running well. Or maybe criticizing members for offering up another way of doing things is partially responsible for that. If you don't like the topic, nobody is twisting your arm to read it.

Sorry if I appear a bit harsh. My goal when coming to this site is to be helpful when I can. When I can't I keep my mouth shut. I think these forums are a great source of info and experience for folks. When I see someone attempting to passively sensor the content because they don't find it interesting, I believe it takes away from the forum. It's my humble opinion that members should do more than just ask questions for their personal issues and never give back. I see that way too many times.

regards,
Rob

G-Man · Post by **G-Man** » Wed Apr 17, 2013 11:02 am

Nicely put!

I enjoy seeing what colleagues on this forum come up with whether I need it or not. As time goes on, the ingenious members will still be riding their bikes while others will be desperately spending their last pennies on overpriced items on eBay.

G

Post by **Michael Stoic** » Wed Apr 17, 2013 10:09 pm

Rob,

I am very surprised to hear anything but praise at your work. This kind of ingenuity is very inspiring and I am sure will be greatly appreciated by many.

Your mod is well designed and well done. I am a fan of this kind of approach. Thank you for writing it up and sharing with the VJ world!

--
Michael Stoic
honda305.com

Ford Guy · Post by **Ford Guy** » Thu Apr 18, 2013 5:26 am

I cannot believe some on would post a negative comment about modifying a headlight to fit. It does not matter how cheap you can buy one for or whether they are readily available or not. What matters is Snakeoil is thinking outside the box. Use the ingenuity learn from it and one never knows where you can benefit from it.
Keep up the good work.

Jon

1966 CL77
2010 Harley 48
2013 Road King

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Thu Apr 18, 2013 6:58 am

Another vote for finding alternative parts, and ingenuity! There are times when only an origional will do, and others here a clever replacement is the cats meow!

Davo

brewsky · Post by **brewsky** » Thu Apr 18, 2013 7:08 am

For those of us with a little MacGyver envy inside.....keep it up Rob!

I've got a lawn mower pull cable T-handle as part of the seat lock mechanism on one of my bikes just because I can!

Snakeoil · Post by **Snakeoil** » Thu Apr 18, 2013 7:21 am

I truly appreciate the kind words, gents. Doing stuff like this is more of a passion than anything else. I flat out enjoy it, even when I'm swearing at it half way thru the process.

I'll keep sharing. I can't help myself. It's like that zinc plating thing... Hi, I'm Rob and I have a problem.

regards,
Rob