I'm redoing a 1971 FL and was wondering if turn signals were mandatory or an option on that model year? Also wondering if the dash could have been the same color as the tank. The parts manual lists it as chrome or primed

 

I never knew turn signals to be optional. Chrome dash was probably standard.

 

turn signals after 1968 were mandatory on anything driven with a motor

police / military bikes did not do chrome parts for the most part dash is one of them so if its a real police your choice

 

Signal depends on what the local codes call for out here 72 and earlier don't need them, mine's a 72 so been asked that question by the gestapo more times than I care to remember.

 

Not required here, but I heard if you have them and flip a hand signal instead of using the blinkers you will get ticketed. That may be just BS.

 

For over 33 years I have never had turn signals on my 77 Shovel.

 

that idea only holds up until its one beer to many at 2 am at a T intersection and a cop pulls up behind you

 

Took them off my '78 FXE soon after I got it in '79 and never have any tickets from that. Can't say for other states and cops but I know if they are there they have to work or you will get a ticket. Some cops can be jerks about them not being on late models. But that is why they became cops, to harass people with legal backing.

 

I think the OP was wondering about a correct restoration, not the legality of turn signals. I also think that johnjzjz answered the question for him.

 

You have a good point. But after living almost 28 years in So. Cal. and a few other states from Texas to Montana before that, I have been pulled over several times for one reason or another, once for loud pipes (equipment violation), not once has my not having turn signals ever been an issue or even questioned by the cops. Besides, just being out at 2am is reason enough to to get stopped around here.