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Old Mar 21, 2008 | 11:55 PM
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Default old school chopper question

I plan to start building a Paghco Hardtail chopper by the end of summer. Does anyone make hand controls with no switches that aren`t billet? I have found several set ups but they are all billet and I don`t want billet.I want it to look like a old school chopper. Any help would be great.
 
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Old Mar 22, 2008 | 09:44 AM
  #2  
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Default RE: old school chopper question

If you want the old school chopper look, use the original controls. Back in the day we didn't have all this aftermarket stuff available and if it was we couldn't afford it. If your building a period style "chopper" then you have to use what was available back then. No billet, no disks (who needs disks on a 500 lb chopper, once the tire locks up the disks aren't really going to make a difference), distributor with pionts, etc. Some cool **** is wick type throttle, mousetrap. NO EVOS PLEASE!!!.
 
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Old Mar 22, 2008 | 02:32 PM
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Default RE: old school chopper question

well I`m not going for a total period correct look but I just don`t want any billet stuff on it and I want it to look "old". I don`t plan to run any switches other than ignition and high/low beam. I`m sorry to disapoint you but I will be using a evo.I would love to do a shovel head but the parts are to hard to come by in my area without either getting crap or spending too much money. I can put together a evo really cheap since I`ve already got most of the engine, just need cases.
 
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Old Mar 22, 2008 | 05:18 PM
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Default RE: old school chopper question

SWAPMEET.....................and don't say "old school".I'm just kidding ,but I really am starting to hate that term.It gets thrown around so much these days it's not even funny.If it's not old it's not ........well you know.
 
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Old Mar 22, 2008 | 08:28 PM
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Default RE: old school chopper question

ORIGINAL: FandA M

SWAPMEET.....................and don't say "old school".I'm just kidding ,but I really am starting to hate that term.It gets thrown around so much these days it's not even funny.If it's not old it's not ........well you know.
I know what you mean. I hate it myself but I didn`t know what else to call a hardtail springer chopper with a peanut tank,lol. Swap meet is a good idea, not too many around here but still a good idea. Thanks.
 
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Old Mar 22, 2008 | 10:50 PM
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Default RE: old school chopper question

ORIGINAL: chopperhead2

ORIGINAL: FandA M

SWAPMEET.....................and don't say "old school".I'm just kidding ,but I really am starting to hate that term.It gets thrown around so much these days it's not even funny.If it's not old it's not ........well you know.
I know what you mean. I hate it myself but I didn`t know what else to call a hardtail springer chopper with a peanut tank,lol. Swap meet is a good idea, not too many around here but still a good idea. Thanks.
Hey,you might wanna check out eBay too.
 
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Old Mar 23, 2008 | 12:13 AM
  #7  
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Default RE: old school chopper question

I don't know if switchless housings are made for whatever style hand controls you go with but you could use the original covers for the housings and put a plate on the inside that fits up tight to the switch openings and is held in place by the screw(s) that would hold the switches in place. Then fill the switch holes with bondo, epoxy or JB Weld. Once you sand it to whatever shape you want and paint 'em, they would probably look like an original piece.
As far as pre-made covers, you're gonna have to start checking/requesting catalogs online or at your favorite bike shop. Check at J&P Cycles to see what's out there. They are pricey (J&P) but they carry just about everything you can think of so it's a good resource to see what is out there and if you do buy from them, they have excellent customer service.
 
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Old Mar 23, 2008 | 01:23 AM
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Default RE: old school chopper question

The '70s style HD master cylinder and clutch lever can be had pretty cheaply, and there is a blank piece that will replace the piece where the switches mounted. The cover is available from J&P, part # 5000165. Costs a whoppin' $14. Complete kit with master cylinder & clutch lever, minus the blank covers, is J&P part # 500-420, @ $122. You'll need 2 covers to complete the kit.
 
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Old Mar 23, 2008 | 02:12 AM
  #9  
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Default RE: old school chopper question

Thanks for the info guys. I`ll have to check them out and see what I can come up with.
 
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Old Sep 7, 2008 | 05:47 AM
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I have an old school chopper. 53 Panhead. Old rigid frame. Solo seat with springs heavy enough to make my *** say thanks. Lets not forget the clutch booster(mousetrap) You gotta have one of those to give it that stylish look. 6 volt system. One headlight and 1 tail/brake light. Electric start........ I dont think so. If I dont see you kickstarting that chopper I dont see old school. All that being said..... I have a 53 pan for sale. And yes..... It has that custom raked front end.
 
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