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Moto Guzzi V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police Handlebars and controls

Dyeing Granturismo grips

Updated: 2006 Oct 24

I wanted to have yellow hand grips for my project Eldorado. But, not just any grips would do. I wanted to use grips with classic styling…Granturismo grips. Unfortunately, Granturismo grips never came in yellow. They did come in white, though, so I bought a pair with the hopes of dyeing them.

I picked up a package of RIT “golden yellow” dye and proceeded to boil the grips in the dye. The grips definitely absorbed the dye, but the heat from the boiling deformed the grips. So, I bought another pair of white grips.

Not happy with the “golden yellow” color, I picked up a package of RIT “yellow” dye. After boiling the dye to dissolve it, I let it cool completely. Then I submerged the grips and let them soak for 24 hours. Bingo! They took the color nicely and didn't deform at all. Plus the color matches the lighter yellow of the body work much better.

Grips

Updated: 2012 Feb 03

Original grips

Moto Guzzi fit the same black & white grips (MG# 55603000 left & MG# 55603500 right) to all models except for models equipped with disc front brakes (MG# 14603000 left & MG# 14603500 right).

Handlebar grips fit to drum brake models: 55603000 left &…
Handlebar grips fit to drum brake models: MG# 55603000 left & MG# 55603500 right.

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Handlebar grips fit to drum brake models: MG# 55603000 left & MG# 55603500 right.

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Direct link to image

Handlebar grips fit to disc brake models: 14603000 left &…
Handlebar grips fit to disc brake models: MG# 14603000 left & MG# 14603500 right

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Handlebar grips fit to disc brake models: MG# 14603000 left & MG# 14603500 right

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Direct link to image

Wrapping your own

Thanks to Carl Krall for sending me this information via email. In Carl's own words:

I actually took my own advice (given a long time ago, I think to you) and wrapped my grips with some bicycle handlebar tape. Originally this type was sold by Cinelli and was cork, now there are lots of non-cork alternatives with little fake bits in them to look like they are natural material. I got some that does not have adhesive, which the Cinelli does, so that I could experiment without tearing it up.

I wrapped it stretched tightly. I held the stray end with a thinly stretched round of self-healing electrician's tape, also black.

I have the thin black rubber grips that I think came with the Tomaselli 2C, and they are decent enough, but one round of that tape transforms the vibes, in that they no longer get through. The feel of the bars is still fully controlled, but softer. There is no sense that the tape might slip off, like a sleeve might do. So it's not a very sanitary look (was an experiment this time around so I wasn't concerned with perfection), but it's a wonderful feel, and in black it kinda hides away.

I noticed how buzzy the pegs were by comparison. I could immediately see myself riding further without being fatigued, and so am thinking about what might be done with the pegs.

Carl  …

Photo courtesy of Carl Krall.

Photo courtesy of Carl Krall.

Direct link to image

Handlebar switches for accessories

Updated: 2007 Aug 13

Thanks to Charles Hamer for sending me this information.

Holden sells a variety of handlebar mounted switches.

Handlebar switch - K&S 12-0030

Updated: 2011 Jan 17

K&S makes a modern, good quality, universal handlebar switch. While it does not have a period appearance, it is readily available and attractively priced. While the switch comes complete with wiring instructions, the following data specific to Moto Guzzi V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, and 850 California Police models should be helpful.

K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar  …

K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch.

Photo courtesy of K&S.

K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: front of card packaged with…
K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: front of card packaged with the switch. Image courtesy of Gregory Bender.
K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: front of card packaged with the switch. Image courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with…
K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with the switch. Image courtesy of Gregory Bender.
K&S 12-0030 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with the switch. Image courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Function K&S 12-0030 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Pink Black
Horn (wire to ground) Black None - original Moto Guzzi switch grounds through the handlebar switch to the handlebars
Right turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Brown with white tracer Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Brown Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Blue Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Yellow Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Red with yellow tracer Brown
Headlight low beam Green Green

Handlebar switch - K&S 12-0041

Updated: 2012 Jan 23

K&S makes a modern, good quality, universal handlebar switch. While it does not have a period appearance, it is readily available and attractively priced. While the switch comes complete with wiring instructions, the following data specific to Moto Guzzi V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, and 850 California Police models should be helpful.

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar  …

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar switch.

Photo courtesy of K&S.

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar  …

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar switch.

Photo courtesy of K&S.

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with…
K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with the switch.

Photo courtesy of K&S.

K&S 12-0041 universal handlebar switch: back of card packaged with the switch.

Photo courtesy of K&S.

Direct link to image

Function K&S 12-0041 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Pink Black
Horn (wire to ground) Black

None - original Moto Guzzi switch grounds through the handlebar switch to the handlebars

A separate wire will need to be run to ground.

Right turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Brown with white tracer Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Brown Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) None. This switch does not have off/park/on functionality.

Gray with red tracer

A separate wire will need to be run from the distribution panel to an open circuit on the fuse panel.

Headlight high beam Green Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Red with yellow tracer Brown
Headlight low beam Yellow Green
Hight beam LED ground Blue

None - original Moto Guzzi switch does not have a high beam indicator integrated into the switch.

A separate wire will need to be run to ground.

Passing light Blue with white tracer

None - original Moto Guzzi switch does not have a passing light feature.

A separate wire will need to be run to an open ciruit on the fuse panel.

Handlebar switch - Kawasaki 004 (ASAHI-DENSO)

Updated: 2008 Jun 11

Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle was kind enough to send me the wiring cross reference for this switch that came on an Ambassador he purchased in Spring, 2008.

Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic  …
Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic Cycle.

Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic  …
Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic Cycle.

Kawasaki handlebar switch 004.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore, Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Function Kawasaki 004 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Black Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Grey Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Orange Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Blue Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Red & Black Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Brown Brown
Headlight low beam Red & Yellow Green

Handlebar switch - Suzuki 577-6 (ASAHI-DENSO)

Updated: 2008 Jun 09

Mike Ittner was kind enough to let me borrow his switch so I might create this cross reference. This switch was used on the 1973 - 1977 Suzuki GT 750 (Water Buffalo).

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.Mike  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.Mike  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.Mike  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.Mike  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-6.

Photo courtesy of Mike Ittner.

Direct link to image

Function Suzuki 577-6 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Dark Green Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Light Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Light Blue Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Black Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Red with Green stripe Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Black with White stripe Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Separate Orange wire joined with a bullet connector to a separate Green with White stripe wire Brown
Headlight low beam Gray Green

Handlebar switch - Suzuki 577-8

Updated: 2012 Jan 06

Mike Ittner was kind enough to let me borrow his switch so I might create this cross reference.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.Gregory  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.Gregory  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.Gregory  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.Gregory  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.Gregory  …
Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Suzuki handlebar switch 577-8.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Function Suzuki 577-8 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Dark Green Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Light Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Light Blue Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Black Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Black (heavier gauge than the black wire used for the left turn signal) Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Yellow Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Orange (appears to be the same gauge as the heavier black wire) Brown
Headlight low beam White Green

Handlebar switch - Yamaha XT500 1977

Updated: 2011 Oct 21

Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle was kind enough to send me the wiring code cross-reference to make installation on our V700, Ambassador, and Eldorado models quick and easy.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977  …
Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Yamaha handlebar switch as used on a 1977 XT500.

Photo courtesy of eBay.

Direct link to image

Function 1977 Yamaha XT500 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Pink Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Brown/White Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Dark Brown Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Yellow (w/socket from Molex) Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Yellow w/male bullet Green with black tracer
Headlight low beam Green w/male bullet Green
Live wire from fuse panel (provides power for headlights, running lights) Yellow/white Brown
Switch ground Black No equivalent; can be removed or grounded
Must be connected together Tan & Blue No equivalent
Function unknown. Blue/White w/socket from Molex No equivalent; can be removed
Function unknown. White w/socket from Molex No equivalent; can be removed

Handlebar switch - Yamaha YHA 205

Updated: 2008 Nov 11

I extracted this information from Leon Karlak off of the Yahoo! Loopframe_Guzzi news group.

Any 22 mm or 78 in handlebar switch can be fitted, but period correct switches are more difficult to find. Fortunately, Yamaha still has a nice unit available. Drop by your local Yamaha dealer and pick up part number 396-83972-11-00 (YHA205). This switch was originally fitted to the 1970's RD 125.

Charles Hamer was kind enough to send me the wiring code cross-reference to make installation on our V700, Ambassador, and Eldorado models quick and easy.

Yamaha handlebar switch YHA205 / YHA 205 /  …
Yamaha handlebar switch YHA205 / YHA 205 / YHA-205.
Yamaha handlebar switch YHA205 / YHA 205 / YHA-205.

Direct link to image

Function Yamaha YHA 205 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Pink Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Brown & White Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Dark Brown Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Blue Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Yellow Green with black tracer
Live wire from fuse panel Red & Yellow (can be faded, look close) Brown
Headlight low beam Green Green

Handlebar switch - Yamaha YHA 206

Updated: 2011 Aug 14

Paul Linn was kind enough to send me the wiring code cross-reference to make installation on our V700, Ambassador, and Eldorado models quick and easy.

Yamaha handlebar switch YHA206 / YHA 206 / YHA-206.Paul …
Yamaha handlebar switch YHA206 / YHA 206 / YHA-206.

Photo courtesy of Paul Linn.

Yamaha handlebar switch YHA206 / YHA 206 / YHA-206.

Photo courtesy of Paul Linn.

Direct link to image

Function Yamaha YHA 206 Moto Guzzi
Horn (wire to distribution panel) Pink Black
Right turn signal / turn indicator Dark Green Yellow
Turn signal / turn indicator (live wire from fuse panel; goes through flasher unit / blinker unit) Brown/White Purple
Left turn signal / turn indicator Brown Yellow with black tracer
Running lights / parking lights (tail light, gauge illumination lights, etc.) Blue Gray with red tracer
Headlight high beam Yellow Green with black tracer
Headlight low beam Green Green
Live wire from fuse panel (provides power for headlights, running lights) Red/Yellow Brown
Connects to the Yellow/White wire when the lights are turned on…but has no power. Function unknown. Green/White No equivalent
Connects to the Green/White wire when the lights are turned on…but has no power. Function unknown. Yellow/White No equivalent

Ignition switch boot

Updated: 2007 Oct 30

Thanks to Paul Linn and Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle who posted this information on the Yahoo! Loopframe_Guzzi news group.

The original boot for the ignition switch (as used on police models where the switch was located in place of the left tool box) has the following dimensions:

  • Length = 2.30 in
  • Large end inside diameter = 1.6 in
  • Small end inside diameter = 0.45 in

McMaster-Carr item number 5298K82 is a suitable substitute.

Ignition switch cover

Updated: 2011 Jun 06

Thanks to Craig Sheldrick for sending me this information and photo in a private email. In Craig's own words:

I'm in the process of putting together my July ‘73 Eldo 4-shoe x-cop bike, and While fitting up parts, I was looking in my stash of original ignition switches for a good used one, and I pulled one that was on a 18,000 mile original Eldo 850 California. (basically new, AND, no key of course).

I happened to notice, in particular, the switch cover (the one with the ring that has the black cover with the rubber seal) while unscrewing the large thick threaded mounting ring getting ready to mount it on the cop ignition switch bracket.

That's when I see some blue letters, and numbers on the ring! I thought, hmmmmm…I'll email Greg a picture of this in hopes that someone might find this information useful.

Here is a pic of the letters and numbers. The last bit is a bit difficult to make out, so I wrote down on the piece of paper in the pic what I believe they are.

Cheers, and hope maybe this is helpful to someone. I'm sure thru the years with these bikes, that this bit of info has long since been rubbed off on the vast majority of these rings.

Craig  …

Photo courtesy of Craig Sheldrick.

Photo courtesy of Craig Sheldrick.

Direct link to image

Ignition switch rebuild

Updated: 2006 Apr 25

I could not locate any information on how to rebuild the stock Magneti Marelli ignition switch. So, I tackled the job blindly and discovered it wasn't very hard at all. I did not have to replace any parts, just a thorough cleaning and lubrication was all that was needed. Here is the step-by-step:

  1. Remove the ignition switch from the dash (or bracket on police models). Do take the time to label your wires…one minute now will save you five minutes later looking the data up on a wiring diagram.
  2. Wrap masking tape around the metal body and label near each tab the terminal to which the tab points. This isn't absolutely necessary because the body and rear plastic cover only mate one way, but it does make life a bit easier.
  3. Using a small flat-tipped screwdriver, gently pry each tab up and away from the plastic body.
  4. Carefully remove the black plastic cover…it is spring loaded so watch to make sure that you don't jettison parts all over the place.
  5. Grasp the pointed end of inner key switch mechanism and withdraw the entire mechanism from the metal body. Nothing holds it in place, so it should come right out.
  6. Remove the small washer-like piece with the tab on it. Note that the tab is directed toward the black plastic cover. Also note that the slot in the washer is wider on one side than on the other. It only fits on one way, so it should not be a problem getting it back together.
  7. Remove the contact plate. Note that the contacts face toward the black plastic cover. Also note that the slot in middle of the contact plate is wider on one side than on the other. It only fits on one way, so it should not be a problem getting it back together.
  8. Remove the spring.
  9. Remove the indexing plate. Be careful not to lose the three ball bearings that are beneath the indexing plate. Note that the indexes line up with the ball bearings beneath and that the concave side of the index is what faces the ball bearings. Also note that the rectangle slot in the indexing plate only permits the plate to be installed in one position and still allow for proper indexing of all three ball bearings.
  10. Remove the ball bearings. Note that if they appear stuck, it is only because they are stuck…there is no mechanical means by which they are retained. Just squirt a little lubricant in there and they should fall right out.
  11. You are now left with only the core lock mechanism. In order to get to the tumblers and springs, you'll need to pry out the retaining washer. I accomplished this by placing a 716 in, 14 in drive deep well socket over the shaft. Then, using the side of the socket as a leverage point, I pried on the retaining edge on only a small part of the circumference. Then, I tapped the end of a tiny screwdriver into opening with a hammer, and pried the retaining washer up and out. If I needed to do this again, I would try using just the tiny screwdriver first, then resorting to prying the retaining edge if necessary. Upon reassembly, the retaining washer can be popped back into place. Be sure to crimp the rim back in place over the washer or you risk pushing the retaining washer out of place when you insert the key into the ignition.
  12. Now you can withdraw the core lock mechanism, complete with tumblers and springs, from it's housing. I didn't have any trouble with the springs trying to fling tumblers across the garage, but be careful none the less. Take note that the housing has a wider slot and a narrower slot. It should be obvious that the wide part of the tumblers fits into the wide slot in the housing.
  13. You are now down to the core, four tumblers, and four springs. The tumblers and springs can be removed for cleaning and lubrication, but be very careful to keep track of which tumbler goes into which slot. If you get that wrong, your key won't work. In fact, you can insert your key to be sure all of the tumblers are of the right height. If they are not, you can file on the tumblers to make them so…or get a new key cut. Each tumbler has a little arm at the end. This arm is what comes into contact with the spring. When removing the springs, take extra care. They may be a little fussy, but don't force them.
  14. At this point, you are ready to clean, lubricate, and reassemble. Reassembly is the opposite of disassembly and is very straightforward. Do note, though, that the key mechanism must be properly aligned with both the metal housing and the black plastic cover. To do so, ensure that the portion of the key slot that is nearest the edge of the chrome cover (look at the chrome cover where the key is inserted) must be aligned with the double terminal on the black plastic cover.

Ignition switch replacement

Updated: 2011 Jan 17

Please see the follow-up information at the bottom of this section.

My Ambassador arrived with an after market ignition switch already lovingly installed. Unfortunately, it was in bad shape…it didn't make contact half the time, etc. I took it apart and cleaned it all up, put it back together and it worked great. The only problem was that the key could be removed from the switch in any position. For some reason, I don't cherish the notion of retracing my ride in a useless attempt to locate a tiny key on the road.

I should have saved my time altogether and just purchased the replacement I now have installed (What can I say? I love to tinker!). It's not a Moto Guzzi ignition switch, but it installs easily in the dash with no modifications and works great. I bought it from Dennis Kirk with two keys. On top of all that, I can still use my switch cover to keep out the dew.

Ignition switch with spring loaded starter

Contributed by Rob Prins on the Yahoo! Loopframe_Guzzi news group.

This switch would be an appropriate replacement for the V700 and early Ambassador models that did not use a separate starter button. NAPA part number ECH KS6180.

Follow-up

While the universal replacement switch sold by Dennis Kirk is inexpensive, it lacks a key design feature. Specifically, it's body is not keyed to the notches cast in the original dash. The original dash does not need to be modified to fit the switch (it is very important not to modify the original dash in any way), but the switch will eventually loosen up and want to rotate within the hole. This is annoying and proves, once again, how much forethought Moto Guzzi put into the original design. If you are really on a budget, this switch can get you by. But a much better plan is to source a used original switch and then rebuild it.

Keys for the ignition switch

Updated: Prior to 2007 Dec 11

I extracted this information from Fred Sahms off of the old Topica Loopframe_Guzzi news group (which has now moved to Yahoo!) AND from Key Men AND from Keys4Classics AND from the Moto Guzzi National Owners Club (MGNOC) publication “Tips for Guzzis, Volume II” AND from Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

The ignition switch was made by Magneti Marelli (Italian company). There will be a letter code followed by two numbers stamped on the switch. The letter code, usually “E” or “F” , indicates the key code blank that you'll need.

F series key blanks (code series F1-78):

  • Curtis: FT29
  • Dominion: 63SP
  • Ilco: 63SP
  • Ilco: F91FS
  • Silca: AF5B

    I finally sourced an original ignition switch for my Ambassador but it was missing the key. I ordered several replacements from Keys4Classics out of Australia. My lock is an “F” series and the key blanks that I received are SILCA AF5B. They work perfectly in my lock. FYI, Keys4Classsics did an excellent job of responding to my emails and shipping was inexpensive and prompt. First rate.
  • Taylor: F69F

E series key blanks (code series E1-78):

  • Curtis: FT28
  • Dominion: R63SP
  • Ilco: R63SP
  • Silca: AF5A
  • Taylor: F69E
  • Hillman: M11 (It is for a Master brand padlock)

Mirror mounts

Updated: 2008 Jun 18

EMGO mirror mounts

MG Cycle sells a universal 78 in clamp on mirror mount for common 10 mm screw in mirrors. Part number 480112. It works okay, but the fit and finish ain't the best.

Emgo mirror mount.MG  …
Emgo mirror mount.

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Emgo mirror mount.

Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

Direct link to image

Adapting brake and clutch lever perches

I've never been a fan of the clamp on mirror mounts. Every one I've ever seen has been cheaply constructed, prone to rust, and difficult to keep positioned where I want it.

During the Virginia rally in 2006 or 2007 (I can't remember which) I noticed Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle had adapted a set of inexpensive aluminum hand lever perches that had mirror mounts integrated into them. I was convinced.

  1. First, get two perches. Buy part number ZX023271B from JC Whitney. Get two of them. It doesn't matter if they are for the brake or clutch. Hack saw off the levers. File, sand, and polish the aluminum smooth. A quick and easy and cheap set of stable perches that look good.

    Perches used to craft mirror mounts.JC  …
    Perches used to craft mirror mounts.

    Photo courtesy of JC Whitney.

    Perches used to craft mirror mounts.

    Photo courtesy of JC Whitney.

    Direct link to image

  2. Second, purchase a set of mirrors that bolt right on. I chose these from MG Cycle: Part number 2030650. Screw in round mirror, spring loaded mount allows mirror to rotate. $11.50. Fits 8 mm or 10 mm mirror mount holes. Nice wide mirror works particularly well with big handlebars.

    These mirrors are inexpensive and work well. Perfect? Well, no they aren't perfect. But they've held up very well for me and have seen a lot of use. Hard to beat at USD $11.50 each.
    MG  …

    Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

    Photo courtesy of MG Cycle.

    Direct link to image

Starter button bracket

Updated: 2005 Oct 06

For some reason, starter button brackets seem to get lost along the way. I made careful measurements and recorded the data on this drawing so that you can recreate the bracket yourself.

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Throttle (Magura)

Updated: 2011 May 20

Thanks to Brian Wood and Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle for sending me this information.

This throttle was used some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974. Brian Wood informed me that this throttle was used on his 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. The throttle has commonly been referred to as the “no name” throttle because there are no identifying marks on it. The throttle was made by Magura and was also used on the 1967 to 1969 Puch 250.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT,…

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT,…

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT,…

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT,…

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT,…

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Magura throttle as used on some Moto Guzzi 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, 850 California Police models, particularly those manufactured in 1974.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Throttle cable catch for the Magura throttle

Updated: 2011 Apr 14

Thanks to Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle for sending me this information.

Throttle cover hold-down screw (Tommaselli Super Pratic B)

Updated: Prior to 2007 Dec 11

The little screw that secures the cover on the Tommaselli Super Pratic B throttle is 3 mm wide × 0.6 mm thread pitch × 3 mm long. The usual thread pitch for 3 mm wide screws is 0.5 mm, making this screw extremely difficult to source. Check with long time dealers to see if they have any in stock.

Throttle disassembly (Tommaselli Super Pratic B)

Updated: 2011 Aug 18

Fully assembled.Gregory  …
Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Fully assembled.Gregory  …
Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Fully assembled.Gregory  …
Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Fully assembled.Gregory  …
Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Fully assembled.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Remove the plastic anti-friction ring.Gregory  …
Remove the plastic anti-friction ring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Remove the plastic anti-friction ring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Tube is secured to the body with a retaining ring.Gregory…
Tube is secured to the body with a retaining ring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Tube is secured to the body with a retaining ring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Pop it out with a screwdriver.Gregory  …
Pop it out with a screwdriver.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Pop it out with a screwdriver.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

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Rotate the tube to retract the chain from the channel…
Rotate the tube to retract the chain from the channel and withdraw the tube from the body. I've already removed the chain cover as well as the friction screw and spring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Rotate the tube to retract the chain from the channel and withdraw the tube from the body. I've already removed the chain cover as well as the friction screw and spring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Slide the metal thrust washer off of the tube.Gregory …
Slide the metal thrust washer off of the tube.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Slide the metal thrust washer off of the tube.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Throttle tube with pull chain.Gregory  …
Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Throttle tube with pull chain.Gregory  …
Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

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Throttle tube with pull chain.Gregory  …
Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Throttle tube with pull chain.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Rubber friction material fit to the throttle body.Gregory  …
Rubber friction material fit to the throttle body.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Rubber friction material fit to the throttle body.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Rubber friction material (left), thin metal backing plate for the…
Rubber friction material (left), thin metal backing plate for the friction material (so the screw does not push through the rubber friction material), friction screw and spring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Rubber friction material (left), thin metal backing plate for the friction material (so the screw does not push through the rubber friction material), friction screw and spring.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Close up of the friction block. Soft rubber material is…
Close up of the friction block. Soft rubber material is 11 mm × 21 mm × 4 mm.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Close up of the friction block. Soft rubber material is 11 mm × 21 mm × 4 mm.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

Direct link to image

Empty throttle body. You can see the protrusions that keep…
Empty throttle body. You can see the protrusions that keep the rubber friction material and metal backing plate from rotating when the throttle tube is rotated.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Empty throttle body. You can see the protrusions that keep the rubber friction material and metal backing plate from rotating when the throttle tube is rotated.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

All of the parts of the throttle.Gregory  …
All of the parts of the throttle.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

All of the parts of the throttle.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Throttle retaining ring (Tommaselli Super Pratic B)

Updated: 2006 Oct 18

I extracted this information from Tom Christian off of the Yahoo! Loopframe_Guzzi news group. In Tom's own words:

I was sliding my Eldo around on the lift from the right side while holding the throttle and the throttle assembly pulled right out of its housing. On inspection, I found the “retaining ring” had either come out of its groove in the housing or broken - couldn't tell. It was a spring steel ring, not a typical retaining ring shape, and felt weak. I measured and ordered a replacement from McMaster - worked perfectly. Thought someone might be interested in the part number for future reference. (McMaster-Carr part number 91580A235)

Retaining ring / snap ring; McMaster-Carr part number 91580A235. Image…

Retaining ring / snap ring; McMaster-Carr part number 91580A235. Image courtesy of McMaster-Carr.

Throttle set screw (Tommaselli Super Pratic B and Tommaselli Daytona 2C)

Updated: 2010 Mar 16

The original Tommaselli Super Pratic B and Tommaselli Daytona 2C throttles used a 5 mm × 0.8 mm × 7.5 mm set screw with a slotted head and a cone tip.

The latest Tommaselli Daytona 2C throttles use a 5 mm × 0.8 mm × 8 mm set screw with a 2.5 mm recessed hex head (Allen) and a cup tip.

5 mm × 0.8 mm × 8 mm with 2.5 mm recessed hex head (Allen) are readily available in both cone and cup tips from McMaster-Carr. Search for 91217A165 (stainless steel cone tip), 92015A119 (stainless steel cup tip), 91210A215 (black-finish steel cone tip), or 91390A119 (black-finish steel cup tip).

Twist-Assist

Updated: 2011 Sep 06

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

Twist assist and individual components.Gregory  …
Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Twist assist and individual components.

Photo courtesy of Gregory Bender.

Direct link to image

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