DIY Network

'48 Indian Motorcycle: Speedometer and Fuel Tanks From "Classic Rides" episode DCLR-308

New speedometer, installed

Our 1948 Indian Chief motorcycle is close to completion. In this phase of the restoration, antique motorcycle specialist Chris Matthews shows host Craig Reynolds how to install a new speedometer, bolt on the fuel tanks, and attach fuel and oil lines. Chris then discovers he's got a little last minute welding to do when he spots a small crack on the safety bars. New saddlebags are installed, and Craig and Chris put the final nuts and bolts on before final wiring begins.

Work gets underway with the speedometer and fuel-tank installations.

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	Chris installs the light plate.
	The newly installed speedometer and light plate

Materials and tools:

complete set of wrenches, SAE or metric
replacement speedometer

Following is a summary of the basic steps for this installation, as seen in Classic Rides, episode 308.

Note: This is a summary of steps included in the automotive restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Rides. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of motorcycle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgrade kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.

	Installing the speedometer

Speedometer Installation

When we first checked out our Indian, the speedometer was completely missing. At the time that wasn't a big deal since the bike hardly ran. However, as we get closer to a fully functional motorcycle, we'll certainly need one. The restored Indian will not be lacking when it comes to power and acceleration, and a functioning speedometer is a must.

• The speedometer mounts to the frame of the bike, right between the two halves of the fuel tanks. Installation is pretty straightforward.

• Before setting the speedometer in place, first set down the rubber insulation pad and then attach the speedometer cable. This runs up from the front wheel.

• Screw the cable to the back of the speedometer and finger tighten. There is no need to torque it tight, just make sure it's snug.

• Set the speedometer in place and secure it with the two lock washers and nuts.

• Tighten the nuts down securely.

• Pass the mounting bolts through the brackets on the right side tank. Then put a rubber grommet on each bolt.

• Set the tank in place and pass the bolts through the frame of the bike. Put another grommet on the bolt.

• Set the left side tank in place and then install the washers and lock nuts.

• Tighten the nuts down securely.

RESOURCES :

Welders
Lincoln Electric
Website: www.lincolnelectric.com

Kiwi Indian
Website: www.kiwi-indian.com

V-Twin Mfg.
Rims, Spokes, Hubs, Tire Irons and Truing Stand
Website: www.vtwinmfg.com

Motorcycle Lift
Handy Lift
Website: www.handy-lift.com

Various Tools
Eastwood
Website: www.eastwoodco.com

Hepavac Asbestos Vacuum
Bullseye
Website: www.bullseyecorp.com

Parts Washer
Safety Kleen
Website: www.safety-kleen.com

Chrome Polish
G & H Metal Finishers
282 Dakota St.
Paterson, NJ 07503

Belt Grinder
Ellis Manufacturing
Website: www.ellissaw.com

Powder Coating Shop
Best Signs
Phone: 865-922-5247
E-mail: bestsigns@tds.net

Coker Classic White Wall Tires, Tubes and Spoke Covers
Coker Tires
Website: www.coker.com

Gaskets/Headers
James Gaskets
Website: www.jamesgaskets.com