GS6 vs MC

[Steve Minor]

I'm starting a 1977 400 GS6 (orange tank, 10th anniv. decals) restoration and wanted to know if there are any physical/mechanical differences between the GS6 model and the MC model. I know about the lighting coil, headlight, taillight, brake light switch on the GS6, but just wondered what other differences there are? Are most parts (pipe, panels, seat, etc.) interchangeable?

Thanks, Steve

[Chris Brown]

Everything is the same except for the lights and fenders. I have the MC5.
All motoplat ignition systems have a lighting coil, out put is AC. You need to know this if you want to test output.
Also the rear fender mount is added to the enduro model.
Unless I'm mistaken, the motor is the same.
Chris Brown

 

[Steve Minor]

Hey, thanks Chris I thought the were just about the same.....Do you have problems finding parts?

 

[Chris Brown]

No trouble with parts. Between Al Beuhner and Larry Perkins most anything is avialable.
These old bikes are virtually bullet proof. I've put over 500miles of trail riding on mine since its restoration without a single failure. Larry has a chain block for me, that's what I need right now.
I've changed the gear oil a couple of times, and just did the forks again. They were dirty.
It's a good rider, does slow stuff and fast stuff well. I actually like the KTM better than a late model CR I bought, so I'm selling it.
I'm also getting ready to put one of Larry's falk fenders on with a taillight, and install the PP headlight/number plate I was able to find. Fun to putt around in the evenings on those winter desert trips out here.
If you need help with parts locating, just give us a buzz here. Good luck to you.
Chris Brown

 

[Larry Perkins]

I don't believe that all Motoplats had the lighting coil.  There are some with less wires than others.  Dane or someone along that line could say so for sure, but I think I am right.

 

[skipperclyde]

I own a three wire Motoplat.  Two wires go to the coil. One goes to the kill switch.  I am told that a three wire setup is better for motocross.  The reason being that there is no energy wasted in creating a magnetic field for the lighting coils.



Edited by - skipperclyde on 10/10/2001  12:37:11 PM

[grandpaul]

Skip - If there is no load on the circuit, there is no energy being expended; simple physics.


GrandPaul,
Host of the Vintage Bikes forum at //www.delphi.com/oldbikes and the Triumph Bonnevilles Forum at //www.delphi.com/grandpaul

[skipperclyde]

Yes you are correct except on startup.  When starting the engine there will be a slight drag when the coils are activated.  As soon as the energy has no place to go, ie no load, there will be no resistance.

Shipper Clyde

Never won anything.  Don't host nothing.  But I'll feed you supper and give you a warm bed if you come to visit.

Edited by - skipperclyde on 10/10/2001  5:53:49 PM

[grandpaul]

Skip - I like your new signature line! Problem is, I was in the Navy and a "warm bed" means you get the bed somebody just crawled out of! I will, however, take you up on the food! What city/State are you in?


GrandPaul,
Host of the Vintage Bikes forum at //www.delphi.com/oldbikes and the Triumph Bonnevilles Forum at //www.delphi.com/grandpaul

[skipperclyde]

Pomona, MO.  Come on Down.

 

[grandpaul]

And all this time I thought Pomona was in California!

Perhaps the next time we take a trip up to the Kansas/Misourri area we will advise and try to touch base. thanx!


GrandPaul,
Host of the Vintage Bikes forum at //www.delphi.com/oldbikes and the Triumph Bonnevilles Forum at //www.delphi.com/grandpaul