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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 03:53:26 PM

Title: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 03:53:26 PM
does anyone know if the new style '02+ tail fairings fit the older models?...or if it would be difficult to convert? mine are cracked and i was thinking about finding some fairings to replace them, but i like the new style tail a little better.
Title: Re: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: fred on March 05, 2009, 03:59:48 PM
Quote from: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 03:53:26 PM
does anyone know if the new style '02+ tail fairings fit the older models?...or if it would be difficult to convert? mine are cracked and i was thinking about finding some fairings to replace them, but i like the new style tail a little better.

It can be done, but is non-trivial. If you're handy with a welder or have a good friend who is, you could do it, otherwise, I'd stick with the original style plastics...
Title: Re: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 04:03:15 PM
yeah, it's not worth that much effort to me. do they not fit just because the clips aren't aligned? or is the seat also an issue
Title: Re: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: fred on March 05, 2009, 04:08:45 PM
Quote from: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 04:03:15 PM
yeah, it's not worth that much effort to me. do they not fit just because the clips aren't aligned? or is the seat also an issue

Both I believe. The gas tank changed too, so I'm not sure if the shape of the plastics is different to match the different gas tank...
Title: Re: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: Danny500 on March 05, 2009, 06:53:57 PM
Quote from: fred on March 05, 2009, 04:08:45 PM
Quote from: dleemiller on March 05, 2009, 04:03:15 PM
yeah, it's not worth that much effort to me. do they not fit just because the clips aren't aligned? or is the seat also an issue

Both I believe. The gas tank changed too, so I'm not sure if the shape of the plastics is different to match the different gas tank...

Exactly. You CAN use the stock tank, but the 02' seat wont fit around it properly, also, you'd have to cut off the rubber mounting tabs on either side. That, and you also have to reposition the rectifier and blinker relay to fit under the new fairings... plus a taillgiht, plus a fender... not worth it.

If you want to update the back end... throw an R1 tail light in it and drive it... maybe a seat cowel. That's about it.  :cheers:
Title: Re: swapping new and old style tail fairings
Post by: jeremy_nash on March 05, 2009, 10:45:34 PM
I just did the newer style seat and fairing conversion, and it's a pain in the butt!!! nothing lined up, had to make spacers for the pillion seat cushions, made new mounting points for everything.  if you have access to the tools, and a welder, and plenty of time to get everything to lineup properly, I say go for it.  dont know how it fits around the older tank though, as I had already upgraded to a rust-free tank off an 04