I have to start by saying that I'm no mechanic, I'm impatient, and forgetful. That said, I gust finished stripping my bike, all of it. I have a friend who is that cats meow of chopper painters here who said he'd paint my bike whatever I wanted for the cost of the paint so long as I prep the bike. So, inconsistent with my nature I'm being very patient and methodical about this process. But still, seeing all the parts in a pile, even though its organized, worries me about getting it back together, so I may be asking you all for help in a month. But this process has spurred a few questions......

I want to smooth the line of the frame and I've been reading that paint shops will grind down the visible wealds, does this cause strength problems?

I've looked at a number of custom GS500's on this site and it seems that not too many people paint their swig arm, why is that?

I've been thinking bout the corbin seat and wondering if anyone has one and what you think?

There are others out there that can speak better on the integrity of the welds, but I can say that I have the Corbin Gunfighter and I think it is better looking and much more comfortable.

I wouldn't grind down the welds.  A little sanding to take the curse off, well OK, but not grind them down.

remember that welding is mostly done by butting two pieces of metal together and then melting metal over the joint, hence the big ugly pile. It's hard to weld "between" pieces because the iron won't end up in the right place. I would follw john's advice and maybe lightly smooth them, but don't take any real depth off or the weld could break, especially in a different stress situation, like a hard turn, or maybe a drop.

Hi there Emmajoe,
I also have a Corbin Gunfighter (with Lady) saddle and while it is definitely much better than the stock seat, it is not perfect.
It takes a long time, as in a season or two, to break it in well, and it can feel very firm after a long ride of several hours.
It is better for sure by providing a wider perch on which to sit, which helps distribute the rider's weight better, increasing comfort over the stock seat.
I also am more conscious about keeping it dry in wet weather to protect it.
It certainly looks nicer.
It is a LOT heavier than the stock seat, for sure.
Best wishes,
Todd

If you're looking to smooth the stuff up use bondo over the welds.  You cna make them nice little smooth "humps" instead of piled steel.

Don't let the pile of parts psyche you out. It's not difficult to reassemble...it only goes back one way.

Quote from: makenzie71 on February 15, 2006, 07:53:06 PMDon't let the pile of parts psyche you out. It's not difficult to reassemble...it only goes back one way.

If I took my bike completely apart, I'd be worried about all the "extra" pieces.

Everytime I tear a bike down and put it back together I've always got extra pieces somehow.  Never effects performance and i think it really is a magical occurence.  I have enough left over parts from rebuilding my EX that I could make another one.  One time I actually had a wheel left over.  That's f%&ked up.

DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES "GRIND DOWN" THE WELDS.  You will significantly reduce it's strength.

DONT MESS WITH THE WELDS, use alittle body puddy or something like that which is sandable and paint over that.

just remember to take your time, cars,trucks,bikes, Lawnmowers, VCR's and computers are all made up of smaller parts.  when all else fails, look at the book.