Dash Replacement

[ggfossen]

Anybody know if there are replacements available for the plastic dash boards on 1983 R80RTs??

Gary

[kioolt]

I bought a replacement dashboard years ago. I don't see why they wouldn't be available from the dealer even today. The part no. you want is 46-63-1-237-773. If it's still available you should be able to get it for under $25.

[ggfossen]

K,

Appreciate the response. I have to go get a batt on Tuesday. I'll check with the dealer. I was just assuming...I don't know what I was assuming.

Thanks,

Gary

[lkchris]

K,

Appreciate the response. I have to go get a batt on Tuesday. I'll check with the dealer. I was just assuming...I don't know what I was assuming.

Thanks,

Gary

You should assume that 99.9% of the parts you need for your bike are still available from BMW. These ain't J*p bikes.

You can look them up here
http://www.maxbmwmotorcycles.com/fiche/fiche.asp

Then, get better prices here
https://chicagobmwmotorcycle.com/2frames/2frame.html

BTW, you're going to need the BMW hollow copper rivets to install your dashboard. There's a special tool for "squashing" them into place, but you might be able to do it with a nut/bolt. Check with your local BMW club to see if someone has the tool.

[ggfossen]

Kent,

I was wondering about the rivets. I'll take a look at the sites.

Thanks,

Gary

[kioolt]

I've got the tool for putting the rivets in. I would be willing to lend it to anyone needing it.

[Bob_M]

The plastic dash boards are pretty flimsy. If you want to mount an accessory jack or switch in the dash a pretty clean reinforcment is to shape doublers from some brass sheeting to fit the untextured rectangular reveals and through-screw them onto the plastic. A slightly oversized backing plate is also a good idea. Shape, bend, drill and paint the brass sheeting then place it in the reveal and melt the holes with a hot nail. then drill them out. If you sandwich fiberglass matting and resin on the backside of the dash, between the backing plate and the plastic dash the dash gets lots stronger. Drill and shape the switch or acc. jack hole after the resin has set up. Mask and touch up the paint and it will look as good as it works. It worked for me. :)
Bob

[lkchris]

The plastic dash boards are pretty flimsy. If you want to mount an accessory jack or switch in the dash ...

This would be *after* installing the two BMW switches that there are already provisions for ... . The installation of those is not flimsy.

[Bob_M]

There are existing provisions for mounting Jacks and switches. With upgraded charging systems and modern gadgetry one might want for more controls at the dashboard, however no one ever went wrong keeping things stock.
B

[ggfossen]

I appreciate all the input. Actually, I don't plan to mount anything extra on the dash. I'm considering replacing because it had too much Arizona sun, and has a big split in the middle.

Also, I appreciate the offer of the rivet installer. I expect, tho, that I could make up a tool for that?

Gary