BSA Owners' Club Workshop Discussions

The BSA Workshop => Singles => Topic started by: BOBLAN on 04 Mar, 2024, 14:51

Title: B31 ammeter
Post by: BOBLAN on 04 Mar, 2024, 14:51
Hi all

I don't think that my 1946 B31 headlight is the original type, as it just has a chrome headlamp shell, whilst I believe the original set up would have had a painted cowl? Anyway, I don't think my ammeter is working correctly and would like to replace it. As with the rest of the later set up, I doubt that the ammeter is the original type either. It has a body of 1.5" diameter, with a cream face and measuring +-8 amps.

Can anyone suggest whether I can buy another ammeter with a 1.5" diameter and with a suitable amperage range? And if so, where from?
Thanks
Bob
Title: Re: B31 ammeter
Post by: Derek996 on 04 Mar, 2024, 16:03
I doubt if the chrome shell is the original fitment, most if not all headlamps from this period were painted black and mounted on the fork shrouds with no cowl. Cowls weren't fitted until 1953.
Cream faced -8  +8 ammeters are readily available but only with 1¾" or 2" dials. It may be that the 1¾" fits a 1½" aperture. Most currently available ammeters seem to be made in India and the quality can be dubious.
Title: Re: B31 ammeter
Post by: BOBLAN on 05 Mar, 2024, 12:24
Thanks Derek

Thanks for the confirmation on the headlamp shell and the ammeter. I will continue with the shell, but will have to try one of these dubious meters, as that must be better than one that doesn't work. I assume I will be able to replace one if it doesn't work.....