Evolution of the shape of the Lucas 169SA switches?

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Jdub

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I am hunting down a set of electrical switches for a ’74 Mk2 and note several variations on the switch paddle lever. When did Norton go from a short, sharp-ended paddle lever to a longer rounded one? And did the red kill switch only appear later in this evolution or was it red all along?

Thanks for any help you can provide.
 
I have a red kill switch dating from 8/1974.


Evolution of the shape of the Lucas 169SA switches?
 
I was just looking into this.
Near as I can tell they went to the longer paddle in 73.
My 73 Mk1 850 had the same Red button / paddle as rvich above.

I will take a guess and suggest the 73 Mark V 750 had the same.

However, nothing is for certain when it comes to Norton's......
 
My ‘73 750 dated 12 1972 had the longer blades and the red kill button. 220637
 
Thanks to all. Since the price is great I will end up with a pair of the shorter pointed paddles w/out a red kill switch just as Alan has referenced on his '74.

On rebuild & cleanup I will use a 169sa/c rebuild kit that includes the later (or concurrent - these switches were used everywhere!) long rounded paddles.
 
I have a red kill switch dating from 8/1974.

I have the same but Dec 1973 on my Mk2a.

I had been sorting through boxes and it seems I have quite a few NOS switches along with good used.
The red button and two paddle types are available new so a change is easy.

Evolution of the shape of the Lucas 169SA switches?
 
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Does that mean the black buttons and short flipper are 1971 and earlier... The ones in the picture were bought for my 1971 fastback.
 
NOS porn! You're reported buddy.

I see your list, there was a 850 rolling chassis (CA) listed on FB today which might have some of the parts you need.... Still has its original tyres/tires with British air inside.

Evolution of the shape of the Lucas 169SA switches?
 
Does that mean the black buttons and short flipper are 1971 and earlier... The ones in the picture were bought for my 1971 fastback.

I’m guessing the short ones are 72 and earlier.

Edit......
Looks like the short paddles are 71-72.
The longer paddles 73-74. Not sure how consistant the red button is. Mine had it.
Black switches are 75+
Tricon switch is 68-70.
 
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I’m guessing the short ones are 72 and earlier.

Edit......
Looks like the short paddles are 71-72.
The longer paddles 73-74. Not sure how consistant the red button is. Mine had it.
Black switches are 75+
Tricon switch is 68-70.

Could this be the correct WIPAC switch , or was it black buttons ?

Evolution of the shape of the Lucas 169SA switches?
 
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The red kill switch seems to be rather random. There have been other discussions regarding it and as near as I know there has never been a consensus as to what determined which bikes got it.
 
The Norton Commando Gold Portfolio (page 88) lists 26 changes between the 750 and "the new big Norton" 850 includes item 5: "The latest Lucas switches are fitted, incorporating longer flashing and dipper controls. The push-button extend more prominently. A red kill button is fitted."

On review, The Norton Commando 850 Interstate - Road Test (Cycle Australia) review of April '73 says the following: "The Lucas "space age" switches are supposed to have been improved. Actually, all that has happened is that the blinker and light switches have been lengthened. It hasn't made them any better. On the right-hand bar are a kill switch button (only kills the motor while your thumb is on it), a nothing button, and the indicators (as mistake, this, it makes throttle operation coming into crossroads very difficult). On the left-hand bar are the headlight switch, horn, and headlight flasher buttons. Only the latter two are satisfactory. If we bought a Norton we'd be tempted to replace the lot."

Ouch. The pair of switches I have from an April 1974 include on the right side a red kill button, black button, and double-thrown paddle in black. On the left, a single-throw black paddle with two black buttons.
 
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