Seat build...XS 360 / 400 (official seat build thread now)...

Thanks a bunch guys.

I realize that since I've changed this thread from "Opinions Wanted" to the "Official Build" thread, I should show you all how it got started.

Let's jump into the hot tub time machine, and go back about one year.


The shape of the seat comes from a direct mold of the tank. Here is the basic layout of what I envisioned...

DSCN3904s.jpg



The start of laying 'glass over the part of the tank I wanted to copy...

DSCN3910s.jpg



The finished "rough" female mold of the tank...

DSCN3914s.jpg



At this point, I did some work, and forgot to take pics. I laid 'glass in this mold (cloth/mat/cloth/mat/cloth). Trimmed to the lines I had drawn on the tank. Then, I removed about 1.5" from the centerline to narrow the cowl for a better fit on the frame.

Some angle steel, street sign and pop rivets for the pan, and we're pretty much back to where this thread begins...

DSCN5731.jpg



Great White Buffalo... Great White Buffalo... Great White Buffalo...
 
how does the tail section follow the lines of the frame? The back of the tank follows the same line as the frame. Does the tail follow the other tube of the frame?
I'm talking about where the frame makes a V
 
If it does, I didn't consciously plan it that way. Main concern was comfort. I can take a side view pic of it later today.
 
OK, so here's a Photoshopped rendition of the position of the seat.

seatSideMockUp.jpg


Frame mods are planned, and necessary for proper fit. Nothing too difficult.

This section of the frame (at least on the 360 & 400) will need to be removed and/or flattened...

frameRemove.jpg



Then, this is a rough idea of what I will add to the frame for mounting and proper structure...

frameModifications.jpg


I repeat...this is a rough idea of the frame work to be done. It will be clean and functional!

Hope that answers your question!

Cheers,
-Jeff
 
not sure you want to cut that off ! gives the rear of the frame stiffness and support ! might be able to take it out and put a flater plate there but believe that brace needs to be there !
 
Looks like he is replacing it with another plate which should provide the same structure as before.
Have you thought about including a frame hoop when you sell the tail section?
Also, how long is the tail section exactly? I'm just wondering how far over the back wheel it's going to stick out.
 
I agree as long as you replace it it should be good. if i was cuttong it out i would tack a brace so the rear of the frame didnt move around . but seeing how nice your seat is going think im just saying something you know lol
 
Yeah guys, and there's a chance I won't have to alter that section at all. I know it's going to be really close. The last time I was able to fit the plug onto the frame, it was not closed off at the front of the cowl.

If it hits the seat, it will do so at the part that is radiused, and I don't want any mounting points in that area. Rather have the mounting points on the flat part under the pad, and as I said earlier, I may do some kind of storage compartment opening in the vertical area under the pad.

All rough ideas at this stage. As soon as I get one popped out of the mold, I'll get more detailed. I can say this though. It WILL be done right!

Bryson, I'm at work right now. I can get you some measurements when I get home. As for offering a frame loop, I may offer them if there is enough interest. At the least, I will include a template of whatever I make for mine. That's all a little far off right now. Still many thoughts in my head about what I'm goint to do there.
 
sounds great, a template would be just fine and cut cost down a little and spare you the headache anyway. There will be enough room for a small battery under there correct?
 
Should be plenty o' room.

Dreadrock, you have a 500, correct? The frame is different on them. I'd be interested in some measurements to check compatability if ya wouldn't mind. ;) ;)
 
Yep its a 75 500b . just let me know what you need and ill get it for you ....
 
Thanks man! I forgot, you've already made some mods to yours, huh? Nice work on the loop and "tray", BTW!

I think I'll start another thread asking for measurements on the different year XS's. I'm hoping to find out what mods (if any) need to be made to the frame on models other than what I've got.
 
WOW!!! Been looking for a tail section just like this... can t find it anywhere. Nice work hurricane7!

I hope you will be making some to sell! IF SO I WANT ONE. Perfect for my 76 xs500. My frame is still stock... Let me know if you need any measurements...

Cheers and keep up the awesome work!
 
j171 said:
WOW!!! Been looking for a tail section just like this... can t find it anywhere. Nice work hurricane7!

I hope you will be making some to sell! IF SO I WANT ONE. Perfect for my 76 xs500. My frame is still stock... Let me know if you need any measurements...

Cheers and keep up the awesome work!

Thanks man! The plan is to make one for anyone that wants one (provided it doesn't get too crazy of a work load). Not formally taking orders until I make 1 or 2 seats, and test them first. ;)


I have an 82 XS400. Let me know if you need me to measure anything.

Charles, if you could, go to my post in the "1-800-CAFE-HELP" section for posting measurements...

http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=30772.0


There's like 3 different frames for the '82 XS400! For some good microfiche drawings, you can check out...

http://www.cmsnl.com/yamaha-xs400_model16837/

...select your particular year/model, and post the relevant info at the link above.

Thanks!
-Jeff
 
Great looking seat! As far as right now I'm planning on making something out of my stock seat, BUT if I change my mind, I might have to hit you up for one of those if you decide to distribute them. Got any idea how much your going to get for them?

Also I haven't started ripping my 77 XS 400 apart yet (still completely stock except for clubmans and upgraded ignition), so if you need any measurements just let me know and I'll be glad to help.
 
Thanks Rodney,

Yeah, I liked the stock seat too, but mine was in a pretty bad state when I got it, along with a buggered and cracked frame just behind the shocks, from a luggage rack. It made sense to hack it off! I still have the stock 360 for reference though.

I do plan on making some to sell, but haven't figured on an exact price just yet. I figure anywhere from $100 to $140 or so.?

I just ordered materials from US Composites today. Enough to make the mold and at least 4 or 5 seats. If the temps don't drop too low, I should have one done in a couple of weeks!

Cheers,
-Jeff
 
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