New sheet metal on older Softail, is it possible?

[TonyJ]

Its getting harder to find HD rear fenders and tanks for the older softails like 97-99's. With so many 00 and up fenders and tanks avaliable, I was wondering if anyone has susessfully mounted the newer style on the older bike? And what all it entailed. (I know the front fender is interchangeable)

Thanks

[kustom_flames]

The rear fender usually will need to be redrilled for the struts, and possibly a newer style taillight....Tanks, I have no idea though...think much more may be involved there....

[ChopperDude]

The Evo models have two separate "halves" to the tank, whereas the newer is one piece. The mounting method, as well as how the wiring harness is done there, would make it VERY difficult to mount a new tank on an Evo.

You would have to be a VERY good fabricator, as you'd have to weld new mounting points on the frame, etc.

[kustom_flames]

Yeah, I know about the split tanks, but the newer ones do have a channel inside, which should accomodate part of the frame...I know the mounting tabs are smaller and may have been relocated some to fit the newer frame style too.

My guess, is that it would not be worth the effort in trying to retrofit newer to old due to the mods involved.

Also, they do make an aftermarket kit that would allow split tanks to fit 00+ frames...not sure if they have done the reverse....but again, I think it would be lots of work and end up costing you even more money....

The 99 down stuff is scarce, but if you are patient, you are bound to find something on ebay...