Wheels & Turn Signals

[beemer]

Hello,
I'm new to RE5s and the forum and have many questions. I hope some experienced members can help.
I'd like to restore the wheels on my '76 and see that Suzuki still supplies spokes and nipples. I noticed, too, that the part numbers have been changed for these items. Do these parts actually differ from the originals (and how) or was it simply a number change? Are the wheel rims of the RE5 unique or are they shared with other models. Also, I'd like to make new stems for the front and rear turn signals as mine are missing. Does anyone know the overall length of the arms minus the threaded studs?
Many thanks in advance!

[new2rotary]

I am also new to the re5 but in my own research have found that if you have a question ask Jess Stockwell over at rotaryrecycle.net he probably knows more then anyone

[RE5Gary]

ummmmmmmmm, yes that is true but that is also why this forum is here. Jess comes on here also to answer questions and if you notice, a lot of questions have been answered here by Jess and many other very knowledgeable members from around the world. That also leaves a permanent answer to questions that people would have on the RE5. I'm sure Jess is more than willing to answer questions about the RE5 via the phone but having questions answered here also helps all the members of the forum and hopefully helps cut down on Jess's workload. We are very lucky to have Jess and Rotary Recycle and all the other members here to help us with our RE5's.

[beemer]

Well, I believe I have an answer to my rim question. I just got a copy of a Suzuki cross reference parts list and it appears that the RE5 wheel rims are used only on the RE5.

[RE5Gary]

To the best of my knowledge that is correct. My front turn signals are shorter than stock so measuring them won't help. Not sure if I can measure the rears mounted but if I can, I will. Doesn't anyone have turn signal stems that aren't mounted that you could measure?

[maleric]

I worked for a Suzuki dealer for several years. They did change part numbers (mostly they referred to it as 'supersede'). In some cases, superseded part numbers could mean identical parts, in other cases there were slight (mostly cosmetic) differences - but the parts would 'fit' and they would 'function'. However, if you want to perform a restoration, and you want everything to be original, then you will need to double check with a knowledgeable person before you spend the cash. Some dealerships have helpful parts clerks that will spend the time to research the differences with you and if you bring in the old part and IF he can pull an item off the shelf, the comparison is easy. In the case of spokes and rims, it is probably the surface finish that is different: chromed vs. polished. There was something unique about the RE5 rims, but I can't recall - I think they were polished and clear coated, whereas other models (GT 750) were chromed... Jess might know the difference off the top of his head, or he may have to look it up - but he is the best resource if you can't find a helpful parts clerk at a Suzuki dealership.

[ziggystardust]

Original RE5 rims were made from magnesium then finished with a clear coat of lacquer.

If you have your wheels rebuilt with stainless steel spokes they look really good and of course don't rust.

[Jess]

As usual, Ziggy is correct

Best,

[shep]

I have some Model A signals I'd be willing to part with.