Gas Tank Support

[Gramps]

My 56 M is missing the Gas Tank Support.
Does anyone have one you would part with?
Or could you list pictures of one and measurements so I can make one.
Also explain how it works. Thanks, Gramps

[pd]

I don't have all the measurements for you , but here's a couple of pics that might help you form an image of what it should look like :

Side / bottom :


The bottom of the support has a groove that's about 3/8" wide and maybe 3/32" deep . That groove runs the full length of the support .

End :


You can see how the front is supported via a single bolt with locking nut . The rear of the support simply slides onto the 1/4" square 'tongue' that's welded to the flat under 'rail' .
Sorry , that's all I have right now .

Pete .

[Sonrisers]

I made one out of wood temporarily just to hold the tank solid while mocking up the bike. Just cut a piece of walnut about 1 1/2" square and cut a 1/4" groove all the way down it for the seam of the tank. I may just keep it, it seems to work pretty good. Also drilled a partial hole where the bolt can rest w/o sliding around.

[pd]

And here's a pic of my bike that shows the support . You should be able to get a pretty good idea of it's length ,

[Gramps]

Thanks for the help and photos. It is not as complicated as I though it would be.
I guess that is why the name is Simplex.
I did a Google search for extruded aluminum shapes and came up with this.
http://cfnewsads.thomasnet.com/images/large/030/30586.jpg
Looks like there may be a shape or two that would work, like the one at top left, depending on size.
I am going to make one out of wood as you suggested to use in the construction stage as it will no doubt be in & out many times. In the end I want everything as original as I can get it and get the parts for. Thanks again, Gramps

[pd]

If I had to replace mine , I'd form it from hard wood . A couple minutes on the table saw and a minute or two with a router . Maybe add a couple of cross screws for insurance and paint it aluminum color . No one would be the wiser , other than the folks that read this post .

Pete .

[butch27]

Wayne McHaffey sold me an aluminum one.

[admin]

I sent Mike Sal some aluminum extrusion that I found on eBay. He is milling a small slot in it to replicate the original.  I will post a picture when I get it back.

[Mike Sal]

I'm hoping to complete this project this weekend if possible.  I recently moved my mill from one building to another & I don't have 220 in that building yet.  I haven't moved the lathe yet so it's still running. 

Today though, it's off to mom's house for a feast!  Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving. 
Mike Sal

[pd]

Same to you Mike and say Hi to Mom for us .