1963 triumph frame identification

[richbob]

I have a 63 frame DU 387 i know it is for a 650 unit bike but which model
I've searched the net but nothing.(i don't really want to pay TOMCC for info)
Also what subframe and swingarm would fit (any model up to OIF?)
And would 71 OIF Fork Yokes fit (bearing change etc.)
Any knowledge much appreciated.

[VonWegener]

I never had a '63 but I sure that the sub frames from 63-70 will fit. There is a variation in the oil tank mounting on the sub frames so you need to get the oiltank that fits your frame.
Regarding the OIF forks, Triumph used a modified '68 650 frame for the 750 Triples and when they changed to the OIF forks Triumph made a new bearing kit to adapt those forks to the old style frame. You can also use one of those Timken conversion for the 63-70 frame and machine two spacers but the factory parts are more elegant.

[Tony the torch]

the 63 frame is pretty much a one year only frame.

Lot's of pre unit parts are still used, I remember something different in the foot peg and frame mount area, as well the oil tank as well as a bunch of other smaller things.

I could be wrong..... but they used the 60-62 duplex pre-unit front end on the 63, so the rake may also be different form the later unit frames.

hardtail it.

.

[richbob]

Thanks Von & Tony
I knew about the Foot rests but didn't know about oil tank
I have a hard tail but with 4 rigid's now i was thinking something with suspension.

[whittiger650]

Unfortunately, I believe the only way to truly know if your frame was for a TR6 or T120 is to go through the VMCC and get the info from the dispatch records of which they have control of.


http://www.vmccshop.net/c/590/library-services

[Truckedup]

This is a 63 Bonneville




This is a 66 Bonneville...



There are differences on the various brackets and such,. I'm no expert but the tin parts like oil and fuel tanks look the same as does the frame..The 63 Steering neck is steeper than later models..Not to say all the parts will interchange.
Bobbers are everywhere, dare to be different and build a swing arm bike

[CookieMonster]

Yeah, like this:



Comfy, good for long distance, nice big tank (I know that's a pre-unit).

Then again, if your last trumpet is anything to go by, whatever you do with this will be cool by anyone's standards.

[Ratso]

I hope all the swingarm rear sections for Triumph frames are being carefully put away somewhere and lovingly curated in anticipation of the coming resurgence of swingarm bikes. Hardtail Triumphs can certainly look swell but man I hate to see so many British bikes lose their reasonably goodlooking and highly functional back ends. Your rigid bikes are so tasteful and thoughtfully put together that I know your swingarm version is gonna be great.

[richbob]

Thanks Truckedup,Monster and Ratso
Yea I'm thinking cannibalise my blue bike (not worth what i put into it.Bobbers are old hat.)
Looks like this clears up subframe differences (on your favourite auction site now)
Trust me to have a rare frame (200 for subframe)

From site.

"1963 Triumph 650cc rear frame section. Frame has tapered lugs for 1963 foot pegs. Foot pegs changed for 1964 and mounted on rear motor mounts but rear frame section stayed the same as used in 1963. Frame did change deleting tapered lugs in 1965. Looks straight surface rust only seat latch is missing knob. Please look closely at the pictures and ask questions."

[richbob]

Looking closely at other subframes looks like the only difference is the conical/tapered foot rest boss.