79sf Parts Inconsistencies

[Shuriken]

Okay, I recently ordered 2 items for my 79sf (3h3) and none of the parts fit.

The seat I have for it fits kinda funky, and it was advertised as a 79sf seat. The bike says 1979 on the frame and 3h3 for serial.

80 midnight side panels don't even come close to fitting. Anybody want a pair?

I need 2 side panels for a 79sf (I guess) that have slotted hanger holes for both right and left sides. Also, I need a rear grab bar that fits.

Is there something I am missing with this bike identification or am I getting parts that are advertised as 79sf parts but are really from another year/model?

Ben

[Shuriken]

Would the fellow XSives with 79sf models chime in so I can yak at 'ya about parts?

Ben

[rover]

A 3h3 serial no IS a 79SF. It sounds like the seat is from a standard. The SF has the TCI box UNDER the seat, and the F has it just under the rear seat cowling. Where did you get the seat that you have? If it was on your bike when you got it, the PO might have changed it, or an ebay seller labeled it wrong. I have sent emails to many ebay sellers that the parts they were selling were mislabeled, but I have only seen ONE out of at least ten change the listing. Mid Spec covers are just that; midnight special covers, and are unique to that model. The grab bar you are looking for is made of tubing. I have one from a mid spec, it will fit on an SF seat, but it is the wider cast alum one, and mine would need much refinishing, it is gold with most of the gold tarnished off. Over the years, I have bought several parts that were mislabeled, and did not fit, so I know where you are coming from. I feel bad for you, but there is not much I can do.

[Jerry]

We feel your pain. There are a lot of mislabeled parts out there. I try to verify with the seller a part number if I can, or take a good close look at the photo, if there is one.

My XJ1100 is also a Maxim, name was used by Yamaha on a bunch of other bikes. Not to mention the confusion between the FJ and the XJ, both available in '82 and both 1100cc. My current instrument cluster came from eBay and was listed as an FJ part, which excplains why I got it at a good price. A lot of folks think all XS pieces are interchangeable. When I see mislabeled parts I sometimes let the seller know, had a guy pull a bunch of mislabeled parts off and relisted them later, so sometimes it helps.

Not much you can do except get as much info as possible from the seller and take your chances, or if the seller isn't sure, work out a return contingency plan before you bid.

[Shuriken]

I'm not overly concerned about eating the parts. They can be resold. I just need to know for sure that they will work, I guess.

Ben