Left side ignition cover woes

[ramprat]

On the 88 VT1100 Shadow, the left side chrome cover over the battery and ignition has two tabs at the top and a screw on the bottom. We have a problem I'm not totally sure about, but it has to do with the rear most upper tab, and how it seats. I think the grommet might be wrecked, but the tab may be messed up too. Before I do much probing, I'd like to know any experiences you have with any of the 3 spots. I am realizing the side cover won't come flying off since the key keeps it to the bike, but I can't seem to get it to go on right, just basically down with the screw.

Any advice?

Joel in the Couve

[PainterD]

My '96 is similar to yours. The top of the cover has two rubber grommets in the frame to accept the tabs on the backside of the cover, with one screw on the bottom to hold it on, so you can't lose it. The tabs on my cover are metal and can't break off very easy, so unless yours is different, it should work if you replace the rubbers on the frame. There are electrical grommets that will work in place of the original factory grommets that should work just fine.

[ramprat]

Thanks, PainterD.....that's kinda what I was thinking. I am pretty sure my cover is metal too, as it sounds that way when it gets tapped. Any ideas what the dimensions are for the grommets? I'm gunna have to look at the tab closer too....not sure why it has electrical tape on it.

[93gc40]

Eletrical tape is a Red neck grommet. Best thing to do is measure the hole and post and find a grommet that fits. Probably get the grommets at Honda, easier but expensive.

[GlenRoberts]

Hey All™,
You might have to do as I've done. Learn to live with it, and get it to fit the best you can. I've given up on ever getting it to fit perfect, but it really doesn't bother me anymore. As you know, it's not going to fall off, since it has a bolt in the bottom. Once you get used to riding your bike, you'll be able to feel it touching your leg, and push it back in. I've done this going down the road, or at a intersection.

[Rev.SpongebobSP]

I have similar issues with mine, but i stepped it up a notch and lost the screw and do not know what size to purchase to replace it.

[Globewalker]

I have 99 750 shadow ACE.. and it took me awhile to get that cover off.. I didn't know about the hidden keeper on the top pin...
It does not seem to be documented in the owners manual or repair manual.

I too have a screw at the bottom and 3 pins that snap into the grommets (only top one has the keeper/clip). Mine stays on good and solid .. grommets are in good shape.

[elfnyc]

5$ from jpcycle
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[93gc40]

Originally Posted by Rev.SpongebobSP

I have similar issues with mine, but i stepped it up a notch and lost the screw and do not know what size to purchase to replace it.

Havent had that screw since the fist time I took it off, 10 years ago.
By the way its the same size as the batery terminals and most of the other screws on the bike with a 10mm head. Go to the hardware store and buy 2 scews 1 course and 1 fine. The one that doesn't fit goes into the tool box as a spare for something else.