In a previous post I shared about my customer experience with British Customs and their shipping policies. The item that I had ordered from them was the British Customs Flat Gauge Cluster for the Triumph Bonneville. Alas, it never arrived.
British Customs Flat Gauge Cluster
Since the shipping issue from British Customs had became such a hassle, I started looking at instrument panel alternatives. My friend Lee had told me about D9 Brackets last year, so I went back into my records and looked up the site. Well, there really isn’t a “site.” There is an information section within the NewBonnevilleRiders.com online forums and web community. (Update – there is a website now at bonnevillebrackets.com)
I looked through the high quality photo examples and then emailed Seth Bernstein (Mr. D9 himself) about what I was looking for. He emailed back with several suggestions and I settled on the Pre VDO Ignition Relocation Bracket, Version 3 in black. It allows me to use my stock gauges and indicator lights, plus allows me to relocate my ignition to the center of the panel, more like the Bonneville’s of the 60’s and 70’s.
Pre VDO Ignition Relocation Bracket, Version 3 in black
Well, the box with the new D9 bracket arrived today and here is what I received. Sweet!
Pre VDO Ignition Relocation Bracket, Version 3 in black – Kit
Now, I know there is a significant price difference ($75 vs. $300), but I think the design, look, feel and quality differences are worth it. Can’t wait to get it installed on my 2008 Triumph Bonneville.
Today I removed the stock instrument cluster bracket and gauges, headlight bucket, and Joker Machine ignition side mount bracket, plus all the wiring that goes with it.
Front end stripped down to basics.
Joker Machine billet aluminum ignition side mount kit
Test fit the gauges in the D9 Bracket.
March 8-9, 2014 Update
This weekend I was able to complete another small step in the process by spraying the black instrument cups with Plasti Dip spray.
Instrument cups sprayed with black Plasti Dip
March 15, 2014 Update
I was able to start reassembling my instrument panel today. I followed the instructions provided by D9 Brackets.
D9 Instrument panel reassembly
March 16, 2014 Update
I was able to assembling my instrument panel further today. I first completed repairing my ignition wiring harness using Performix Liquid Tape.
Ignition harness repair
D9 instrument panel nearing completion.
D9 Bracket back with wiring and cups on the gauges. Ready to install!
March 18, 2014 Update
I was able to mount the new D9 Bracket and instrument cluster on my Bonnie this evening to test for fit. Looks good to me!
Woohoo!
Can’t wait for my drawings, from him. 🙂
That looks GREAT!!
Hi Randy, how do I buy from D9?
Thanks,
Emmanuel
Emmanuel,
You can visit the D9 Bonneville Brackets website here: http://bonnevillebrackets.com and use the contact or order from to ask questions or place an order directly with the guy who does the work! He is a skilled craftsman and does only excellent work.
Randy