I went down to Lowe's to see what they had on hand rather then order something that cost a small fortune with a brand stamp. I found allot of similar materials used in retail like vent filter screen in the right size I also found other wide mesh stainless screen material identical to some seen on other products. Any of these screen materials can be made to fit easily for pennies on the dollar but the problem is that hardly any retail designs do the two most important jobs that I require and need, bug screening to protect the radiator and free flowing air passage at the same time. I also looked at aluminum screening material which in my opinion does screens insects from clogging the radiator, allow free airflow, looks good, easy to install, and cost nothing if you happen to need a door or window re-screened. It just so happened that I needed my sliding back door screen replaced so I purchase a 80x45 roll of black aluminum screen (not plastic screen) for $7.50. After repairing the door I had a section of aluminum screen that was 9 inches wide and 45 inches long, enough to make 2 radiator screens for the B1250 radiator.
Step (1) With a pair of scissors and a long ruler cut a strait rectangular section of screen 8.5 inches wide X 22.5 inches long.
Step (2) With a piece of sharp welders pencil or chock and a ruler as a strait edge draw a border 1/4 inch from all sides. Then use the long hard ruler or long level to bend up the edges 1/4 inch along the line made, first the length all the way over 90 degrees on itself then bend the width same way overlapping the length. Then use a rubber mallet or clean boot (no dog crap) to well flatten and secure the bend. This hem will stop the possibility of unraveling. Now your piece of aluminum black screen should be 8x22 inches and ready to fit into place, the measurement of 8X22 inches is designed to provide ample leeway without any unsightly slack. Now follow the bold text for each photo.
First hold the screen up to the COLD radiator lightly and careful so as not to crease it prematurely, rap the screen around to get an idea where it is centered. Then on one side line up the first pair screw holes where the aluminum radiator guard was already removed and using a marlin spike, pen or pencil, spread open (not rip) a hole to accommodate the aluminum radiator guard screws. NOTE in the photo below the red arrows indicating the spread screen holes where you will easily attach the first side of the aluminum radiator guard over the screen loosely.
Now on the opposite side of the bike and radiator from where you just secured and reinstalled the aluminum radiator guard over the screen, you are ready to repeat the procedure EXCEPT this time you will be holding up the screen against the holes tightly SLIGHTLY stretching the screen, then mark the holes by stretching a hole with a marlin spike, pen or pencil again then let go of the screen and relax for the next important step.
With the holes made this time install the bolts through the aluminum guard and the screen without installing them onto the radiator until they are together first like in the photo below so that they will easily stretch into position and install and without any temper tantrums. Now secure both side to torque, no additional fasteners needed.
With 80 degree temperatures here in SW Arizona I test drove the install for 45 minutes at highway speed 60-80 MPH and this is what the screen looked like when I returned home, exactly like I installed it and with no sign of overheat or damage to the screen. Also note that because the screen is taunt and stands off from the radiator, I believe it will act as a protective shock absorbing shield against debris.
So remember you can spend more, but you cant get a more functional or attractive screen at a lower price LOL.
NOTE: One last thing using this method you can install any gauge screen you like as there are many different types and some that provide better debris protection but do not screen insects as well. You can even use them in combination to get the best of both worlds which will be my next post, maybe something shiny.
Topic: B1250 Radiator bug screen, sharp looking, effective and FREE! (Read 7826 times)