Welding on bike

I have a /7 and the tang on the centre stand has broken off.

I would like to have a new tang welded on and a larger foot put on the side stand.

Can I have a new tang arc welded back on without taking the stand off the bike and a larger foot put on the side stand without damaging the electric circuitry?

Yes. I'd remove the battery before beginning. The welding ground needs to be placed as close to the weld as practical, making sure it's in good contact with the steel.

Ground clamp on the center stand- not the bike frame. The electrical connection through the pivot point is something to avoid ️
OM

If you are talking about the OEM side stand, or any stand really, be careful about adding material that might contact the exhaust pipe or muffler when retracted.

With regard to the center stand tang, I'd remove the stand from the bike so as to better access a weld all the way around position. Also, it gives you the opportunity to grease the pivot bushings where the stand attaches to the frame.

Stray currents from welding can wreak havoc with electrical systems so if at all possible, remove the center stand from the bike. Your electrical system will thank you later...
If it has to stay on, remove the battery completely as previously stated.

When I welded the new tang on my R90S, I used a 1/4 bolt, the type used to build decks, about 8 inches long. I cut it about a 1/2 inch longer than correct length, ground a flat on the end without the bolt head, and bent it to approximately the correct shape. I then used a pair of vice grips to hold it on the stand while I removed it from the bike. I then welded the tang on and reinstalled the stand. Once on I was able to bend the bolt into a better shape, but I decided that I did not like the bolt head, so I cut it off. It worked well ever since and looked almost factory.

Contrary to popular opinion, there is no need to remove the battery unless it is the old wet cell type with a vent hose. ( Don't ask how I know ). The battery acts as a resistor in the circuit, so there is really no reason to remove it. Even so, it is better to remove the center stand as it is much easier to do a good welding job. You need a good ground and it is much easier to weld the stand with it out of the bike.

Before welding a bigger foot, see if it will clear exhaust etc. Likely you are better off to just get one of those ones you place under the side stand, or crush a beer can/pop can in a pinch. I've picked up the Dunlop ones that the tire manufacturer gives out a BMW National Rally's and they work fine. Just put a piece of weed wacker line on them, so you don't loose them, hook it around the handlebar and you are good to go. Remove before you ride away.

cycleman2 said:

Contrary to popular opinion, there is no need to remove the battery unless it is the old wet cell type with a vent hose. ( Don't ask how I know ). The battery acts as a resistor in the circuit, so there is really no reason to remove it.

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