Hitchcocks Forum

I have most of a Mk1 interceptor in bits.

It is missing the toolbox/battery box arrangement and I need to know which one I need.

I see that our hosts supply a new unit, but it costs about half the price I paid for the bike, so I think I'll look for a used one.

I have read somewhere that early Interceptors used the same size toolbox lids as the Crusader type, but can anyone confirm this please?

Check the on-line parts books and see if the numbers match?



A.

Allan what year is your Interceptor? I ask because the type of toolbox fitted depends on whether it is a Home Market or Export bike. From 1962 to early 1965 all the bikes had the large toolbox like a late Constellation but in later 65 the small 250 Crusader type toolbox was fitted to the Export bikes, in fact it's the same as the 250 Turbo Twin, which means it does not have the hole for the carburettor air filter connection. I have a 1966 Mk1 Interceptor (built late 65) with this box fitted and I can send you pics if that helps.

REgards, Mark

Hi Mark.

It's a 1964 Mk1 and has a casquette without sidelights, which I believe to be correct for a Mk1.

However, it has the longer swinging arm, which I understand to be correct for an early US export bike.

This could be a later addition to the boxes of bits, of course....

There is no 'tinware' with it, so I would like to build it as an export version, preferring the overall look (and disliking the Constellation-like appearance of the Mk1 home-spec.)

Would I need to find the Turbo Twin (or other 250) toolbox?

Allan, the long swing arm was fitted to all Interceptors from 1964 so that's ok. The no-sidelight Casquette was not fitted to the Inters, only the 350 New Bullet and possibly some other Crusader variants. The correct Casquette for your bike is the post-58 type with the pilot lights set further apart and the more conventional handlebar clamps rather than the plate. For 64 you'd want the large toolbox fitted to the Twins but if you're building the bike your way you can easily use the 250 type, they are not that hard to find. If you will part with your email address I will talk you through it offline, I have both a late Mk1 and a Mk1A which may give you some ideas. You'd be welcome to have a look, I'm near Silverstone.

REgards, Mark

Hi Mark. Please try makeroom2018 at hotmail dot com