need clarification on part numbers

[KOOLNICK]

Hey fellas, I was wondering if somebody could confirm my understanding of some part numbers or let me know if I'm wrong. For instance: on these muffler numbers below, I would think they can be swapped because of the first base number in the part number being the same and by that I mean the first 5 digits. Is this the correct way of thinking?..Nick

1981GS1000GL- RH-14310-49130
LH-14340-49130

1981GS1000G- RH-14310-49010
LH-14340-49010

[hikermikem]

Usually the "L" model exhaust doesn't readily fit the other models...

Different angle in the front on the pipes, & the mounting lugs/holes will most likely be off...

Perhaps you can make them fit, but you'll want to try them on the bike first if you can before you buy.

[bwringer]

No, they're still different part numbers. You can't really infer anything about interchangeability from part numbers alone. Plus, I know that G and GL mufflers are different in appearance and sound.

You may also want to verify these part numbers from a couple of different sources. I usually use Flat Out ( http://flatoutmotorcycles.com/fiche_select.asp ) and Alpha-Sports ( http://alpha-sports.com/ ) for this, since they use different part number databases. Alpha-Sports also gives you the part number supercession history.

To cross-reference part numbers, use Babbitt's search function. ( http://www.babbittsonline.com/ ).

[KOOLNICK]

So basically what you are telling me bwringer, is that unless all 10 digits in the number are the same then they may or may not fit.

[bwringer]

So basically what you are telling me bwringer, is that unless all 10 digits in the number are the same then they may or may not fit.

Correct.

With o-rings and some bolts, you can infer a few things about sizing from the part number, but with everything else, there's little rhyme or reason.

The exception would be a superceded part, where Suzuki replaced an old part number with a new one. They will fit and function the same, but often look different. For example, many cosmetic and bodywork parts are listed as still available, but the new parts don't look exactly like the old ones, or arrive unpainted. Gaskets get new part numbers quite a bit as they improve materials or consolidate part numbers -- for example, sometimes a very minor change will allow a gasket to fit several more models.

They also supercede parts to improve function, or if a supplier changed -- the spline coupler in the rear wheel of GS shafties is on its third part number.

The fiche at Alpha-Sports will start with the original part number and show you each superceded part number along the way.

[KOOLNICK]

Thanks bwringer.You've cleared that up quite well.At least I can order parts with some confidence now....Nick