I'm in the process of starting to reassemble a 1938 model 18 that I acquired in 20 or so boxes. This is my first prewar and don't have access to other bikes to review. I would like toget it properly assembled before I take it apart again and begin it's restoration. Initially I would like ask what would be the best resources to help me sort it all out. I have purchased a few service and parts books but most are heavy on text but short on pictures and nothing with the depth of info that can be found in commando manuals. The most recent being the 1938 parts book being offered on this site which I'm waiting for delivery of. My biggest quandary is the hardware. Second what plating is used on the hardware. The hardware appears to be in good shape but needs it's finish redone.
Thanks
Lots of discussion previou…
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It's easy to get carried…
It's easy to get carried away when restoring a bike, here a lovely 1938 Model 20 twin port that's been a bit over restored with the plating polished off and left brass and parts chromed that should be black like the fork linkages and springs. Also the gearbox nuts, clutch arm and linkage should be black along with the kickstart spring cover. I know this is being picky, but as you're asking how it should be. What you decide looks best for your bike is up to you
Iâve attached an original picture of a 1938 Model 18, note the "Cows Udder" exhaust that was fitted to all 38 Norton's. Good luck finding one or making one. Most people don't like the look of them.
Thereâs also a picture of an unrestored bike showing the gearbox and plating and my WD16H showing the dull chrome and black parts on the gearbox. Note my kickstart spring cover has been dull chromed, this is because after looking through some original pictures with Rik Payne, we found a bike with a plated cover instead of black. However, I think this was an exception as the majority are black. Your gear lever and kickstart would be bright chromed not dull. All the black parts I oil blacked and it has lasted well. I hope this helps.
Sorry I could only add the pictures as attachments.
Attachments
16H%20003crop.JPG
1938%20Model%2018.jpg
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Thanks either dull or brig…
Thanks either dull or bright chrome is simple enough, I would have guessed nickel and chrome. I did review all 63 pages in the singles section for plating conversations. I did find lots of very helpful info but not anything relating to plating before I asked. I'm in Windsor Ontario Canada and have found 2 other bikes similar to mine but they are not close enough to me to go look at anytime. The owners have agreed to be of assistance but I was hoping for some book references so I do notend up being a nuisance to them. I have found a copy of the EM Franks book in Australia andpurchased it. This is just the kind of challenge I thoroughly enjoy.
Thanks for the reply
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Great pictures I will add…
Great pictures I will add to the others I have accumulated. Could you explain "oil blackened" that is a new one to me. Since the cows udder was discontinued before production was completed in 1938 I will not be putting any effort in that direction. Maybe down the road when I have nothing better to do or spend on. Just getting all the bolts and screws in the correct place is going to keep me busy for a while. The bike was completely disassembled, it was another gentleman's project started some 20 years ago. some good work has been done and even somewhat sorted in an organised manner. It appears to very complete even lots of spares. I did the quick check with the registry and the frame, motor and gearbox numbers check with the dispatch records.
Thanks for the reply
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For oil blacking, I heated…
For oil blacking, I heated the nut up to cherry red and quenched it in old engine oil. Do it outside as it smokes and catches fire. I did it a couple of time on each part and the result is excellent. It's been on there a few years now and still looks great, a spray of WD40 every now and then to help protect it, but easy enough to re-do if needed.... and cheap 
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Lots of discussion previously on this site about plating. Nortons used dull chrome finish on nuts and bolts. It looks silvery-white. If it is assembly that's the issue... no substitute for looking at originals at (say) Norton events or shiny bike shows. Where do you live?As second best..try vintagenorton web site for lots if pictures.