In just a few days of research, I have discovered four types of fork top yolk from the few years of James ML production. I invite comments/pictures from other owners. Ron
1) Doc's in USA which has the parallel tubes but only one grease nipple
2) The tapered type like John Tinley's and Stefano's (no grease nipples)
3) The one with parallel sides and 2 nipples like mine/Matt/Steve/Dave etc
4) the one in the parts list with tapered tubes and with a single nipple.
email (option): ronpier@talk21.com
Good topic Ron ! As far as can be ascertained, the original fork ball-head clip had tapered arms and one grease nipple.......this was part number "ML3"......several early ML's from the original 1943 (bulk) contract for 3,500 ML's have this fitted going by surviving examples........
BUT, there are also several WD ML survivors, also from that first contract, that have a different ball-head clip with "parallel" arms on the clip......some of these bear the part number "ML3A" ("ammended" ?).........it is likely that the original arrangement didn't provide sufficient greasing facility as the modified type.........each arm on the ammended type featuring a grease nipple.......
The ammended type with parallel arms went on to serve post-war versions, and by 1948 (the last year of civvy ML manufacture) suitably accomadated the modified handlebar attachment arrangement by means of a pair of clamps either side........BUT, in the latter case, the pair of grease nipples on the "arms" were deleted (as the clamps sat where the grease nipples were situated) and for some odd reason reverted back to the single, central nipple..........
Our own ML has never been buggered about with, is (late) first contract and the ball-head clip, on stripping, showed traces of the original SCC No.2 brown on the surface..........
Parts lists, WD and the Jan '47 civvy list, still show the tapered lug and WD handlebar arrangement (the latter without the central 'bar locking lever, now only a long bolt) so the clamp arrangement clearly occurred later and likely '47 - '48 for final production...........but I never trust parts lists for complete accuracy...........just look at the WD G3L lists that still show right though WW2 the original fork yoke fittings, speedo bracket, early rear frame, etc...........
Post-war ML's also reveal other subtle modifications affecting not just the forks, but the frame construction, centre stand, stand fixing brackets, tyre pump and mountings, engine gearbox cover castings, etc........little if any of which is reflected in the lists..........
