Left fork bottom from 3CV similar to 3XW or whats different?

[Urx]

One of the 'brace' mounts on the left fork lower is stripped beyond saving but i have a brand new left hand 3xw lower on the shelf. Before i start stripping and swapping and fiddling...
Anyone know what the significant differences are between the lowers?

[RPM - Robert]

89-95 are the same lowers.
84-87 are the same lowers.

Would it not be easier to heli coil the stripped hole?

[Urx]

Helicoil is definitely an option ...but if the new fork bottom will fit without issue (or much fettling) then that would likely be better.
Never really fully trusted helicoils if there is any stress involved... probably without cause but....personal prejudice i guess.

[FJmonkey]

Helicoils in aluminum are much stronger than the original aluminum.

[RPM - Robert]

+1 on what Monkey said.

Also, that strap is no brace it is there to hold the fender. The thin piece of aluminum flexes Willy nilly as seen by the broken fender tabs. If you want a brace that actually lessens fork flex, you need one of these
Fork Brace

[FJmonkey]

We have covered this a few times. https://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=14734.msg149000#msg149000

[Millietant]

I'd go with the helicoil too Doug - you can have it done a lot quicker an easier than swapping fork bottoms 

[Urx]

Ok so the helicoil set has arrived and ill see if i can get a satisfactory repair done...as a back up plan i also sourced a brand new fork leg (it was surprisingly cheap)
.