ModeratedUser

Hello all,

I was wondering if someone can give me an idea how to differentiate between certain models of the 7400 seatposts. First of all I do want the "aero" design post, and I'm also wanting the "deep engraving" on the logo. Sorry, I don't have original pics on what I'm confused about, but I do have ebay references. I don't even know if there were differences in engraving styles or I just took too much medication!

I'm thinking there's at least two. One is light engraving like at ebay item 161372808727,
Shimano Dura-Ace 27.2 mm Diameter Seat Post in Good Condition

and then deep engraving like at ebay item 261535236451,
Shimano Dura Ace Seatpost SP 7400 27 2mm 200mm Long VGC 00671 | eBay

So am I right? How is it differentiated? Is it by model number? Years? Is it called "engraved"? How many Dura Ace aero styled were there?

Thanks for any and all replies as it is much appreciated!

gaucho777 

To be honest, I'm not seeing the difference. They sure look like the same post to me. I should add that, as far as I know, these only came with a nice satin finish. The link you provided for the "deep engraving" example looks like it has been polished to a mirror finish. Often that polishing can round the edges of the engraving if you aren't careful with the sandpaper around the logo area. The stamp (or whatever it's called that makes the engraving) can change over time, so you may find slight differences due to when the part was made in the production timeline, even if they are identical parts otherwise. Maybe that is what you are seeing (or maybe it is the meds ).

According to velobase, this post (SP-7400-B; as opposed to the fluted, non-areo SP-7400-A) was available from 1988-1995:
VeloBase.com - Component: Shimano SP-7400-B, Dura-Ace


Can't blame you for wanting one. It's a terrific seat post!

pcb 

This is a terrific post, but the bottom cradle frequently develops a crack at the center/rear. I've never had one crack on me in use, but I've bought a couple that arrived with cracked cradles. If I'm buying one these days, I always ask the seller to verify crack-free status. Shimano no longer has replacements, and the cracked cradle will allow the saddle to slip, so it's good practice to check before you buy. Same issue with the 600-series posts, BTW.

dddd

Thanks for the tip on possible cracked cradles.

I like the way the adjustment screw on these limits the back-tilt before the main bolt is tightened.

ModeratedUser

Man that logo sure looks blue. You followed someone's "tips and tricks" on doing this, or just did it on your own? Any tips?

gaucho777 

Yeah, I filled all the logos with blue paint. It's actually really simple and requires no talent. Paint onto/into the engraved area. Small, stiff art brushes work well for this. Don't worry if the paint gets past the engraved logo. Wait about 10 minutes for the paint to start to settle. Then take a clean rag and put a little acetone/paint thinner/nail polish remover on the rag (not wet, just a little damp), and wipe away any excess paint.

ModeratedUser

Nice job on the details!

Getting back to the original post, alot of sellers on ebay don't provide details on what I consider the most important part of the post, and that is the logo. Occasionally there is some that REALLY go overboard. Item 261544221891, Shimano Dura Ace 27 2 Aero Seatpost | eBay