Resolved: Patching into the dash harness. Dash Connector.

[Artful]

Success. Found the correct receptacle, Tyco Part No. 6437288-6. http://www.tycoelectronics.com/catalog/bin/TE.Connect?C=1&M=BYPN&TCPN=6437288-6&RQPN=6437288-6

The best news? They will send free samples so I'm not out a nickel. If this hair brained scheme ends up working I could feasibly build adapter harnesses for folks looking to add aftermarket gauges.

Thanks everyone, especially DucHead for the help. The board comes through on a project again.

[Artful]

Parts arrived today, here's what they look like for reference.

[MotoCreations]

the female connector on the early bikes is a metal piece on a piece of plastic that mounts into the back of the cluster cover.

I don't have the part # in front of me for the older style round metal connector w/twist lock -- but it is a common aircraft connection.  I've had a few built by helicopter guys for me as they usually have the parts in stock or in their toolbox.

[jerryz]

I'd pin in if I could find the correct pins.

3M makes a sealing tape (found at electrical supply houses) that will eliminate the water issue.While not butt ugly it isn't exactly visually appealing. IMO it would be better than cutting.

Its normally called SELF AMALAMATING TAPE used offshore and in telecoms it bonds and seals very well and can look very tidy.

[671M900]

I don't have the part # in front of me for the older style round metal connector w/twist lock -- but it is a common aircraft connection.  I've had a few built by helicopter guys for me as they usually have the parts in stock or in their toolbox.

Cannon plugs I think. I used to use them when I was working on stuff in the airforce. Pinning those things are a pain in the ass. I do want the part number for the cannon plug though.