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sportster dating
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How can i tell if my 73 xlh is an early 73 model or a late 73 model? I
need to order some parts and need this info.
Any help you can give i would appreciate.
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Serial Numbers and the help of a QUALIFIED parts guy in a REAL Harley
dealership.
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Great... Just what we need, FAKE Harley dealers. What do they sell,
Ridleys?
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Early 1973 XL's had significant differences over late 73 XL's. Early 1973's,
those actually manufactured in 1972 were the last bikes assembled in
Milwaukee. In January 1973 production started in York. Also in 1973 several
federal mandates took place that impacted late 73's. The big differences are
1. Early 73's had the tailight assembly introduced in 1955. It had the oval
lense and a glass insert to light the license plate. Late 73's had the
cheapo plastic assembly, that still may be in use today.
2. Early 1973's had no provision for turn signals. They had no holes drilled
in the fender supports for the mounting of turn signals. Late 73's had turn
signals.
3. Early 73's had the internal push/pull throttle. No spring return. A
simple throttle that lasted forever. I think late 73's had external spring
loaded throttle cable.If someone knows better on this feel free to correct
me.
4. Same with the handlebars. Early 73's were the last year for those cool
two piece bars. I think they changed to the one piece bar on mid model 73's.
Again I'm not absolutely sure about that.
5. The mounting patttern on the heads/cylinders was different on early 73's.
72's and early 73's could only be rebored to .030 over. Late 73 top end were
modified to change that. The big giveaway here is that late 73 XL's had a 12
point head bolt rather than the five sided bolt used since 1957.
6. Another biggy if you have an original bike is that late 73's made in York
had clear coat over the tank and fender decals. early 73's did not.
7. Early 73's had the two hole LP bracket. Late 73's had the stronger 3 hole
assembly.
Many other changes, most of them minor. I own two early 73's, one that I
bought new in 72, the other I just finished restoring. IMHO early 1973
XLCH's were the last pure HD's made. Constant f------ maintenance but a
great ride. You could go places on a 73 Sportster in 1973, that you couldn't
dream of today. The old timers out there will understand that.
In terms of chassis and engine parts, almost everything is
interchangeable, mix & match with the exception of heads and cylinders.
Earlys can't be matched with lates.
If you have any specific questions, drop an email and I'll be happy to
help.
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