I was hoping to get a good tip on the best way to tell if certain parts from different models and years will fit my 1996 FLSTF. Is there an easy and accurate way?

Which "certain" parts?

I'm pretty sure a acetylene headlight from 1909 won't fit without a little re-working.

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like wise I think some minnor work is requiered to fit a `02 duce in a wla45

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S.T.D.E

You could get a HD accessory catalog and check out the "multi-fit" items and see what might cross over to your bike in the same "family" of bikes.`96 to `08 might not give you much .Evo/TC for one thing.Axle/wheel components are probably a no go unless you change out things in a wholesale manner.Get an aftermarket catalog and look up an item you would like and see how it`s listed and they will most likely state the years that it will fit. Then you can draw your own conclusions.Toby

Most parts from the 90's on up will swap.When TwinCams came along inner primary's and the obvious things are different.

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2002 RK 124" S&S Evo
2006 RK 155" R&R TwinCam

A lot of parts from 84 to 99 Softails are interchangeable (for example, I just put a 99 fatboy rear fender on my 93 FXSTS)...

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