The 73 that I just picked up has been modified quite a bit. I have started looking it over and I'm a little bit lost. I hate starting with something that someone else has modified. My first question, is the engine supposed to be centered in the frame? Mine is offset to the left, facing forward, about an inch. There are tabs welded to the frame that create this offset.

 

Post some pics so we can see what you are referring to. Is it a stock frame with shocks or aftermarket hardtail frame, or whatever?

 

Mike its an aftermarket hardtail frame. Not sure what kind.

 

Here's two pictures from the sides.

 

post some closeup pics of the frame neck area to see if it started out as a 1973 frame . .

 

72, I know it started as a 73. My buddy and I dug it out of his parent's barn in ... 2006ish. It was completely stock when we pulled it out. He had Northeast Chop Shop do the hardtail. He probably only rode it ten times since then. I just don't know what all they did when they modified the bike and seeing as how I've never worked on an Ironhead I don't know what stock looks like.

 

I'll get some pictures tonight.

 

From general knowledge i believe it is typical that the engine does not appear to be centered in any frame, but i am not knowledgeable about frames.

 

Here's a couple images of the frame.

 

a few more of the frame and some of the issues I'm dealing with.