Well, I finally got my hands on an Ironhead - a 1977 XLT. I've got a lot of plans for this new project, and I'm sure I'll have about a thousand questions along the way... First question - what are the differences between the XLT and the XLH?
Right now it needs a new starter and a battery. Where is a good place to order parts online?
I also know I need to get my hands on a service and parts manual. Nothing on ebay at the moment, but I'm keeping an eye out.
The XLT is a touring model. It originally had the hard saddlebags and for 1977 the Superglide style fuel tank. The short sissy bar and the 2"over forks look to be the only special parts left. Other missing parts include the original two-part seat and, of course, the original turn signals.
Are you certain it needs an new starter? It is a perhaps tedious but not difficult job to refurbish what you have. With very few exceptions refurbished original parts are far far far better than new after market parts. Here's some help ...
Use these part numbers for searching for manuals ...
Service manual is 99484-78
Parts manual 99451-78B
The best parts are NOS or used Harley Davidson parts; the best place to buy is eBay. You always need to use the part numbers from the parts catalog when searching.
After market new parts, especially internal engine parts, must never be trusted. You would not believe just how bad these can be. If you must use these post pics of the new and the old and get expert advice.
These are the ones to try for NOS parts that i know of ...
04-13-2015, 04:59 PM
My "new" Ironhead!
