engine differences
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 8,628
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From: Cental, MI
In '79 Only the frame changed...but will still house '77, '78, engines and vice-vis... for the Duration of the 4-speed.
The Evo Sportster (Pre-91 or Pre 5 speed) will also go into a '79 Frame...and of course Vice-Vis.. I do Have an Ironhead in a 5-speed frame...and Have been told that a 5-speed Evo will go into the '79+ frame...But...Never tried that one!!! I have my Doubts...But!!!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 8,628
Likes: 3,389
From: Cental, MI
Went out to double check..I am Afraid I would Not want to do the modifications necessary to put a Mini-Sump Engine into a Pre1977 Chassis.. certainly need to loose the crossbar (footpeg mounts) then clearance for the Primary chain adjuster on left rail, Maybe oil pump clearancing on right rail.. after that..I suspect all good...But, you have ruined Collectability of yer Early Chassis!!
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 39
Likes: 6
From: Patten, Maine
Thanks Racepres, I picked up a 79 XLH leaning against a post buried in sand. I saw it and had to save it, she's in rough shape appearance wise but after digging in to it she's surprisingly sound. My first HD was a 70 XLCH which I really have a soft spot for and was thinking that I might try and go in that direction if it's reasonably affordable.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 8,628
Likes: 3,389
From: Cental, MI
Thanks Racepres, I picked up a 79 XLH leaning against a post buried in sand. I saw it and had to save it, she's in rough shape appearance wise but after digging in to it she's surprisingly sound. My first HD was a 70 XLCH which I really have a soft spot for and was thinking that I might try and go in that direction if it's reasonably affordable.
My Recommendation..
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 39
Likes: 6
From: Patten, Maine
The factory kickers weren't something to write home about lol. I wore a full length leg cast from a slip through that hyperextended my right knee, from my 70. I don't think I will throw the E start.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 8,628
Likes: 3,389
From: Cental, MI
I salvage those from original messed up "projects" at swaps etc!! !!!
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Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 39
Likes: 6
From: Patten, Maine
Would the 79 take the 76 shaft and related kicker parts?
Last edited by Ron Pinette; Sep 20, 2025 at 07:14 AM.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 8,628
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From: Cental, MI
I seem to recall...Some! is the answer.. Always keeping in mind that the real difference, is the native right hand Shift vs 1977+ native left hand shift!!
Edit; I seem to recall that I have a 1974 Trans hanging on the door, under the bench...some place!! I will try to stab that into a early 1984 case, one day soon... A cursory examination indicates it should Not be a Problem!!
Edit; I seem to recall that I have a 1974 Trans hanging on the door, under the bench...some place!! I will try to stab that into a early 1984 case, one day soon... A cursory examination indicates it should Not be a Problem!!
Last edited by Racepres; Sep 21, 2025 at 09:33 AM.
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