1980 Swingarm-big problem

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Oct 15, 2012 | 10:24 PM

ChooChooCharlie

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From: san jose Ca.

1980 Swingarm-big problem

My swingarm on my 1980 sportster was header than h@ll to remove and it also looks all twisted up, so i went to buy another one and they cant find anything remotely close..... does anyone know where i can find a new one? is there any way to check the swingarm dimensionally?

Oct 16, 2012 | 12:08 AM

IronMick

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From: London, ON Canada

The 79 to 81 swingarms, called rear forks by HD, come up often on eBay. They are popular for converting earlier Sportsters to rear disk brake so they can command a higher price. Here is one currently ...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Iron-Head-Sp...6b30db&vxp=mtr

You will not get a new one anywhere. Also check CraigsList.

I don't know of a formal way to check it dimensionally. Informally i would lay it out on a very flat surface, draw a straight and square center line, and take some measurements.

Oct 16, 2012 | 01:45 AM

ChooChooCharlie

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From: san jose Ca.

Thanks IronMick! I want to keep my swingarm/rear fork now that I know I can't buy a new one cause any other one could be messed up too

I just want to make sure mine is straight, where should I take measurements?

Oct 16, 2012 | 07:24 AM

IronMick

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Joined: Jun 2008

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From: London, ON Canada

Any used one you would buy from eBay would most likely be in good condition. eBay protects buyers; the sellers are at a disadvantage. I have made over 100 eBay purchases over almost 10 years with no problems.

I do not know. I would guess the straight parts should be parallel to each other and to a flat surface.

You may find more frame experts at XLForum, JockeyJournal, or other motorcycle/chopper/etc forums.