How can I tell if a 78 shovel is 74 or 82 cu in without tearing apart.

 

Just asking if it is Stock would work ...if the respondent was honest!
The '78 is 74" Stock.
Alot can happen in 37 years!!!!

 

Well if it's 78 1/2 it couled be an 82 cu in right ?

 

the part numbers on the jugs is the first place to start - the block number can also tell what it was from harley - a letter code

 

Right on man. After I get the numbers off of it do I call a dealership or look up numbers on internet?

 

http://www.harleys.de/engine.html

 

It may be technically an 82 but that just sounds weird its 80.

 

16485-74A Front Cylinder with Piston (1200cc) 74-80 - All models


16492-74A Rear Cylinder with Piston (1200cc) 74-80 - All models

16494-78 Front Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) 79-early 81 -FXS-80, FXEF-80, FXB, FXE-80, Late 82& Early 83 All Models.
16495-78 Rear Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) 79-early 81 -FXS-80, FXEF-80, FXB, FXE-80, Late 82& Early 83 All Models.

16496-78 Front Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) 80 FXWG
16497-78 Rear Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) 80 FXWG

16498-80A Front Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) Early 81 - Late 81 to Early 82 - FXS-80, FXEF-80, FXB, FXE-80; Late 83 to * All Models.
16499-90A Rear Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) Early 81 - Late 81 to Early 82 - FXS-80, FXEF-80, FXB, FXE-80; Late 83 to * All Models.

16508-81 Front Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) Late 81 to Late 82 - FXWG.
16497-78 Rear Cylinder with Piston (1340cc) Late 81 to Late 82 - FXWG.


You can check the VIN numbers here:
http://www.terry-zone.com/tech/vin.php

 

Alright well thanks guys. What about carb for an old shovel. Is s&s best or a harley carb

 

Yea...start that!!!!
I like the Bendix on a Stocker...but, I am running a CV on a "Geezer Glide" that suits me well too...S&S??? I use one on my dragbike!!!