I am refreshing a '65 pan/shovel ( a pan head in it's original incarnation. The engine case serial number is correct for a 1965 flh). However, there is no corresponding number on the frame. There is a number stamped on the top left frame member below the cast neck piece. That cast piece has a casted number on it, but is obviously a part number. The stamped number is C4331. Any help in decoding this number will be appreciated.

 

I don't know what your number is, but it's not a S/N. Harley didn't stamp S/N's on frames until 69 or 70. PS, I love the old bikes, I have a '51.

 

 

ombill, no Panheads (48–65) originally had a frame number. What you found is sometimes called an additional original component identifying number, a security code or an anti-theft number. For Big Twin frames the extra ID began with 1962 models and the first letter used was A but A was also used for some 1963 models. Sometimes the letter was followed by three numbers and on other occasions there were four numbers as per your ID.

For 1965 Pan frames, C was used and so was D.
Similar, but usually not identical, ID was stamped outside the left fork stop on the lower triple tree and on the front of the trans case on the R-H side just below where the lid attaches.
A 65 Pan lower tree could have C or D.
A 65 Pan trans case could have B, C or D.

The extra ID may be on record at the factory so you could call H-D Customer Service on 414-343-4056 and ask them to check. You’ll also need to provide H-D with your engine serial number and belly numbers. If all numbers/ID are original to the bike you may receive a letter of confirmation from the factory.
Eric

 

Thank you for the information SBT, I'll check for additional numbers and follow up. It's nice to know that the motor and frame are the same year. I'll contact HD for confirmation