Greetings to all! I have come across and purchased a HD 1985 Softail Custom (rolling Chassis)... am chopping to a bobber, but keeping softail (butt is tooo old). Any way, can anyone tell me whether I can put one of the newer HD motors, primary & tranny on this frame as is, or will I need to modify frame for that, or (Yep, female, lotsa ors) is there a plate available to upgrade for newer model HD engines, etc. The original engine for this bike was pulled at the factory as a warranty replacement and shipped to Europe, way back then, I have no idea what is has been runnin on since. There are some slight cuts to the frame and foot control plates on the frame.

That's probably enough for now....Thanks for your consideration!

 

There was no 85 softail custom, just an 85 softail that came with a 4-speed and an evo motor. You should not have any problems with putting something like a new S&S shovelhead in it.

 

You can get a brand new crate 99 EVO motor for around $3,000 from Harley. I bet it would fit without modification. Wouldn't say for sure though.

 

you could put any evo or alt. shovel motor in.. mabye pan,early shovel?..the twin cam is way differant,no seat post,and motor/trans bolt togeather,then go in frame as a unit.you could do it but it would be easier to build a frame from scratch..the factory wouldnt sell a rolling frame bike with no engine, they would just send a new engine,if they took a bike apart it would be have to be junked for vin# purposes..who told you that??