Mike, once again you have hit it out of thr park. When I get down, and as a disabled veteran it's more than I'd like to admit, I watch your videos and they always cheer me up. Well done, sir!
I might add....it's a long cold snowy time up here in the northland... Spring is still a few months away.... spending time with you and Mike helps us get through the time of no bike time..... keep the videos coming to help preserve our sanity...... thank you
It sure was nice to see someone who knows what they're doing work on a 4 speed Sportster. So many have been adulterated by people who really "shouldn't be allowed to use hand tools"! It's absolutely fantastic that that bike has been owned by the same person since 1974!
When I got my 76 in crates, some of the parts were for an FLH and various other models. I think the dreaded " previous owner " threw whatever parts he had handy at it to see what stuck. Geez!
My 75 Sportster was always fun to ride, no other Harley Engine sounds like it. I still have it but she needs some loving. Folks began calling them Iron heads so as to differentiate from a Shovel head many moons back.
Love your channel! 74 was the last year for right side shift . 75 and 76 were the same trans and brake with some crazy linkage to swap the shifter and brake externally! Love the bike , I rebuilt my 74 a couple years ago. I have put about 5k miles on it . Keep up the great show!!
I had a 76 Sporster in 81 ,loved that bike, but don,t remember the brake being on the left ! I now have a 98 Softail ,different ride altoghter, my son has an 04 Sporster 1200, peppy little bugger. Thanks for the video see you next time. We are snowed in here in the Maritimes ,minus 12 C with NW wind.
76 had already been switched due to federal regulation. Try to stay warm. And yes that 1200 Sportster is a hot rod right out of the box. A set of pipes, an air filter and some proper jetting on the carb and it flies.
"Ironhead" afaik is an internet name. We always just called them Sportsters when I was a kid. I have a 72 with a 73 crankcase and a spare 1970 runner (reputedly) engine. like Harley owners everywhere, I love it, though sometimes it doesn't deserve it lol.
A nice survivor bike! I enjoy ALL your videos, great to see an occasional Sportster video as well, since I have one. Looking forward to part two. Thanks for the knowledge!
I love those older sportster s....I owned a 2006 1200 sportster and man did that thing fly....for a 1200 it made good power. I wish I'd have kept that bike..
I tuned a 1200 Sportster a while back for a young lady Cameraman was going with. I believe it was a 2006. It was carbureted and had a nice air cleaner and exhaust. I spent some time with that carburetor. That was all she needed. Thing spent too much time with its front wheel in the air.
Mike, I always have said, any “real Sportster” shifts on the right and only needs 4 gears. I used to ride a lot of both, left shift, right shift and even reversed shift pattern. Oddly enough I seldom screwed up I guess due to not only riding one consistently.
Whoever owned the '73 Sportster I bought (in 1979) had installed studs and acorn nuts to hold the primary case on. It looked good but each and every one of the bosses in the engine-side of the primary was visibly cracked. Every time I pulled in the clutch I was expecting the primary cover to pop off. It was good for about a quart of 20W every week or so. Amazing I was able to ride that Babe for 6 years.
Mike thank you for all your video’s I just watched you assemble your clutch on your pan. It was a great help I just assembled mine on my shovel and couldn’t remember the spring tension adj . Replaced everything trans, clutch etc. your stuff is right on point!! Ride free 🇺🇸.
Glad to see that you'll be working on an old ironhead. I've developed a real appreciation for those models in recent years and look fwd to watching your upcoming vids. Thanks again, Mike.
Mike it was 1975 when they did that law. The 75-76 Sportsters were transitional years. My E73 was all 72 components. Had the braces also installed to brace the frame. Before I was forced to sell my Sportster I rebuilt the primary and clutch.
Love , your clarification on the non exclusive terminology on the " Ironheads " Mike . All the old school rides in the day ran stock Iron configurations lol. The Sporty being a one owner ride after all these yrs is really sweet brother !
Great vid, Mike. Point of information, they got the nickname because of the shape of the rocker covers, they look like an old-fashioned clothes iron from the right side. :)
I love the old sportsters. I think most of the bad rap they get is from people working on them that shouldn't have lol. I had one in the 90s that I rode everywhere on. Loved that bike. Would love to find a kick star sportster chopper
Hi Mike, Good to see you wrenching on a sportster. A real nice looking bike. That takes me back. I had to make a clutch compressor for my old bike. Safe travels. Alan, Scotland.
@@pacificmike9501 -- The orange Knucklehead-powered chopper that Max Schaaf rode to the last Born Free event is a knock-out! It's my idea of a NorCal-styled chop! Ride safe, Mike!
Mike, I'm really looking forward to seeing you work on the sportster. I just got a running roller '73 and several milk crates of parts. Love your presentation style
I had a nineteen seventy-four years ago. Oh I understand about bad-mouthing at company or.. but I remember if something was done like that to me, and that's why I learned to do my own, And help others if I can work..
I'd say that's something we share. It is a wonderful thing when you get a bunch of bikes running well, go for a ride with them and see all of them having fun. It doesn't get any better.
Dam that brought back memories the first bike I owned was a 1970 xlch 883 sportster. Had a wet primary and ran a dry clutch. So you had a domed cover on it to keep the oil off the clutches. It also had a distributor that fed into the top of cam chest cover. This really brought back some fond memories can not wait for the follow up video on it.
Thanks Mike for another great video. The first Harley that I rode was back in 1969 and it was a Sportster. My buddy rode my Honda CL175 and I his Sporty. I had the Harley bug since then. I wish that you could put out a vid every day.
I ordered david man memorial patch, and a chopper bike patch, both 3 inch, bike little bigger. Got both sewn on vest. Had to get them, since I ride long chopper. Very nice patch , with the paint brush threw center, I'm sure you've seen it. Great video again
Hello from Sweden. Interesting project with this Sportster👍👍👍. Can't wait to see the rest. And by the way...thank u for the other videos at Sick Cycle and that other show. Kjell Blomstrand 🇸🇪.
Right-side gearshift, takes me back to my childhood... I seem to remember some of the British bikes were the same back then. (Not that my memory can necessarily be relied upon!) 😅 Great work Mike and Mike, looking forward to the coming videos. Cheers from Oz 👍🇦🇺👍
Hi Mike! Wheather is crap here in Spain, so I wait a bit longer before I do my start up on my Knuckle Chopper, I done all the ignition installed, wheels are back, with new rear sprockets and an industrial o-ring chain, so now its only to fill her up with new fresh Gasoline, prime the engine and hopefully it will start. Looking forward to see the Sportster clutch work. Take care all of you.
Sounds like you're getting ready. If you're running a primary cover, I hope there's room for that fat chain. I actually had a buddy of mine "clearance" my inner primary on my Panhead for more room , so I could run a fat o-ring chain. The neat thing about weather is that it does change.
Sounds like you're getting ready. If you're running a primary cover, I hope there's room for that fat chain. I actually had a buddy of mine "clearance" my inner primary on my Panhead for more room , so I could run a fat o-ring chain. The neat thing about weather is that it does change.
@@pacificmike9501 No worries Mike, I have an open 3inch Phase 3 belt, but still its tight around the Oiltank and chain guard, This industrial chain(o-ring) is 2 mm wider then my previous chain, so the first ride will tell, if its works or not.
Just wanted to give you a update, rebuilt the original carb for my 82 shovel, took the s&s off put it back on that ol shovel runs like new, no spark knocking when warmed up has enough power to pull the front wheel off the pavement in second with absolute ease. So if ya know anyone who want a new s&s e model carb I have a new one I am willing to parts with.
Fed "left shift, right brake" took effect mid 75 model year, so you'll find 75 sporties with both right and left shift (pre 75 all right, post all left). Gotta have driven the old parts counterman nuts, lol Edit: as to "ironhead", while your logic is indisputable, the nomenclature is "ironhead sportster" and "evo model". All evos use aluminum top ends, pre-evo are all iron in sporties. So, it is a fair descriptor to differentiate the subsets into "fat family" varieties, though each has even more strata to confound and confuse parts interchange novices, lol
74 first year of the 1000cc 61c.u My bud had one with the two tone sport seat. Ran like a charm!! I had a 65 XLCH with a magneto on it. Was perfect for space launch when ya kicked it if not set right. Looking forward to see the work your doing on it. Thanks Mike
On the inspection plugs, a big ' woodruff key' works good . Flat on one side, curved on the other. Just clamp it in some vise grips. Cost like 15 cents at the hardware store
Yes got me searching and found out that 75 and 76 were converted to left hand shifting with linkage lever system, and 77 was first with new cases and "real" left shift, which is what I have. Also clarified in my mind that there were some XLCH with electric start and not only the XLH as that caught my eye.
@Alain Picard I actually like my 74 right side shift ...I have an 01 electriglide classic ..almost too nice for me..I've been working on iron head and have it hardboiled with bolt on only because numbers all match and didn't want to really chop it to shit..but a springer with solo sprung seat still building it 4 urs in lol but finally coming together..any ideas for best simple carb I have a regular one now..but really don't want to pay 600 to a 1000 for s&s but might have to bite the bullet
Metric bolts, well, if the thread in the head for your exhaust is warn out is still has enough meat to make M8 in it, works perfect that M8 is just a bit larger in diameter :-)
There are things that work, but when nuts and bolts are put where they don't belong, it gets pretty hairy for the next guy. They make beautiful inserts to cure the problems in cylinder head exhaust ports.
@@pacificmike9501 Most of those great things are hard to get over here in Europe, im not worried about the next guy, have been riding this shovelhead for over 30 years and do all the work myself ;-)
I built myself a 58 Sportster back in 1969. It started as a $200 basket case. After that, it's been nothing but Big Twins. Correction: I also had a couple of Indians (74 and 80 inch).
Hi Mike, nice looking bike , how much would a bike similar to this one sell for ? Also , how would one repair those cracks on the engine side case that holds the clutch? Thanks !
Good video, Mike. Thanks. I've got a '69 XLCH and I'm trying a dry clutch set up. It would be an interesting video (to me) for you to talk about the dry clutch in the oil bath. I'm kind of interested in sealing the tranny trap door and running a dry primary drive to run a belt drive. Or . . . how would a belt live in an oil bath? I'm not really going to do that. I have my '69 'CH for remembering my youth. I'm 71. Thank you for your video's. I live near Ocean City, Maryland and I dream about California. A friend of mine lives in Sonoma.
I've never put a belt primary on a Sportster. I think I would check with the different manufacturers on this one. Call BDL (I'm sure their contact information is online). For Primo products, call Ben Kudon at American Prime Manufacturing (562)-889-8665. That 69 XLCH was every kids dream machine. That year and model was gorgeous and breathed fire.
Great to see you Mike. I think I noticed an electric starter motor as well as a kick starter. Were these originally kick starters and the electric motor added or did they come with both the kick starter and electric starter. Beautiful bike, not bragging but I have a 1972 Triumph GT6 sportscar which I bought new. Well I guess I am bragging, I will just say it takes a lot of work and dedication to keep something that long. Looking forward to seeing the clutch work!
I believe the owner told me this one was originally a kick only bike and she had the electric added later. That Triumph GT6 is certainly cool. But, about those 6 U-joints....
@@pacificmike9501 Ah yes, those u-joints. I did eliminate some of those. I converted the half shafts to modern CV joints, just about zero maintenance and they are very smooth!
You should start a school. Have you ever considered that? Long ago I went to some motorcycle schools but most of the older guys taught mostly vintage universal japanese motorcycle stuff. Very little knew Harley stuff and I had mostly Harleys. Luckily one of the Honda guys knew Harleys and taught me alot but it seems to be few and far between.
72 is first year 1000 cc last year built in the USA other than speedo and tac made in Italy 73 after japan made front forks gauges and disc front brakes
They weren't called ironheads back when they were still being made. That happened after the EVO came out, with aluminum heads. Then people started calling the older models ironheads to differentiate them from the EVO. As far as I know, the term "ironhead" has only been used for the pre EVO Sportster.
it was in '74 that the laws changed... basically model year '75 that you could get in August '74 that had the shifter moved to the left. As for getting a metric shop to repair an HD, surely there's no way even a moronic mechanic would put metric on an SAE bike... like going out your way to put metric instead of Whitworth on an old Brit bike.
Hi Mike, Can I ask a question about Chopper Fest? My wife and I are going for the first time on our Road king with a side car. I have a few health issues and can not walk far and need to sit frequently. Can you tell me about parking and distance you have to walk? Also, is there places to sit or should I bring a chair? Also, will you be at a booth while at the show and are you bringing T shirts we can purchase? .
Wow! Thank you for all of that. I'll be visiting the booths. It's a well organized show. There is plenty of parking. How close you can get, I don't know, but there are people there who will most likely point you in the right direction to accomodate you as necessary. I'm not doing shirts at the show. They are still mail order. Bringing a chair might be a good idea. There are tables and benches, but, they aren't everywhere. A bike with a sidecar will get attention. I would tell an attendant "I need to park in close." Everyone should understand that. I look forward to seeing you.
Thank you, Mike. I 'm so impressed that you responded. Your information is helpful. This is my first show, but I have been riding most of my life. I'm an extruck mechanic, and I love to watch the meticulous way you approach work. I like to think that I worked that way. I will look for you at the show but don't have any desire to be just another person caught up in your celebrity staus, so to speak and keep you from enjoying your time. If I see you, I will say hello. Be careful on the ride. God bless.
I have owned 3 of these older sportys. Decent bikes for around the house just because of the lack of parts and knowledge. My local HD dealer doesn't know how to get parts and will not service one. That's the only thing I don't like about them
@@pacificmike9501 ever thought about something like funding the flathead or something like that? i could imagine that there were a lot of guys who would like to sponsor something. just because they would really give you the chance to drive around with her. just a thought
Absolutely disconnect battery, pull primary cover, loosen selonid, starter. Enguage manually selonid. Block up bendix enguage in ring gear retighten bendix starter.hold up primary cover when tighten. Put battery terminals on try it. If that dont work. I found a harley shop of your caliber in ohio. Last ditch effort
@@pacificmike9501 you can make one 2in x1/4 flat bar location of holes use clutch cover .use centre of adjustment hole to centre your bar find two holes that will line up all 3 points use the proper Thread bolts or threaded rod welded nut 1/2 to centre .look cadlogs manuals tools for HD’s .60 70 years ago people had to make their own tools this stuff was not around or you would have get from HD and cost money .tools do not have look pretty they just have to work right .
Good morning Gentlemen & greetings from a sunny Sherwood forest, it's one of those clear & cold winter days - without a cloud in the sky, that are perfect for carb tuning runs & general motorised silliness. Not sure I agree with right-foot rear brakes on bikes; under heavy braking, I always feel the lines of force through the rider's body are asymmetric & out of balance - right side tense, left side floppy . . . story of my life. Set up a new Ducati 851 for a race team once - I couldn't 'ride' the blasted thing properly - light weight, fat & sticky tyres, bags of power & a loony who kept locking the back wheel up - 'cos he forgot, again!'' Nah, left-foot braking please . . . a most worthy skill & such anathema to those in their motorised metal boxes, which are not bikes & never can be, so why copy their woefully unbalanced choreography? Ah, squirrels . . . furry treebillies juggling their nuts in complete abandon . . . man, this is ever England : )
Good morning. Glad you're enjoying some good weather. It is beautiful here. Hoping it stays that way for the show on Sunday. Shifters on one side or the other never really affected me much until I ran my first parts department. Riding either way with right or left foot, wasn't that big a deal. But the Indians with left handed throttle and right handed shifter. Now that one was difficult. With all the rain we've had this year, our squirrels have spent too much time indoors and their population has increased a bunch. They are fun to watch. They are about the only thing my dog can't catch. Enjoy the sunshine.
1701 Sunset. Orange, purple & gold pierce the streaking zinc of fresh cloud now riding a ten knot Westerly, no Jack Frost to knight. Enjoy your show : )
i am a professional transmission rebuilder, one thing that i hate is for people to call a transmission a "tranny" that reminds me of bruce jenner with #12 feet, a giant adams apple, and big hands, in a dress,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
It's funny, but terminology really does get to us. I worked an order desk many years ago for a major speed equipment company. I dealt with people from all over the world. It's amazing how many odd words develop. Sometimes I get ready to scream. Then I realize, I'm the only one even irritated by it.
O W T F , it’s been called a Tranny way back since I can remember from the 70’s, pretty much like the rainbow was stolen/ hijacked from the movie Wizard of Oz to promote another righteous agenda.
Surprising that no mention of 1974 was H D's 2nd year being an AMF'. Or adios mf'er as they were called . My '73 AMF XLH ( electric only ) I bought new was possibly factory sabotaged . Primary cover was missing the starter drive bushing . There were a few old timer factory workers not too thrilled with the new owners .
I do believe AMF purchased HD at the end of 1969. Don't quote me. I could very well be wrong. But, let's look at it realisticly. AMF bought out a failing motorcycle company with old worn out tooling. They made a go of it and invested much money into improvements. At the same time, everyone in every industry suffered from failing electronics. Remember having a spare GM ignition module you carried in your glove compartment in the seventies? AMF tried and they brought us awful things like electronic ignition, alternators and disc brakes. Hadn't been for AMF, there might not be a Harley Davidson. It's all history now, I bought my 77 AMF brand new in 1978. That's a love affair that's lasted 44 years and still counting. Of course I've been all through it several times. But, I've never had a motorcycle that I didn't need to do that to. You just love 'em, ride 'em, put 'em back together, and ride 'em some more.
@@pacificmike9501 Good points . AMF did try . And did keep the company going until Willie G. and a dozen other investors were able to purchase the company back in 81 . So yeah it could have very well been the end for H D in 1969 . And do I ever remember keeping spare GM ignition modules back in the 70's . Fords ( regardless of plug color ) were just as bad . Mopar's and their ballast resistors . Yeah as a pro GM wrench from 68 - 2013 I've been around the block a time or two . Spent my winters ( NW Ind. ) doing preventative maintenance teardowns on all my Harley's . I had to know exactly what I had underneath me . Got sick of hearing those bitching about how Harleys always broke . By the very clowns that never pulled maintenance . Ah the 4 R's of motorcycles . Ride em , rip em down , repair em , and ride em some more .
Mike, once again you have hit it out of thr park. When I get down, and as a disabled veteran it's more than I'd like to admit, I watch your videos and they always cheer me up. Well done, sir!
Thank You. And, thank you for your service. Glad you like this stuff.
I might add....it's a long cold snowy time up here in the northland... Spring is still a few months away.... spending time with you and Mike helps us get through the time of no bike time..... keep the videos coming to help preserve our sanity...... thank you
Thank You. I wish you warmth.
What part of "northland" you singing from, Brother?
@@douglas9607 Duluth MN
@@douglas9607 Duluth MN
👍🙂
It sure was nice to see someone who knows what they're doing work on a 4 speed Sportster. So many have been adulterated by people who really "shouldn't be allowed to use hand tools"! It's absolutely fantastic that that bike has been owned by the same person since 1974!
Yes, and she loves it.
When I got my 76 in crates, some of the parts were for an FLH and various other models. I think the dreaded " previous owner " threw whatever parts he had handy at it to see what stuck. Geez!
👍🙂
My 75 Sportster was always fun to ride, no other Harley Engine sounds like it. I still have it but she needs some loving. Folks began calling them Iron heads so as to differentiate from a Shovel head many moons back.
Okay.
I have good memories of my 67 sportster. My 1st HD!
I understand. I built a 58 Sportster from a basket case back in 1969.
Love your channel! 74 was the last year for right side shift . 75 and 76 were the same trans and brake with some crazy linkage to swap the shifter and brake externally! Love the bike , I rebuilt my 74 a couple years ago. I have put about 5k miles on it . Keep up the great show!!
Thank You. Yes, that was a crazy setup. Look at it in the parts book. I remember going over it alot, a long time ago.
👍🙂
I had a 76 Sporster in 81 ,loved that bike, but don,t remember the brake being on the left ! I now have a 98 Softail ,different ride altoghter, my son has an 04 Sporster 1200, peppy little bugger. Thanks for the video see you next time. We are snowed in here in the Maritimes ,minus 12 C with NW wind.
76 had already been switched due to federal regulation. Try to stay warm. And yes that 1200 Sportster is a hot rod right out of the box. A set of pipes, an air filter and some proper jetting on the carb and it flies.
Great video and great information history. Lots of respect for the old iron. Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it
"Ironhead" afaik is an internet name. We always just called them Sportsters when I was a kid. I have a 72 with a 73 crankcase and a spare 1970 runner (reputedly) engine. like Harley owners everywhere, I love it, though sometimes it doesn't deserve it lol.
Well said. I get it.
A nice survivor bike! I enjoy ALL your videos, great to see an occasional Sportster video as well, since I have one. Looking forward to part two. Thanks for the knowledge!
👍🙂
Just waiting for some okays from the owner.
I love those older sportster s....I owned a 2006 1200 sportster and man did that thing fly....for a 1200 it made good power. I wish I'd have kept that bike..
I tuned a 1200 Sportster a while back for a young lady Cameraman was going with. I believe it was a 2006. It was carbureted and had a nice air cleaner and exhaust. I spent some time with that carburetor. That was all she needed. Thing spent too much time with its front wheel in the air.
@@pacificmike9501 ....very cool story Mike, thanks for responding back man!!!
Mike, I always have said, any “real Sportster” shifts on the right and only needs 4 gears. I used to ride a lot of both, left shift, right shift and even reversed shift pattern. Oddly enough I seldom screwed up I guess due to not only riding one consistently.
When you're on them a lot, you get used to changing back and forth.
Whoever owned the '73 Sportster I bought (in 1979) had installed studs and acorn nuts to hold the primary case on. It looked good but each and every one of the bosses in the engine-side of the primary was visibly cracked. Every time I pulled in the clutch I was expecting the primary cover to pop off. It was good for about a quart of 20W every week or so. Amazing I was able to ride that Babe for 6 years.
Yes, it was a real weak point on those bikes. And if someone put studs in too deep, well, you know.
I am really looking forward to this series of videos, thanks in advance for posting. I have a 71' and a 76'.
We'll see.
Thank you for sharing. Watched and as always very much enjoyed.👍
Glad you enjoyed it
👍😊
Mike thank you for all your video’s I just watched you assemble your clutch on your pan. It was a great help I just assembled mine on my shovel and couldn’t remember the spring tension adj . Replaced everything trans, clutch etc. your stuff is right on point!! Ride free 🇺🇸.
Thank You. Take care.
What a GORGEOUS scoot that is.
I'll pass that along.
Glad to see that you'll be working on an old ironhead. I've developed a real appreciation for those models in recent years and look fwd to watching your upcoming vids. Thanks again, Mike.
Thank You.
Mike it was 1975 when they did that law. The 75-76 Sportsters were transitional years. My E73 was all 72 components. Had the braces also installed to brace the frame. Before I was forced to sell my Sportster I rebuilt the primary and clutch.
Cool. Thank You.
Mike I know you're a good man helping an old friend get things right...
Hope I can. It's got some "issues."
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Love , your clarification on the non exclusive terminology on the " Ironheads " Mike . All the old school rides in the day ran stock Iron configurations lol. The Sporty being a one owner ride after all these yrs is really sweet brother !
Well said!
👍🙂
I have a 1974 XLH 15K original miles looking forward to this. I see hers is heavily modified, CV carb etc, have a blessed week my friends.
Thank You. The best to you and yours.
Nothing like a sportster. A great video. And thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it
Great vid, Mike. Point of information, they got the nickname because of the shape of the rocker covers, they look like an old-fashioned clothes iron from the right side. :)
I never heard that. We do forget they came out before Shovelheads. That's fun stuff.
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I love the old sportsters. I think most of the bad rap they get is from people working on them that shouldn't have lol. I had one in the 90s that I rode everywhere on. Loved that bike. Would love to find a kick star sportster chopper
They're out there.
Hi Mike, Good to see you wrenching on a sportster. A real nice looking bike. That takes me back. I had to make a clutch compressor for my old bike. Safe travels. Alan, Scotland.
Thank You.
Really looking forward to seeing the work on the Sporty..... good looking bike!!
It's in a little worse shape than I thought. We'll see.
👍🙂
I like orange motorcycles. Thanks, Mike.
Me too!
@@pacificmike9501 -- The orange Knucklehead-powered chopper that Max Schaaf rode to the last Born Free event is a knock-out! It's my idea of a NorCal-styled chop! Ride safe, Mike!
Mike, I'm really looking forward to seeing you work on the sportster. I just got a running roller '73 and several milk crates of parts. Love your presentation style
Thank You.
👍🙂
I had a nineteen seventy-four years ago.
Oh I understand about bad-mouthing at company or.. but I remember if something was done like that to me, and that's why I learned to do my own,
And help others if I can work..
I'd say that's something we share. It is a wonderful thing when you get a bunch of bikes running well, go for a ride with them and see all of them having fun. It doesn't get any better.
Dam that brought back memories the first bike I owned was a 1970 xlch 883 sportster. Had a wet primary and ran a dry clutch. So you had a domed cover on it to keep the oil off the clutches. It also had a distributor that fed into the top of cam chest cover. This really brought back some fond memories can not wait for the follow up video on it.
Cool. Thank You.
👍😊
Hey Mike ! Been having lots of good results watchin your videos , thank you & GBU !
Thank You. And thanks for watching.
Thanks Mike for another great video. The first Harley that I rode was back in 1969 and it was a Sportster. My buddy rode my Honda CL175 and I his Sporty. I had the Harley bug since then. I wish that you could put out a vid every day.
Thank You. I'll have another cup of coffee and give it a try.
👍😊
Nothing sounds like a straight piped ironhead being wrung out and shifted right.
They always lose it at the bottom with drag pipes. You're right, you gotta wind 'em up.
I ordered david man memorial patch, and a chopper bike patch, both 3 inch, bike little bigger. Got both sewn on vest. Had to get them, since I ride long chopper. Very nice patch , with the paint brush threw center, I'm sure you've seen it. Great video again
Good stuff
Dig the show been watching it awhile thanks for the good work .
Thanks for watching!
Great looking Sportster and my favorite color too! Mike a lot of mechanics should not have tools in their hands..✌🏻
Couldn't agree more!
Hello from Sweden. Interesting project with this Sportster👍👍👍. Can't wait to see the rest. And by the way...thank u for the other videos at Sick Cycle and that other show. Kjell Blomstrand 🇸🇪.
Thank You. Glad you're enjoying our stuff.
Right-side gearshift, takes me back to my childhood... I seem to remember some of the British bikes were the same back then. (Not that my memory can necessarily be relied upon!) 😅
Great work Mike and Mike, looking forward to the coming videos. Cheers from Oz 👍🇦🇺👍
Yes. Triumph, BSA, Norton, AJS, to name a few, right footed shifters. Our government finally stepped in and standardized it.
Hi Mike!
Wheather is crap here in Spain, so I wait a bit longer before I do my start up on my Knuckle Chopper, I done all the ignition installed, wheels are back, with new rear sprockets and an industrial o-ring chain, so now its only to fill her up with new fresh Gasoline, prime the engine and hopefully it will start.
Looking forward to see the Sportster clutch work.
Take care all of you.
Sounds like you're getting ready. If you're running a primary cover, I hope there's room for that fat chain. I actually had a buddy of mine "clearance" my inner primary on my Panhead for more room , so I could run a fat o-ring chain. The neat thing about weather is that it does change.
Sounds like you're getting ready. If you're running a primary cover, I hope there's room for that fat chain. I actually had a buddy of mine "clearance" my inner primary on my Panhead for more room , so I could run a fat o-ring chain. The neat thing about weather is that it does change.
@@pacificmike9501 No worries Mike, I have an open 3inch Phase 3 belt, but still its tight around the Oiltank and chain guard, This industrial chain(o-ring) is 2 mm wider then my previous chain, so the first ride will tell, if its works or not.
If you have any Phase III questions, you can usually direct them to BDL for good answers.
Just wanted to give you a update, rebuilt the original carb for my 82 shovel, took the s&s off put it back on that ol shovel runs like new, no spark knocking when warmed up has enough power to pull the front wheel off the pavement in second with absolute ease. So if ya know anyone who want a new s&s e model carb I have a new one I am willing to parts with.
And that's what swap meets are for. Glad you solved your problem.
Fed "left shift, right brake" took effect mid 75 model year, so you'll find 75 sporties with both right and left shift (pre 75 all right, post all left). Gotta have driven the old parts counterman nuts, lol
Edit: as to "ironhead", while your logic is indisputable, the nomenclature is "ironhead sportster" and "evo model". All evos use aluminum top ends, pre-evo are all iron in sporties. So, it is a fair descriptor to differentiate the subsets into "fat family" varieties, though each has even more strata to confound and confuse parts interchange novices, lol
Couldn't have said it better myself. I was that parts man and I remember the diagrams in the parts book to clear it all up. That was a long time ago.
Finally audio I can hear thansk
Thank You for listening. We do try to get things right.
👍😊
Good job Mike. Will be following this!
We'll see.
Wish I lived closer id bring my bike to you....Had it to three different shops and each one messes it up even more than the last one....
I understand. I am retired though.
74 first year of the 1000cc 61c.u My bud had one with the two tone sport seat. Ran like a charm!! I had a 65 XLCH with a magneto on it. Was perfect for space launch when ya kicked it if not set right. Looking forward to see the work your doing on it. Thanks Mike
1972 was first year for 1,000 cc or 61 cu.in. Harley went from 3.000" bore to 3.187" bore for the 61" motor. I've got one.
@@joehovanec1985 I stand corrected!
Thank You.
Mike, you're right... Some people should not be allowed to handle hand tools.
In the past, I had a few customers that were "forbidden" to pick up hand tools.
On the inspection plugs, a big ' woodruff key' works good . Flat on one side, curved on the other. Just clamp it in some vise grips. Cost like 15 cents at the hardware store
Cool, thanks
74 was last yr for right shift..she has a gem there..I have a 74 xlch kick only
Yes got me searching and found out that 75 and 76 were converted to left hand shifting with linkage lever system, and 77 was first with new cases and "real" left shift, which is what I have. Also clarified in my mind that there were some XLCH with electric start and not only the XLH as that caught my eye.
You will probably enjoy the HD parts book that shows all of those parts. I haven't looked for it yet, but, it's probably in Tedd Cycle V-Twin book.
@Alain Picard I actually like my 74 right side shift ...I have an 01 electriglide classic ..almost too nice for me..I've been working on iron head and have it hardboiled with bolt on only because numbers all match and didn't want to really chop it to shit..but a springer with solo sprung seat still building it 4 urs in lol but finally coming together..any ideas for best simple carb I have a regular one now..but really don't want to pay 600 to a 1000 for s&s but might have to bite the bullet
@@ahill7099 Feels like my forever projects :), as for carb, no idea, just using standard OEM Bendix on mine.
Nice job Mike
Thank You.
My 1st Harley was a 73 Sportster.
Cool.
Metric bolts, well, if the thread in the head for your exhaust is warn out is still has enough meat to make M8 in it, works perfect that M8 is just a bit larger in diameter :-)
There are things that work, but when nuts and bolts are put where they don't belong, it gets pretty hairy for the next guy. They make beautiful inserts to cure the problems in cylinder head exhaust ports.
@@pacificmike9501 Most of those great things are hard to get over here in Europe, im not worried about the next guy, have been riding this shovelhead for over 30 years and do all the work myself
;-)
Would love to see more on the CV carb on this bike .
👍🙂
We'll see if it needs anything.
@@pacificmike9501 would be nice to see the set up that would be needed even if it dosen't need work .
My First Harley was a 1976 Sportster AMF bike I put many miles on it
Sounds like fun to me. My first Harley I owned was a 58 Sportster.
Should run nice with the CV carb modification.
It needs a few more things. We'll get there.
But sometimes you have to. Maybe in a small group when you see a pig you got call it out ..👍 bad job is just that ...
Always good info here ....
Thank You.
Mike, I've often thought that you should have a 1957 to 1972 Sportster yourself.
I built myself a 58 Sportster back in 1969. It started as a $200 basket case. After that, it's been nothing but Big Twins. Correction: I also had a couple of Indians (74 and 80 inch).
Hi Mike, nice looking bike , how much would a bike similar to this one sell for ? Also , how would one repair those cracks on the engine side case that holds the clutch? Thanks !
I’ve always centred the back brake shoes by jamming the foot lever hard with the axle loose
Okay.
You da man Mike.
Thank You.
Good video, Mike. Thanks.
I've got a '69 XLCH and I'm trying a dry clutch set up. It would be an interesting video (to me) for you to talk about the dry clutch in the oil bath. I'm kind of interested in sealing the tranny trap door and running a dry primary drive to run a belt drive. Or . . . how would a belt live in an oil bath? I'm not really going to do that. I have my '69 'CH for remembering my youth. I'm 71.
Thank you for your video's. I live near Ocean City, Maryland and I dream about California. A friend of mine lives in Sonoma.
I've never put a belt primary on a Sportster. I think I would check with the different manufacturers on this one. Call BDL (I'm sure their contact information is online). For Primo products, call Ben Kudon at American Prime Manufacturing (562)-889-8665. That 69 XLCH was every kids dream machine. That year and model was gorgeous and breathed fire.
Great to see you Mike. I think I noticed an electric starter motor as well as a kick starter. Were these originally kick starters and the electric motor added or did they come with both the kick starter and electric starter. Beautiful bike, not bragging but I have a 1972 Triumph GT6 sportscar which I bought new. Well I guess I am bragging, I will just say it takes a lot of work and dedication to keep something that long. Looking forward to seeing the clutch work!
I believe the owner told me this one was originally a kick only bike and she had the electric added later. That Triumph GT6 is certainly cool. But, about those 6 U-joints....
@@pacificmike9501 Ah yes, those u-joints. I did eliminate some of those. I converted the half shafts to modern CV joints, just about zero maintenance and they are very smooth!
I'll bet that's a great improvement.
You should start a school. Have you ever considered that? Long ago I went to some motorcycle schools but most of the older guys taught mostly vintage universal japanese motorcycle stuff. Very little knew Harley stuff and I had mostly Harleys. Luckily one of the Honda guys knew Harleys and taught me alot but it seems to be few and far between.
It would be fun. Nice thought.
72 is first year 1000 cc last year built in the USA other than speedo and tac made in Italy 73 after japan made front forks gauges and disc front brakes
There's more to it than that. But, that's interesting.
They weren't called ironheads back when they were still being made. That happened after the EVO came out, with aluminum heads. Then people started calling the older models ironheads to differentiate them from the EVO. As far as I know, the term "ironhead" has only been used for the pre EVO Sportster.
Yes, but Knuckleheads have iron heads, V's and U's have iron heads. Although they are one piece with the cylinder, J models have iron heads.
it was in '74 that the laws changed... basically model year '75 that you could get in August '74 that had the shifter moved to the left. As for getting a metric shop to repair an HD, surely there's no way even a moronic mechanic would put metric on an SAE bike... like going out your way to put metric instead of Whitworth on an old Brit bike.
Thank You.
Been waiting Mike for this video. Sporster still not starting, new battery, andrelay switch. Sending bike to shop. I have no idea
What year is this sporster Mike??
1974.
Thank you mike, I got the big nut on crank shaft on mine Mike, may I ask what year that came on
I ain't sure 76,77, 79 ??
I don't know. It could have been changed from the original compensator.
Is that the little 17amp Hunt alternator I spied plugged in where the generator goes.....🤔
Yes. I was just looking at it myself.
Hi Mike, Can I ask a question about Chopper Fest? My wife and I are going for the first time on our Road king with a side car. I have a few health issues and can not walk far and need to sit frequently. Can you tell me about parking and distance you have to walk? Also, is there places to sit or should I bring a chair? Also, will you be at a booth while at the show and are you bringing T shirts we can purchase? .
Wow! Thank you for all of that. I'll be visiting the booths. It's a well organized show. There is plenty of parking. How close you can get, I don't know, but there are people there who will most likely point you in the right direction to accomodate you as necessary. I'm not doing shirts at the show. They are still mail order. Bringing a chair might be a good idea. There are tables and benches, but, they aren't everywhere. A bike with a sidecar will get attention. I would tell an attendant "I need to park in close." Everyone should understand that. I look forward to seeing you.
Thank you, Mike. I 'm so impressed that you responded. Your information is helpful. This is my first show, but I have been riding most of my life. I'm an extruck mechanic, and I love to watch the meticulous way you approach work. I like to think that I worked that way.
I will look for you at the show but don't have any desire to be just another person caught up in your celebrity staus, so to speak and keep you from enjoying your time.
If I see you, I will say hello. Be careful on the ride. God bless.
🤗🙂
I wish I would have kept mine 75 xlch
They are out there.
I have owned 3 of these older sportys. Decent bikes for around the house just because of the lack of parts and knowledge.
My local HD dealer doesn't know how to get parts and will not service one. That's the only thing I don't like about them
I understand. The HD dealer is supposed to want you to buy a new bike.
New HD dealers will not even work on EVO’s. You got to find a good independent shop.
When will we hear about the flathead project bike
Saving up. It will be soon, I hope.
Hi Mike, is there anything new about the project-bike? I can barely wait for it...
Only waiting for a "new" influx of funds. We'll get there soon.
@@pacificmike9501 ever thought about something like funding the flathead or something like that? i could imagine that there were a lot of guys who would like to sponsor something. just because they would really give you the chance to drive around with her. just a thought
🙏👍🙂
I was thinking the t-shirts might help.
Absolutely disconnect battery, pull primary cover, loosen selonid, starter. Enguage manually selonid. Block up bendix enguage in ring gear retighten bendix starter.hold up primary cover when tighten. Put battery terminals on try it. If that dont work. I found a harley shop of your caliber in ohio. Last ditch effort
Wow. It's hard to help you long distance.
All good Mike, new shop said they got full machine shop. They said it ll be fixed. No one has the answer mike
👍🏻🇨🇦
Thank You.
Where can I find one of those wonderful sportster tools?
Any of the major aftermarket parts suppliers will have it in their tool section. Try Tedd's or Drag Specialties.
@@pacificmike9501 you can make one 2in x1/4 flat bar location of holes use clutch cover .use centre of adjustment hole to centre your bar find two holes that will line up all 3 points use the proper Thread bolts or threaded rod welded nut 1/2 to centre .look cadlogs manuals tools for HD’s .60 70 years ago people had to make their own tools this stuff was not around or you would have get from HD and cost money .tools do not have look pretty they just have to work right .
Amen.
Ironhead Sportsters 1957-1985
What's the problem?
No problem. As long as it's an ironhead Sportster and not just referred to as an "Ironhead."
Good morning Gentlemen & greetings from a sunny Sherwood forest, it's one of those clear & cold winter days - without a cloud in the sky, that are perfect for carb tuning runs & general motorised silliness.
Not sure I agree with right-foot rear brakes on bikes; under heavy braking, I always feel the lines of force through the rider's body are asymmetric & out of balance - right side tense, left side floppy . . . story of my life.
Set up a new Ducati 851 for a race team once - I couldn't 'ride' the blasted thing properly - light weight, fat & sticky tyres, bags of power & a loony who kept locking the back wheel up - 'cos he forgot, again!''
Nah, left-foot braking please . . . a most worthy skill & such anathema to those in their motorised metal boxes, which are not bikes & never can be, so why copy their woefully unbalanced choreography?
Ah, squirrels . . . furry treebillies juggling their nuts in complete abandon . . . man, this is ever England : )
Good morning. Glad you're enjoying some good weather. It is beautiful here. Hoping it stays that way for the show on Sunday. Shifters on one side or the other never really affected me much until I ran my first parts department. Riding either way with right or left foot, wasn't that big a deal. But the Indians with left handed throttle and right handed shifter. Now that one was difficult. With all the rain we've had this year, our squirrels have spent too much time indoors and their population has increased a bunch. They are fun to watch. They are about the only thing my dog can't catch. Enjoy the sunshine.
1701 Sunset. Orange, purple & gold pierce the streaking zinc of fresh cloud now riding a ten knot Westerly, no Jack Frost to knight. Enjoy your show : )
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Awesome. Thank You.
It was 1975 they lost the kicker .
I don't remember all of those dates. Thank You.
Thanks for the ironhead mike,,keep us informed
Will do.
Algorithm
Now there's a word we Oldtimers don't often use.
i am a professional transmission rebuilder, one thing that i hate is for people to call a transmission a "tranny" that reminds me of bruce jenner with #12 feet, a giant adams apple, and big hands, in a dress,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
It's funny, but terminology really does get to us. I worked an order desk many years ago for a major speed equipment company. I dealt with people from all over the world. It's amazing how many odd words develop. Sometimes I get ready to scream. Then I realize, I'm the only one even irritated by it.
@@pacificmike9501 very true Mike, it is like people calling a vacuum modulator, a modulator valve, two different things,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
O W T F , it’s been called a Tranny way back since I can remember from the 70’s, pretty much like the rainbow was stolen/ hijacked from the movie Wizard of Oz to promote another righteous agenda.
Oh my God a sportster and it still alive oh well good to see your still at it but you mean a sportster OK Lemay
The woman that owns it, loves it. She bought it new.
Thank you
Thank You.
👍😊
I mean you too Mike and all you guy's much appreciated!!!!!!
Surprising that no mention of 1974 was H D's 2nd year being an AMF'. Or adios mf'er as they were called . My '73 AMF XLH ( electric only ) I bought new was possibly factory sabotaged . Primary cover was missing the starter drive bushing . There were a few old timer factory workers not too thrilled with the new owners .
I do believe AMF purchased HD at the end of 1969. Don't quote me. I could very well be wrong. But, let's look at it realisticly. AMF bought out a failing motorcycle company with old worn out tooling. They made a go of it and invested much money into improvements. At the same time, everyone in every industry suffered from failing electronics. Remember having a spare GM ignition module you carried in your glove compartment in the seventies? AMF tried and they brought us awful things like electronic ignition, alternators and disc brakes. Hadn't been for AMF, there might not be a Harley Davidson. It's all history now, I bought my 77 AMF brand new in 1978. That's a love affair that's lasted 44 years and still counting. Of course I've been all through it several times. But, I've never had a motorcycle that I didn't need to do that to. You just love 'em, ride 'em, put 'em back together, and ride 'em some more.
@@pacificmike9501 Good points . AMF did try . And did keep the company going until Willie G. and a dozen other investors were able to purchase the company back in 81 . So yeah it could have very well been the end for H D in 1969 . And do I ever remember keeping spare GM ignition modules back in the 70's . Fords ( regardless of plug color ) were just as bad . Mopar's and their ballast resistors . Yeah as a pro GM wrench from 68 - 2013 I've been around the block a time or two . Spent my winters ( NW Ind. ) doing preventative maintenance teardowns on all my Harley's . I had to know exactly what I had underneath me . Got sick of hearing those bitching about how Harleys always broke . By the very clowns that never pulled maintenance . Ah the 4 R's of motorcycles . Ride em , rip em down , repair em , and ride em some more .
Well said.