1964 CH Primary Cover

[billpedalino]

When I purchased my used '64 XLCH, the primary cover was chromed. The chrome was well-worn and it looked like 'Harley chrome' that came with the bike. However, the pictures I've seen seem to indicate that the 1964 primary cover was originally painted black. Can anyone (maybe any Sportster Judges out there) please provide the difinative answer?

Thanks,
Bill Pedalino

[jim d]

The original primary cover on my 64 XLCH is chrome and made from two different pieces. The derby cover was a separate stamped piece and then attached to the rest of the cover. The main cover is one piece but it is a smooth dome under the derby area The derby cover was then stamped out with the ribs in it and spot welded to the main cover. Later they were all one piece with the ribs pressed into the main piece. I think 64 was the last year for the two piece one, the parts books may give clues. I know someone with a original 64 XLCH and it is the same as mine. My 64 is very original with a spray can paint over the original. The motor is out right now but a otherwise stock bike. If you pm me with contact information I may be able to answer some of your other questions. My mouth is a lot faster than my typing. If I don't respond right away I may have lost power due to Sandy as I am right in the bullseye.
Thanks Jim D

[Robert Luland]

64 Cover. Bob L

[vph-d]

The chrome cover has a -64 part number, which implies it was used in 1964.
VPH-D

[billpedalino]

Thank You gentlemen. I guess my memory is correct. I like when that happens...

[billpedalino]

And yet, The Legend Begins shows a black primary cover on the 1964 CH. WHo knows - maybe it is a '63 photo that was re-touched. Just shows that you can't always trust factory photos!

[murph]

And yet, The Legend Begins shows a black primary cover on the 1964 CH. WHo knows - maybe it is a '63 photo that was re-touched. Just shows that you can't always trust factory photos!

I have been told the factory used the year prior pics with the current paint scheme.

[billpedalino]

You're probably right - they did that alot.

[jim d]

From the ENTHUSIAST Sept 1963 the new SPORTSTERS, there are new weight saving aluminum tappet guides,a new polyacrylic clutch seal,full width aluminum racing type hubs, the CH has a new chrome plated lower fork bracket panel and a CHROME PLATED PRIMARY CHAIN GUARD.
Jim D

[billpedalino]

Thank You gentlemen. I guess my memory is correct. I like when that happens...

As I stated above......