1973 Sportster

[freebird914]

I have a 1973 Sportster. When looking at gasket kits I noticed theres a difference bewteen early and late models. Can some provide a site or location where I can find a reference so I can order the correct parts. Thanks

[Chris Haynes]

A 1974 H-D parts book comes to mind as a good source.

[Rubone]

I believe that if your head bolts are hex shaped it is early and if they are 12 point (star) it is late. I know the head type was changed to move the bolts away from the bore, so the head gaskets are different.
Robbie

[Sargehere]

Ad that was in response to 1972, when the MoFo MoCo tried simply boring the 883 cylinders out to 1000, which went over like a lead balloon. So they changed to larger cylinders, wider bolt pattern, and 12-point headbolts to clue in anyone taking one apart.

[Rubone]

wider bolt pattern, and 12-point headbolts to clue in anyone taking one apart.

Actually, the heads of the bolts changed to be able to clear the rocker boxes and not have to remove them to install or remove the heads, (as well as to re-torque), not as a clue. You need a deep 12 point 7/16 socket to get at them.
Robbie

[bradwillert]

And the Head gaskets are not interchageable.

[Sargehere]

Since they happened to 12-point the headbolts at the same time the pattern was moved to accommodate the larger cylinder, it was always a clue to me that this was a later, not earlier 72-73 1000 on my bench, and required the later, bigger head gaskets. Depends, I guess, on whether you're reading for a strict cause-and-effect ("chicken or the egg?"). End's the same.

[kg993]

I am just now reading this thread (interesting since I have a 72) and started thinking about other changes. I think starting in 73 they cast the rt. case solid around the counter shaft and left the speedo cable dr. off. That is what I have allways thought, but now wonder if it was a mid year change.