Ironhead Late 50s XL to 60s XL Front End Compatibility

[Jhbox13]

So I've got this 58 XLCH that is missing a front end. I've seen some front ends from some shovelheads and whanot (most commonly 45740-62A top bracket and 45707-72 bottoms) but I have my doubts that they will fit the bill. I'm trying to get it as close as possible but money and availability of parts are always a contributing factor.

So here are the actual questions:

1. Is there a resource that I can use to figure out what front ends will fit my 58 XLCH frame?

2. If the part # is the same but the year is different (i.e. 54738-54A, 54738-59, 54738-62) are the parts necessarily interchangeable?

I appreciate the help folks. I also love how different parts catalog list different info. For instance, the '63 catalog list the lower bracket of the triple tree as 45701-54 and the '66 and up list it as 45702-57/A.

EDIT: I found this breakdown on harleykmodel.com on triple tree compatibility, but further input is very appreciated: https://www.harleykmodel.com/technic...lacements.html

3. How much difference is there between the front ends from 55-58 and 59-62?

[rokytnji]

Haven't perused the whole thread. I'll leave it up to you.
http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1021250

[Model H]

Jh - in 1958, HD manufactured 238 XLCH's. They came with no lights, a short rear fender, and a XR straight pipes. These were used for desert type racing.

Not saying your isn't one of these, if it is you have something pretty special.

A google search will show what the 58 XLCH looked like.

You mentioned you wanted to get close as possible, if it was my bike I would want the same. I would ensure it is a real 58 XLCH first.

Can you post some pics of what you have including VIN and belly numbers (on the bottom of the cases)?

[Jhbox13]

Originally Posted by rokytnji

Haven't perused the whole thread. I'll leave it up to you.
http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1021250

Thanks man

Originally Posted by Model H

Jh - in 1958, HD manufactured 238 XLCH's. They came with no lights, a short rear fender, and a XR straight pipes. These were used for desert type racing.

Not saying your isn't one of these, if it is you have something pretty special.

A google search will show what the 58 XLCH looked like.

You mentioned you wanted to get close as possible, if it was my bike I would want the same. I would ensure it is a real 58 XLCH first.

Can you post some pics of what you have including VIN and belly numbers (on the bottom of the cases)?

This was actually my question in my first post when I joined. My engine serial and matching belly numbers are indicative of a 58 XLCH.

[Model H]

Didn't see your original post, only this one.

I did find your original post, however the links to the pic do not work.

You may want to consider one build thread on your bike.

In my experience, this is a way to get the folks in the know all the facts they need to help you out.

[brucstoudt]

right,your pictures are all gone.i remember it having a red hardtail frame which no sportster left the factory with.

[Jhbox13]

Originally Posted by brucstoudt

right,your pictures are all gone.i remember it having a red hardtail frame which no sportster left the factory with.

Someone welded on the hatdtail after cutting off the rear shock mounts and put a long aftermarket springer on it. Going to do my best to get new mounts and a swingarm.

[brucstoudt]

sounds like a good plan to me.