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1976 Sportster

Vehicle Identification

Frame VIN Numbers

Starting in 1970, the only numbers used for the purpose of identification are on the right neck and frame downtube.

  • The frame is stamped with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)identification.
  • There are still other stampings on the different parts of the frame combined with certain features that can be used to date the frame.
    But the only numbers used to identify the entire bike for ownership purposes is the VIN number stamped in the right side neck.
  • In addition to the neck VIN, an identification label is located on the frame giving the VIN and date of manufacture.
    This label was required by law for identification.1)
  • The serial number is the 3rd through the 7th digit. All serial numbers run consecutively regardless of model year. 2)

Click Here to view Ironhead Frame Identification in the Sportsterpedia for more information.
Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia.

VIN for 1976 Sportsters
Sportster
Model Code

(first 2 digits)
Serial Number
(next 5 digits)
Manufacturer
(second to last digit)
Model Year
(last digit)
3A = XLH
4A = XLCH
10,000 and upH = Harley Davidson6 = 1976
Example: (3A13675H6) indicates a 1976 XLH and is stamped on the right side engine case and on the frame
with the addition of a label on the steering head showing the VIN and date of manufacture. 3)
Example VIN Reads: 3A13675H6
3A 13675 H 6

Engine Serial Numbers

The engine serial numbers were still stamped in the case but longer used for identification purpose of ownership on 1970-up model Sportsters.

  • The engine VIN is stamped on the right side of the engine crankcase between the cylinders.

Specifications

Models

XLH 1000

What is the Current KBB Value? 4)

1976 XLH 1000 5)

XLCH 1000

What is the Current KBB Value? 6)


Back to Sportster History Index

1) , 2)
HD Service School service bulletin #596 dated September 16, 1969
3)
Shop Dope Service Bulletin #596 dated September 16, 1969
5)
photo courtesy of 4th of July of the XLFORUM
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