Table of Contents
This is an old revision of the document!
1978 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 1978 Sportsters | |||
Sportster Model Code (first 2 digits) | Serial Number (next 5 digits) | Manufacturer (second to last digit) | Model Year (last digit) |
1C = XR-750 2G = XLT 3A = XLH 4A = XLCH 4E = XLS 7F = XLCR | 10,000 and up | H = Harley Davidson | 8 - 1978 |
Example: (3A13675H8) indicates a 1978 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: 3A13675H8 | |||
3A | 13675 | H | 8 |
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
Engine
- Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2
- Displacement: 60.9 ci / 997.5 cc (1,000 cc advertised)
- Compression Ratio: 9:1
- Bore: 3.188 in / 81 mm
- Stroke: 3.8125 in / 96.8 mm
- Horsepower: 59.5 @ 6,400 RPM 4)
- Taxable Horsepower: 7.2
- Torque: 52 ft-lb @ 3800 RPM
- 4 Cams
- Oil pump pressure:
- Idle, with spark retarded (Min: 3-7 psi)
- Normal riding conditions: 10-14 psi (6 psi at 20 mph)
- Fuel System: Keihin “butterfly” carburetor. Click Here to reference the main Ironhead carb page in the Sportsterpedia
- Spark Plugs
- #4 for break.
- #5 for everyday use and hard service.
Models
XLCR 1000 Cafe Racer
What is the Current KBB Value? 5)
![]() |
1978 XLCR 1000 - Last year in production - click to enlarge. (Original California model with one state only mufflers.)6) |
XLH 1000
What is the Current KBB Value? 7)
XLH 1000 Anniversary
What is the Current KBB Value? 8)
XLCH 1000
3)
Shop Dope Service Bulletin #596 dated September 16, 1969
4)
Harley-Davidson 1970-1978 Service Manual
6)
Photo courtesy of Moon Wolf of the XLFORUM