Click Here to reference Sportster VIN Information in the History section of the Sportsterpedia.

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A bend in the frame backbone on the right above the motor mount bolt is on most L1973-1976 Sportster frames and does appear to be factory induced.
It has been believed to be for easier access to the motor mount bolt but the threaded area around the right side petcock on the gas tank hangs down close to the bend in the frame.

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A service bulletin was issued for SAFETY DEFECT CODE 023, | Click Here to download TSB# 656

All El973 XL and XLCH frames:
Corrective modification was required to prevent possible breakage at the welded junction of the frame tubes and the rear fender and shock absorber support bracket.
Some cases of breakage reported was caused by heavy stress concentration in this location.

In conjunction with this recall program, a further improvement in tail lamp wiring was to be made to correct the short circuit problem originally communicated in TSB# 650.
The rear fender support attaching bolts were to be relocated to raise the fender rear end and provide more clearance between the tire and taillight wires.
(to prevent possible short circuit caused by the tire rubbing through wire insulation under abnormal rear end loading)

A Frame Brace and Fender Support Kit (47420-74) was issued to make these changes. Below are contents of the kit.

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