Model Production Numbers
Colors
The only numbers used for the purpose of identification are on the right neck and frame downtube.
In 1981, the full VIN was expanded to include country of origin, maker, bike weight, engine displacement, introduction date, a check digit and which factory made it 2).
Click Here to view the Evo Sportster frame page in the Sportsterpedia for more information.
Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia.
17 Digit VIN for 1987 Sportsters | |||||||||
Origin | Make | Weight Class | Model | Engine Size | Intro Date/ Special Models | VIN Check Digit | Model Year | Assembly Plant | Serial Number |
1 = Made in USA | HD = Harley Davidson | 1 = 1100cc 4 = 883cc | CA = XLH 883 XLH 883 Deluxe XLH 1100 CE = XLH 883 Hugger | M = 883cc N = 1100cc | 1 = Regular 4 = Special | Can be 0 - 9 or X | H = 1987 | Y = York, PA | 6 Digits (varies) |
Example: (1HD4CAM16HY112016) designates a 1987 XLH 883, stamped on the steering head with a sticker VIN on the steering head also. The abbreviated VIN appears on engine right case (CAMH 112016) |
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Example VIN on Frame Reads | |||||||||
1 | HD | 4 | CA | M | 1 | 6 | H | Y | 112016 |
Example Abbreviated VIN on Case Reads | |||||||||
CA | M | H | 112016 |
The serial number is stamped on the case, right side, between the cylinders but is not used for identification purpose of ownership.
Below are some suggestions for manuals for your ride.
You should have, at minimum, a Factory Service Manual (FSM) and a Factory Parts Catalog for your year model.
Note: Updated manuals sometimes correct mistakes from the original manuals and some are updated simply to add mid year intro models.
Factory Service Manuals (FSM);
The FSM will have the most accurate information, procedures and specs.
Clymer and Haynes make service manuals also for Sportsters but some of the information is in error to the factory FSMs.
And some of the information in the aftermarket manuals is vague in information or procedures but they may have more pictures.
So it is generally said you can get use from both an aftermarket manual and the factory service manuals but get the factory manual first.
Click Here to view the Factory Service Manual page in the Sportsterpedia.
Parts Catalogs;
The Parts Catalog has part numbers of course but it also has exploded parts views.
However, IT IS NOT INTENDED TO BE AN ASSEMBLY MANUAL.
And some of the exploded views are confusing or not related to each other on the same pages.
But, all in all, the exploded views do help finding what goes where.
Most of the fasteners listed in the relevant parts catalog individual pages have thread sizes and lengths also in case you need those.
Below is a simple list of original and “latest edition parts catalogs.
The in-between year books may show different part numbers for the same year model bike.
Click Here to see the Factory Parts Catalog page in the Sportsterpedia for parts catalog uses and a full list of parts catalog numbers from 1957 to present.
(complete list of other parts catalogs and supplement catalogs that pertain to each year model on the bottom of that page)
Some often acquire several year model parts catalogs and that page will help decide which ones are right for them.
Suggested Manuals:
Pics of Manual Covers.
Below are pics of used manual covers (original and latest editions) related to 1987 model Sportsters.
See the full list of pertinent catalogs in the links above.
Click on any pic below to enlarge:
Rim size and contour are cast or stamped into the exterior surface of the rim.
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