Table of Contents
This is an old revision of the document!
1966 Sportster
Vehicle Identification
Frame Numbers
There was no frame identification for purpose of ownership on 1957-1969 model Sportsters.
However, there were stampings on the different parts of the frame combined with certain features that can be used to date the frame.
Click Here to view Ironhead Frame Identification in the Sportsterpedia.
Engine Serial Numbers
The only numbers for the purpose of identification were on the engine case.
- The engine serial number is stamped on the left side of the engine case between the two cylinders.
The first 5 or 6 digits represent the year and model 1)
From 1962-1969, models with 4 digit production (serial) numbers have an even-numbered first digit for even years and odd numbered first digit for odd years.
Click Here for more specific information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia (including the 1962-1969 Even/Odd Rule).
![]() |
||
---|---|---|
Engine Serial Number for 1966 Sportsters | ||
Model Year (first 2 digits) | Model (next few digits) (up to 4) | Sequential Serial# (remaining digits) |
66 | XLH XLCH | (example) 12345 |
Example: (66XLCH 12345) indicates a 1966 XLCH model and is stamped on the Left Engine Case Between the Cylinders 2) | ||
Example Serial Number on Engine Reads: 66XLCH12345 | ||
66 | XLCH | 12345 |
Specifications
Model Designations
- XLH, XLCH
Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 3)
- XLH, 56.5 in / 143.51 cm
- XLCH, 57 in / 144.78 cm
- Overall Length:
- XLH, 87 in / 220.98 cm
- XLCH, 83.25 in / 211.45 cm
- Overall Width:
- XLH, 34 in / 86.36 cm
- XLCH, 29.5 in / 74.93 cm
- Overall Height:
- XLH, 40-1/2 in / 103 cm
- XLCH, 42 in / 106.7 cm
- Road Clearance:
- XLH, 2-1/2 in to 4-5/8 in / 6.35 cm to 11.74 cm
- XLCH, 4-1/8 in to 6-1/2 in / 10.47 cm to 16.51 cm 4)
Engine
- Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2 5)
- Displacement: 53.9 ci / 883 cc (900 cc advertised)
- Compression Ratio: 9:1
- Bore: 3 in / 76.2 mm
- Stroke: 3.8125 in / 96.8 mm
- Horsepower: 55 @ 6,300rpm 6)
- Taxable Horsepower: 7.2
- Torque: 52 ft-lb @ 3800 RPM
- Weight:
- XLCH - 188lbs.
- XLH - 204 lbs.
- Engine serial number stamped on left side case between the two cylinders.
Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia. - 4 Cams
- Oil Pump: Gear driven type oil pump. Click Here for the IH Oil Pump section of the Sportsterpedia.
- Oil pump pressure (gauge mounted in place of oil pressure switch):
- Idle, with spark retarded (Min: 3-7 psi)
- Normal riding conditions: 10-14 psi (6 psi at 20 mph)
- Fuel System: Tillotson HD carburetor
Click Here to reference the main Ironhead carb page in the Sportsterpedia - Spark Plugs
- #4 for everyday use.
- #5 for hard service.
Capacities
Clutch
- Multi-Disc dry clutch-pack with alternate steel and fiber friction plates.9)
Drivetrain
- Constant Mesh - right side foot shift 10)
- Speeds - 4 Forward
- Number of Sprocket Teeth
- XLH:
- Engine: 34
- Clutch: 59
- Transmission: 21
- Rear Wheel: 51
- XLCH:
- Engine: 34
- Clutch: 59
- Transmission: 20
- Rear Wheel: 51
- Standard Gear Ratios (XLH)
- 1st: 10.63 to 1
- 2nd: 7.69 to 1
- 3rd: 5.82 to 1
- 4th: 4.21 to 1
- Standard Gear Ratios (XLCH)
- 1st: 11.16:1
- 2nd: 8.08:1
- 3rd: 6.11:1
- 4th: 4.42:1
Tires
Tires Size | XL, XLH | XLCH |
---|---|---|
Front | 3.50 X 18 | 3.25/3.50 X 19 |
Rear | 3.50 X 18 | 4.00 X 18 |
- Tire pressure
- Front: 14 psi / .96 bar
- Rear: 18 psi / 1.24 bar
Models
XLH 883
What is the Current KBB Value? 12)
XLCH 883
1)
HD Parts Catalog XLH/XLCH-1000 #(99451-78)
2)
1953-1963 HD Parts Catalog backside of front cover
4)
HD 1960, 1962 Sportster Service Manuals
7)
Harley-Davidson 1957 - 1969 Sportster Service Manual
8)
HD 1962 Sportster Service Manual
9)
1957-1969 HD FSM pg 4A-3
10)
1957-1969 HD FSM pg 1A-3