harleyKmodel

Hello,
I have just picked up a '55 KH basketcase. This in my first K model but have had several other Harley flatheads in the past. I am now in the research phase and have a few questions:
1) It appears that there is a lot of interchangeability between the K models and XL Sportsters. Has anyone ever put together a list of what those interchangeable parts are?
2) Is there a good transmission rebuild guide for my transmission, which came as parts in a 5-gallon bucket? I did get a parts list and am now taking inventory to see what I have.
3) Is the KH trans similar to the XL trans?
4) Can anyone I.D. the bolt-on hardtail that came with it? (Broke my heart when I realized it was not a KR part!

Hello, some things are continued from K to XL. The 1959 Spare Parts Book groups 52-56 K along with 57-59 parts right next to each other. This gives you an idea. The first Service book is 1959XL and is helpful. Trans set up procedure is basically the same. XL trans as unit will work in KH, with correct C/S Right Bearing in case. XL uses smaller ID Bearing than early K. Other info available in Shop Dope Bulletins. Enjoy, Erik

KH countershaft needle bearing is the same as Sportster

Look at your trap door... 6 x bolts/2 x conical dowels indicate set of KH OEM cases.

Later replacement cases usually will have Sportster trap door, 4 x bolts/2 x cylindrical dowels.

Count your blessings you haven't got a KR rear rigid end... If it were to be unmolested, it's too narrow to fit a street wheel with the drum brake...

Hence why there're quite a few AM types where you can fit the drum...

Yours a nice shape and quite short, a bonus...

Enjoy...

Patrick

Belated thanks to Erik and Patrick, I could not get the website to come up for a couple of days. The trapdoor and trans turned out to be 60's Sportster. Actually turned out there is about 1-2/3 transmissions in the bucket. Insofar as parts interchangeable list, I found a great book "What Fits What on Harley-Davidson Motorcycles. ISBN 0-933078-11-0. I has some great K model info.

You are most welcome. That is a fun little book, however One thing that doesnt fit what is K heads. Basically 3 different ones. K 52 53 Stamped in part number, KH KHK Weak Cast number, 54-55 and Strong Cast number. KH KHK. 55-56 approximately. Different cams & valves need matching clearances in chambers above open valves. Erik

W/r/t "What Fits What": read my comments.
http://victorylibrary.com/tech/WFW.htm

I knew you would have had a go, Jeff!!!

Patrick