What flavor is my ironhead?

[The Bran Solo]

Found a Sportster in my pop's garage wrapped in mystery and dust. It's got a 900cc motor, right foot shift, dual exhaust on the left, and a solo seat setup. Frame looks like it don't bend easy, rigid rear. Does anybody know what year or model I'm looking at?

 

[parcheesi1989]

Not an expert but seems like you're looking at a Sportster from somewhere in the 1957 to 1971. can you find the VIN stamped on the frame or engine? you can find out from the VIN what the exact year is

 

[Kobe]

Which parts or markings have you found so far that might help narrow down the year, like engine numbers, tank badges, or VIN locations?

 

[The Bran Solo]

Appreciate the help from both of you which sent me down a deeper dive. It took some cleaning and a good flashlight, but I found the VIN on the right side of the engine case. After running the numbers, it appears I've got a 1968 XLH on my hands.
Now that I have a clue what this old dog is, do you have any advice on where to track down a wiring diagram for this specific year?

 

[Hanks178]

Cool, a 1968 XLH is a sweet find! Try looking for the factory service manual for that year online, like maybe on Sporsterpedia. That site has a bunch of schematics from different years. Also check with sites of parts catalogs and vintage motorcycle parts. Hope you can find the correct diagram and work on that soon!

 

[The Bran Solo]

I haven't been on the forum in a while, so I appreciate your info about where to find a wiring diagram. The Sportsterpedia tip is a big help for my project. The first few replies helped me figure out what bike I have, and now your advice is guiding me to the next step. I found a copy of the factory service manual online, thanks to your suggestion. For an older motorcycle like this, is it better in the long run to build a new wiring harness or try to repair the original one?