Life, and other absurdities

The Motor Is In
Using a nifty new 1-Ton chain hoist from Harbor Freight, hanging from the beam trolley, I was able to set the engine into place without any difficulty. In the process, I figured out the purpose for those nifty spacers that came with the frame. Thanks Jason!

Chopper Rolling Chassis
The rolling chassis is now complete. I’m really happy with the way this is starting to look. The frame is low to the ground, long and narrow. I can’t wait to get the engine in.

Fabricating An Engine Stand For A 1998 Sportster
Since I couldn’t leave the engine hanging from the beam trolley forever, it was clear that it was time for an engine stand. Being impatient, and needing additional welding practice, the only reasonable approach was to build (as opposed to buy.)

The Motor Is Out
Some research on the interwebs reveals that a Sportster motor weighs between 135 – 175 lbs. Since this seemed like more than the average guy could handle without assistance, it was necessary to do some additional research.

Sportster Teardown Continues
The teardown of that beautiful Sportster purchased just under a month ago is nearing completion. The windshield came off first, then the exhaust. A fair amount of time was spent carefully removing all the chrome accessories. In the end, the chopper will have few, if...

Lift Table Modifications
In order to avoid wreaking too much havoc on this old body, it was necessary to augment the garage shop with a few new accessories. The first of these is a spiffy motorcycle lift table, slightly modified.

And Then There Were Two
On a cold Saturday morning in the middle of May, I became the proud owner of a 1998 Harley Davidson Sportster 883 (XLH)