single cylinder flathead? odd serial number Harley Flathead Discuss single cylinder flathead? odd serial number in the Classic Harley Motorcycles forums; Hi 'ya folks, I picked up an odd 45 flathead today. The rear cylinder has been blocked off. The engine case number starts with "MICH". There are traces of olive ...

[45saturn]

Hi 'ya folks,

I picked up an odd 45 flathead today. The rear cylinder has been blocked off. The engine case number starts with "MICH".

There are traces of olive green paint on the engine case... looks like the engine might have been olive green at one time.

I'm at a loss as how to identify this engine correctly.

I guess a picture would help, anyone interested in this looking?

Thanks

jim

[shovelmike]

Gee, 45saturn, that sounds like an unusual machine. If you haven't tried the Classic Harley and Indian Forum you might run it by them.http://www.caimag.com/forum/

[Buzz Kanter]

I am not aware of any Harley with a VIN with started with MICH. I am guessing it is a tattoo job or the guy stamped his name (or state) into the cases.

Harley 45 engines usually start with D (early Harley flathead with total loss oiling)or W (later Harley flathead with recirculating oil) or G (servicar)

[45saturn]

Hi again,

Whoops, its the front cylinder that is blocked off. Very weird.

The block off plate and the push rod tubes plates are home made.

The serial number has me wondering.

Anyway I'll post some pictures latter this evening.

[evoKENevo]

I don't know that this applies..and it's been a long time since I've applied for an assembled vehicle title here. But in MI the numbers assigned started with MICH before the numbers...like MICH12345...for you to stamp in yourself

[45saturn]

Here is a picture of the engine SN. Seems odd that Michigan would allow an engine to be stamped. BTY I picked up the engine in Michigan.

Anyway the dude said something about the engine was on a water pump.

[45saturn]

here are some other numbers i pulled off the engine.

base of cylinder 120-361 & 25-2

carburetor
L&L manufacturing
top of carb M51

oil sump thing
281-37

head 5

case MICH16911
112-392
F 3