The 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster is a classic American motorcycle known for its iconic design and powerful engine. If you are restoring or repairing a 1973 Sportster, it is essential to have a proper wiring diagram to ensure that the electrical system is correctly installed and functions as intended. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on the 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster wiring diagram, including key components, wiring diagrams, and frequently asked questions.
Key Components of the 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster Wiring Diagram
The 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster wiring diagram includes several key components that are essential for the motorcycle’s electrical system’s proper functioning. These components include the battery, starter motor, ignition coil, regulator/rectifier, and various switches.
The battery is responsible for providing power to the entire electrical system. The starter motor is used to start the engine, while the ignition coil is responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. The regulator/rectifier is responsible for regulating the electrical system’s voltage and outputting a DC voltage to charge the battery. Finally, various switches, including the ignition switch, handlebar switches, and lighting switches, control various functions of the motorcycle.
Wiring Diagrams for the 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster
The 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster wiring diagram consists of several diagrams that show the motorcycle’s electrical system’s various components and their connections. These diagrams include the main wiring diagram, the starter motor diagram, and the lighting diagram.
Main Wiring Diagram
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black with White Stripe | Ground |
| Orange | Auxiliary Power |
| Red | Battery Positive |
| White with Black Stripe | Starter Solenoid |
| White with Orange Stripe | Horn |
| Yellow | Headlamp High Beam |
| Yellow with Black Stripe | Tail Lamp Power |
The main wiring diagram shows the wiring connections for the battery, ignition switch, starter motor, regulator/rectifier, and various switches, including the handlebar switches and lighting switches.
Starter Motor Diagram
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black with White Stripe | Ground |
| White with Black Stripe | Solenoid Switch |
| White with Red Stripe | Starter Motor |
The starter motor diagram shows the wiring connections for the starter motor and solenoid switch.
Lighting Diagram
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Blue with White Stripe | High Beam Indicator |
| Brown | Ground |
| Green | Right Turn Signal |
| Green with Orange Stripe | Left Turn Signal |
| Purple | Oil Lamp Indicator |
The lighting diagram shows the wiring connections for the headlamp, tail lamp, turn signals, and various indicator lamps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wiring diagram?
A wiring diagram is a visual representation of the electrical system’s wiring connections and components. It is used to ensure that the electrical system is correctly installed and functions as intended.
Why is a wiring diagram important?
A wiring diagram is important because it ensures that the electrical system is correctly installed and functions as intended. Incorrect wiring can cause electrical shorts, fires, and other hazards.
Where can I find a wiring diagram for a 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster?
A wiring diagram for a 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster can be found in the motorcycle’s service manual or online on various motorcycle forums and websites.
What does the regulator/rectifier do?
The regulator/rectifier is responsible for regulating the electrical system’s voltage and outputting a DC voltage to charge the battery.
What do the switches do?
The switches control various functions of the motorcycle, including the ignition, lighting, turn signals, and other accessories.
That’s all you need to know about the 1973 Harley Davidson Sportster wiring diagram. By following this guide, you can ensure that your 1973 Sportster’s electrical system is correctly installed and functions as intended. For more information, consult the motorcycle’s service manual or consult with a professional motorcycle mechanic.
