1962 Head vs 1952 Head

[MikeL]

I found a 56 casting with a 62 date code rear head in great shape for a decent price, but I haven't seen it yet to verify or judge myself. I have a 52 front head that has the nipple converted from plumber to o ring. I was wondering how much difference I will see between the 52 front and 62 rear? I think the fins are thicker and larger (as per Palmer) is this going to look horrible? The bike is a rider, but it still has to look decent regardless of the price of the new head...Opinions

[caschnd1]

The differences are very evident to someone familiar with panheads. You mentioned some of the differences already. Also the 52 has 4 fins below the plug where the 62 will have 5. It will probably bother you more than anyone else since you'll always know they are different.

[Igosplut]

Three fins (early) Vers two on the top plug side, fins are larger, and extend more towards the front/rear on the late. They do look different. After my experience of looking for 57 FLH heads, I can tell you the early heads (50 casting) are pretty easy to find in usable shape. Just remember not to buy them if they've had steel seats installed, as they were never meant to be replaced. Head hog can overlay, or as I've found some do not even need seats.

[awander]

Having a '64 rear head on my '52 FL bothers me a lot less than having the bike off the road.....

The biggest hassle was the outside oiler on the rear head.

[58flh]

Andy---took the words out of my brain!----Dam you type fast! ----Richie