Positioning:
The 1961 Electra Glide represented Harley-Davidson's entry into the 'big twin' touring motorcycle market, aimed at riders seeking comfort and long-distance capability. This manual is essential for owners and mechanics maintaining this iconic model.
Competitors:
Competed against British touring motorcycles and nascent American offerings, but established Harley-Davidson's dominance in the heavyweight cruiser segment.
Features:
First year for the Electra Glide designation, featuring the Panhead engine, electric starter (on FLH models), large saddlebags, and plush seating, defining the modern touring motorcycle template.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, and diagnostics
Transmission:
Disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and repair of the 4-speed gearbox
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (forks and rear shocks), steering, and wheels
Electrical System:
Ignition, lighting, charging system, wiring diagrams, and component testing
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel pump operation
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, adjustment, and component replacement
Bodywork:
Fairing, saddlebags, fenders, and trim component removal and installation
Number Of Pages:
Refer to product listing for exact page count; typically 200-400 pages for this era
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Printed Manual (likely softcover, spiral-bound, or staple-bound)
Powertrain:
Engine (Panhead V-twin), transmission, final drive
Suspension And Steering:
Telescopic front fork, swingarm rear suspension, steering head bearings
Brakes:
Drum brake systems (front and rear)
Electrical:
Generator, battery, ignition system (points and condenser), lighting, horn
Fuel And Exhaust:
Linkert carburetor, fuel tank, exhaust pipes, mufflers
Frame And Body:
Frame construction, seat, fenders, saddlebags, handlebars, controls
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, lubrication, tune-ups, valve adjustments, chain adjustment
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, carburetor rebuilding, fork seal replacement, brake shoe replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues
Adjustment:
Carburetor idle and mixture, clutch, brakes, throttle, ignition timing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Harley-Davidson specific tools required for repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, and service data.
Format:
Physical print copy. Quality of scan/print for reproductions may vary but original factory standard is assumed for OEM.
Quality:
Original factory printing standards, typically black and white line drawings and text.
Binding:
Likely staple-bound, saddle-stitched, or possibly wire-o/spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.
Paper:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments, though older manuals may be on thinner paper.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson OHV V-twin (Panhead)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1213cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 7.0:1
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 50/50 blend of SAE 30 and SAE 50 (or specialized vintage motorcycle oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter
Horsepower:
Estimated 55-60 HP at 5000 RPM
Torque:
Estimated 75-80 ft-lbs at 3500 RPM
Carburetor:
Linkert M74B or M74C
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5 US gallons (19 liters)
Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane, though higher is recommended for older engines)
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch
Clutch Type:
Dry, multi-plate
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant (or SAE 60W gear oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 US quart (0.95 liters)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length:
Approx. 93 inches (2362 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in early manuals, but designed for rider + passenger + luggage.
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags, capacity varies but substantial for touring.
Safety Standards:
No formal crash ratings for this era. Safety reliant on rider skill and mechanical condition.
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes front and rear. Requires firm lever pressure.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (depending on specific market configuration).
Frame Design:
Robust steel frame providing foundational stability.
Audio System:
Not applicable; this era of motorcycle predates integrated infotainment systems.
Assistance Features:
None. Rider aids were minimal by modern standards.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Electric Start:
Featured on FLH models, a significant technological advancement for the time, reducing reliance on kick-starting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles (1600-3200 km) or annually, depending on usage. Filter replacement often at same interval.
Tune Up Interval:
Every 2,500-5,000 miles (4000-8000 km), including spark plug check, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and valve clearance check.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust as needed, typically every few thousand miles. Manual provides specific procedure.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 50/50 blend of SAE 30 and SAE 50, or equivalent vintage motorcycle specific oil. Consult manual for exact specifications and additives.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or SAE 60W gear oil.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Usually shares oil with the engine for 4-speed transmissions prior to a certain year, but separate fill port and check procedure.
Brake Fluid:
Not applicable; drum brakes are dry systems.
Panhead Oil Leaks:
Common for Panhead engines to exhibit minor oil seepage due to seal technology of the era. Manual provides guidance on minimizing leaks.
Carburetor Tuning:
Linkert carburetors require precise adjustment for optimal performance and can be sensitive to altitude and temperature changes. Manual details the tuning process.
Generator Output:
Early generators can lose output over time. Manual covers testing and troubleshooting the charging system.
Suspension Wear:
Original suspension components (fork seals, bushings, rear shocks) may require rebuilding or replacement due to age and mileage.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long history of producing iconic V-twin motorcycles, known for their durability and American character.
Evolution From Previous:
Evolved from the Duo-Glide (FL) models, with the 'Electra' designation marking the inclusion of electric starting as a significant convenience feature. The Panhead engine itself had evolved from the Knucklehead.
Model Name Origin:
Electra Glide name was chosen to emphasize the ease of riding and touring comfort, particularly with the electric starter.
Production Period:
The Panhead engine was produced from 1948 to 1965. The Electra Glide model designation began in 1961.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Historical Significance:
Recognized as a landmark model that defined the Harley-Davidson touring experience for decades. Highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Performance Rating:
Praised for its power and torque, suitable for highway cruising and carrying a passenger and luggage, though handling characteristics are typical of vintage motorcycles.
Manual Accuracy:
Represents official factory documentation, providing the most accurate and comprehensive repair information available for the 1961 Electra Glide.
