Model Years Covered:
1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Product Name:
Harley Davidson Electra Glide 1959-1969 Repair Service PDF
Market Position Of Vehicle:
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide from this era was a flagship touring motorcycle, representing the pinnacle of American motorcycle engineering and luxury for its time. It catered to riders seeking comfort, power, and the iconic Harley-Davidson experience for long-distance travel.
Contemporary Competitors:
Competed against other large-displacement touring motorcycles, though few offered the same blend of V-twin character and utilitarian design. Primarily set itself apart with its robust construction and distinct Harley-Davidson identity.
Key Features:
Large displacement V-twin engine, comfortable riding position, large saddlebags for storage, robust frame construction, distinctive styling, often referred to as the 'King of the Highway'.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, carburetor service (e.g., Linkert), ignition systems (points, condenser, coils), lubrication systems.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, transmission disassembly and assembly, gear selection mechanisms, final drive (chain maintenance, adjustment).
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery and charging systems, ignition switch, starter motor, generator/alternator service.
Braking Systems:
Drum brake system inspection, adjustment, and repair (front and rear), brake pedal and linkage.
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork service (hydraulics, seals, springs), rear shock absorber maintenance and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment, wheel bearing service.
Fuel And Exhaust Systems:
Fuel tank removal and cleaning, fuel lines, exhaust system inspection and replacement.
Bodywork And Frame:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat mounting, fairing (if applicable) service.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake adjustments, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, carburetor tuning and rebuilding, electrical component replacement, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts for common engine, electrical, and mechanical problems.
Technical Depth:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for both routine maintenance and complex mechanical repairs, suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, OHV V-twin
Engine Displacement 1959-1965:
74 cubic inches (1208 cc) - Panhead (Evo predecessor) and early Shovelhead variations.
Engine Displacement 1966-1969:
74 cubic inches (1208 cc) - Shovelhead engine.
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 3.4375 in. x 4.00 in. (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm) for 74ci
Compression Ratio:
Varies by year and specific engine variant, typically around 7.0:1 to 8.0:1
Horsepower Rating:
Estimated 50-60 HP (at crankshaft, varies by model year and tuning).
Torque Rating:
Estimated 60-70 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, varies).
Carburetor Type:
Linkert (early models), Keihin butterfly carburetors introduced later in the Shovelhead era.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (recommended to check manual for specific octane ratings and potential lead substitute requirements if running original valve seats).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.5 - 62.5 inches (1537 - 1588 mm), varies slightly by year.
Length:
Approximately 90 - 95 inches (2286 - 2413 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 600 - 650 lbs (272 - 295 kg).
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 4 - 5 gallons (15.1 - 18.9 L).
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings exist for motorcycles of this era. Safety dependent on rider skill and maintenance.
Active Safety Features:
Drum brakes (front and rear), rider control through throttle, clutch, and brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Robust frame, inherent stability of large displacement motorcycle.
Infotainment Systems:
N/A. These motorcycles pre-date modern infotainment systems. Analog instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, ammeter) is standard.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A. Rider is responsible for all operational control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. No electronic connectivity features.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Primary Chain Case Oil Change:
Intervals vary, often tied to engine oil changes or as specified by Harley-Davidson.
Transmission Oil Change:
Check manual for specific interval, often 5,000-10,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Specification:
Viscosity typically SAE 50 or SAE 20W-50 for air-cooled V-twins of this era. Refer to manual for exact type (mineral-based recommended).
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Often the same as engine oil or a dedicated primary chain case oil.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dedicated transmission fluid, viscosity can range from SAE 50 to SAE 75W-90. Manual is crucial for correct specification.
Fork Oil Specification:
Specific weight of fork oil (e.g., SAE 10W) as per manual for front suspension.
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, oil seals, primary chain tensioner, clutch plates, and brake linings are common wear items.
Shoveldhead Engine Quirks:
Early Shovelheads could be prone to oil leaks and require careful thermal management. The 'Shovelhead' moniker comes from the distinctive shape of the rocker covers resembling a shovel.
Panhead Engine Quirks:
Panhead engines (pre-1966) are known for their complexity with oil lines and are sensitive to proper lubrication and heat management.
Electrical System Considerations:
Aging wiring harnesses, points ignition systems requiring periodic adjustment, and generator output may be limitations.
Harley Davidson Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, distinctive sound, and long-standing tradition of building heavyweight motorcycles.
Electra Glide Evolution Context:
The Electra Glide nameplate was introduced in 1965, evolving from the Hydra-Glide and Panhead era. It marked a significant step towards modern touring motorcycles, incorporating features like the electric starter (introduced in 1965 for FLH models) and the new 'Shovelhead' engine design starting in 1966.
Production Period:
1959-1969 covers the transition from the Panhead OHV engine to the Shovelhead OHV engine and the introduction of the Electra Glide model designation.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
