Target Audience:
Professional Harley-Davidson Technicians and Restorers
Era Significance:
Represents a crucial period in Harley-Davidson's evolution, blending classic design with evolving V-twin technology.
Competitors 1960:
Indian Motorcycle (though declining), British twins (Triumph, BSA), European motorcycles
Design Philosophy:
Robust V-twin engine, comfortable touring ergonomics, iconic styling.
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining the longevity and historical accuracy of a 1960 Electra Glide.
Primary Focus:
Repair and Service
Included Sections:
Engine, Transmission, Chassis, Electrical System, Brakes, Suspension, Fuel System, Lubrication, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Estimated Pages:
100-150 (estimated for a comprehensive 1960s manual)
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, valve adjustment, lubrication system
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh, clutch operation, gear inspection, lubrication, servicing
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing adjustment, fork assembly, wheel bearings, suspension components
Electrical System:
Ignition system (generator, coil, points, condenser), lighting, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance
Brakes:
Drum brake adjustment and maintenance, brake shoe replacement
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel tank and petcock maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, spark plug servicing
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems
Repair:
Step-by-step guides for component replacement and repair
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain procedures
Level:
Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and experienced enthusiasts)
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine and electrical systems
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.000 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
7.0:1 (typical for the era)
Cylinder Heads:
Cast iron, overhead valves
Valve Train:
Pushrod operated
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-55 hp (at 5000 rpm, estimated)
Torque:
Approx. 65-70 ft-lbs (at 3000 rpm, estimated)
Carburetor Type:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M74 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (refer to manual for octane recommendations)
Oil System:
Total Loss Lubrication System (oil is mixed with fuel and also injected into the crankcase)
Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 50 or 60 motor oil (refer to manual for specific HD recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (for crankcase circulation, in addition to total loss)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Constant Mesh Manual
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios documented in manual
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate
Shift Mechanism:
Foot-operated, usually with heel-toe shifter
Transmission Fluid:
Motor oil (SAE 50 or 60, refer to manual for specifics)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Vehicles from this era were not subjected to standardized crash testing)
Braking System:
Drum brakes (front and rear)
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (often optional or added later)
Frame Construction:
Steel backbone frame designed for stability
Rider Protection:
Emphasis on rider skill and awareness, no modern rider aids.
Oil Change:
Every 1,000 - 1,500 miles (due to total loss system, frequent changes are necessary)
Tune Up:
Annually or every 3,000-5,000 miles (includes points, plugs, carb adjustment, etc.)
Valve Adjustment:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (critical for Panhead engine health)
Engine Oil:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 Motor Oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Oil or equivalent vintage-spec oil). Avoid modern multi-grade oils unless specified otherwise by a qualified restorer.
Transmission Oil:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 Motor Oil (same as engine oil).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant (specific formulation for wet clutches, or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
N/A (Drum brakes are mechanical, no hydraulic fluid)
Oil Leaks:
Common due to age and older seal technology; requires vigilant maintenance.
Carburetor Performance:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring and components can degrade, leading to electrical issues.
Valve Seat Wear:
Can occur, especially with leaded fuel; requires proper valve adjustments.
Founder:
William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, William A. Davidson
Electra Glide Introduction:
Introduced in 1965, but the 1960 model refers to the foundational Big Twin touring platform upon which the Electra Glide would be based.
1960 Model Significance:
Represents the continuation of Harley-Davidson's heavyweight touring motorcycle development, evolving from earlier Hydra-Glide and Duo-Glide models.
Engine Development:
The 'Panhead' engine, introduced in 1948, was the standard for this era, known for its distinctive rocker boxes.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
