Historical Context:
The Electra Glide from the late 1950s and 1960s was a flagship model for Harley-Davidson, defining the 'classic' large touring motorcycle experience. It represented luxury, comfort, and long-distance capability.
Competitors Era:
Competed against other American manufacturers for touring and cruiser segments, though Harley-Davidson held a unique position in the market for its ruggedness and V-twin heritage.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on rider comfort, reliable V-twin performance, and iconic styling. Features like the 'batwing' fairing (introduced later in the period) contributed to its touring prowess.
Target Audience:
Touring riders, law enforcement, and those seeking a substantial, powerful motorcycle for long-distance travel.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for Harley-Davidson Electra Glide models from 1959 to 1969.
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, specifications, and unit overhauls.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 400-600 pages (typical for a full workshop manual of this era, exact count may vary).
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, potentially Scanned)
Engine Systems:
Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled), fuel system (carburetors, fuel lines), ignition system (magneto/battery ignition, spark plugs), exhaust system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly/assembly, final drive (chain drive), lubrication.
Chassis Suspension:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on sub-model) overhaul, rear suspension (swingarm, shock absorbers), wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Braking System:
Drum brake systems (front and rear), brake shoe replacement, linkage adjustment, hydraulic systems (if applicable to later models in range).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting (headlight, tail light, indicators), battery charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, ignition coil, switches, instrumentation.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, saddlebags, fairings (if equipped), handlebars, controls, trim pieces, mounting hardware.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular service checks, oil changes, filter replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake adjustments, carburetor cleaning and synchronization, ignition timing verification.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds (top-end and bottom-end), transmission overhauls, carburetor rebuilding, fork seal replacement, wheel bearing service, electrical component replacement, brake system repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance anomalies.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks, often with part numbers for Harley-Davidson tools of the era.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners and engine components to ensure correct assembly and prevent damage.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Charts:
Includes systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for identifying and resolving various mechanical and electrical issues.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement Early:
74 cubic inches (1200cc) - Panhead & early Shovelhead variants.
Displacement Later:
74 cubic inches (1200cc) for early Shovelheads, with potential for 80 cubic inches (1300cc) upgrades or later variants within the range.
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 50-60 HP (figures varied by year and specific engine tuning).
Torque Est:
Substantial low-end torque, ideal for cruising and carrying loads.
Carburetor Type:
Single Linkert M-series carburetor (e.g., M-88, M-97) or Keihin (on later models within the range, often as aftermarket or upgrades).
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (with lead content historically, modern unleaded with appropriate octane is used).
Cylinder Material:
Cast Iron cylinders with Aluminum heads (Panhead) or all cast iron (early Shovelhead).
Crankshaft Design:
Tapered shaft connecting rod journals, requiring specialized balancing and assembly.
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched (initially). Some later models might have incorporated foot-clutch/foot-shift options or earlier hand-shift variants.
Transmission Options:
Primarily a 4-speed manual. 3-speed transmissions were phased out earlier, but manual gearshift was standard for this period.
Clutch Type:
Dry multi-plate clutch (operated by hand lever).
Transmission Fluid:
Specialized transmission lubricant (e.g., Harley-Davidson 80W-90 or equivalent).
Final Drive:
Chain drive to rear wheel.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000 - 2,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended every 3,000 - 5,000 miles for ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and general inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity: 20W-50 (preferred for air-cooled V-twins). Type: High-quality motorcycle-specific mineral oil or blend. Consult manual for original specs and suitable modern equivalents (e.g., Harley-Davidson genuine oil).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Usually shares oil with the engine or has a separate sump. Specify type and capacity as per manual.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended transmission lubricant or equivalent 80W-90 GL-1 (non-EP).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 for hydraulic systems (if equipped), check manual for specific type.
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, piston rings, primary chain tensioner, generator/regulator issues, carburetor leaks, drum brake wear.
Electrical Quirks:
Older wiring can be brittle. Generator charging systems may require more frequent attention than alternators. Ignition points and condensers require periodic adjustment/replacement.
Engine Management:
Carburetors (Linkert) can be finicky and require precise adjustment. Ignition timing is critical for performance and longevity.
Parts Notes:
Many original parts are rare and expensive; however, a robust aftermarket exists for most common wear items and components.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson has a long-standing reputation for building large, powerful V-twin motorcycles known for their durability and iconic American styling.
Electra Glide Origins:
The Electra Glide name was introduced in 1965, evolving from the Hydra-Glide and Duo-Glide models. This period saw the transition from Panhead engines to the Shovelhead engine and the introduction of the 'batwing' fairing.
Production Period:
1959-1969 marks a significant era of development, including the introduction of the Shovelhead engine (1966) and major styling updates.
Engine Progression:
This range covers the last years of the OHV Panhead engine (up to 1965) and the introduction of the OHV Shovelhead engine (1966 onwards).
Historical Acclaim:
The Electra Glide is an iconic motorcycle recognized for its contribution to the touring motorcycle segment and its enduring cultural impact. Often celebrated in vintage motorcycle circles and collector communities.
Design Awards:
N/A (Formal design awards were less common for motorcycles in this era compared to modern automotive design accolades).
Manufacturing Certifications:
N/A (Focus on meeting internal Harley-Davidson engineering and quality standards).
