🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

WLA / WL / G

Product Name:

Harley Davidson Model 42 WLA WL & G Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and restorers of vintage Harley-Davidson WLA, WL, and G series motorcycles, providing detailed factory-level repair information.

Value Proposition:

Offers significant cost savings for DIY repairs and maintenance compared to professional shop rates. Unlocks ability to perform complex tasks with confidence.

Ease Of Use:

Features step-by-step instructions and illustrations to simplify complex repair procedures.

Accessibility:

Downloadable to multiple devices (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone) for convenient access in the workshop or on the go.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1940, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952

Model Variants Covered:

WLA (Military), WL (Civilian), G (Servicar/Tricycle)

Estimated Page Count:

Highly comprehensive, likely exceeding 500 pages based on typical workshop manuals of this era covering multiple model years and variants.

Type:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, tuning, carburetor service, lubrication systems, cooling systems (air-cooled).

Transmission:

Disassembly, assembly, repair, maintenance, clutch service, gearbox operation.

Electrical System:

Ignition system, lighting, battery maintenance, wiring diagrams, charging system, starter motor.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front fork service, rear suspension, wheel bearings, steering head maintenance, frame inspection.

Braking System:

Brake shoe adjustment, brake drum service, linkage maintenance.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank maintenance, fuel lines, fuel filters, carburetor rebuilding and adjustment (e.g., Linkert carburetors).

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender adjustments, saddlebag mounting (where applicable), control lever adjustments, general appearance items.

Clutch:

Assembly, disassembly, adjustment, replacement of clutch plates and springs.

Carburetor Details:

Detailed rebuild procedures for Linkert carburetors, including jetting, float level adjustment, and idle speed control.

Ignition System Details:

Magneto ignition system service, breaker point adjustment, condenser testing, spark plug specifications and gap settings.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Wheel bearing maintenance, spoke tensioning, tire pressure recommendations, rim strip inspection.

Frame And Fork Service:

Fork oil replacement and inspection, steering head bearing adjustment and lubrication, frame inspection for cracks or damage.

G Model Specifics:

Unique procedures and specifications for the Servicar (G model), including its differential and cargo box attachment.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication, cleaning, periodic inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common problems, step-by-step troubleshooting guides for performance issues.

Repair:

Detailed instructions for disassembly, component replacement, reassembly, and adjustment of all major systems.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and critical measurements.

Cylinder Head Service:

Removal, inspection, decarbonizing, valve seat grinding, valve guide replacement.

Piston And Connecting Rod Service:

Piston ring replacement, piston inspection, connecting rod bearing checks, and end play.

Crankshaft Service:

Main bearing inspection and replacement, crankshaft end play adjustment.

Generator And Regulator:

Generator testing, brush replacement, regulator adjustment (if applicable).

Paint And Finish Guidelines:

May include guidance on original finishes and paint codes, especially for WLA models.

Depth:

Comprehensive workshop level, suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts. Covers detailed component breakdown, rebuild procedures, and diagnostic techniques.

Diagnostic Charts:

Likely includes diagnostic charts for common performance issues, helping to pinpoint problems quickly.

Rebuild Instructions:

Provides comprehensive, part-by-part instructions for complete engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF or similar, requires Adobe Reader)

Quality:

High quality scans/reproductions, designed for clarity of text and images, printable.

Binding:

Not applicable for downloadable format; user can print and bind as desired.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for downloadable format.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, side-valve V-twin

Displacement:

Approximately 74 cubic inches (1213 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

Typically 3.3125 in x 3.5 in (84.14 mm x 88.9 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Varies, but typically around 5.5:1 to 6.0:1

Horsepower:

Estimated 20-25 HP at the crankshaft, depending on specific configuration and tuning.

Torque:

Not readily published in modern terms; emphasizes low-end grunt for military applications.

Carburetor:

Primarily Linkert M-series (e.g., M-51, M-74), with specific adjustments and jetting for WLA variants.

Fuel Type:

Gasoline (lead content would have been common during original production)

Valve Timing:

Detailed specifications for valve opening and closing points relative to piston position.

Oil Pump Specifications:

Information on the oil pump's operation and any necessary adjustments or checks.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

3-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted with hand clutch lever

Variants:

The G model (Servicar) had a different transmission, often incorporating a reverse gear, integrated into the unit construction.

Clutch:

Dry, multi-plate, operated by hand lever on the left handlebar.

Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear will be detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Length:

Approximately 89 inches (2260 mm)

Dry Weight:

Around 500-600 lbs (227-272 kg) for WLA/WL, heavier for G models.

Overall Engine Dimensions:

While specific external dimensions are less critical, the manual will provide internal component dimensions for tolerances.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not applicable for this era of motorcycle.

Brakes:

Drum brakes front and rear.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, and often blackout lighting for military use.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

No modern infotainment systems. Focus is on mechanical and electrical functionality.

Features:

No driver assistance technologies; basic mechanical controls.

Features:

No connectivity features; purely mechanical operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Frequent oil changes recommended, typically every 1000-2000 miles or seasonally, depending on usage and lubrication system (e.g., total loss or recirculating).

Tune Up:

Regular checks of ignition timing, spark plugs, and carburetor adjustments are crucial for optimal performance.

Engine Oil:

Specific weight oils recommended by Harley-Davidson for the era (e.g., SAE 50 or 60), often in a 'total loss' lubrication system or a recirculating system with a separate oil tank. Manual will detail exact type and capacity.

Transmission Oil:

Specific gear oil type required for the gearbox. Manual will list exact specification.

Carburetion:

Linkert carburetors can be finicky; require precise adjustment. Gumming and clogging are common if fuel is left in the system.

Electrical System:

Original wiring can degrade over time. Proper grounding and insulation are critical. Generator charging output needs regular verification.

Clutch And Transmission:

Wear in the clutch plates and engagement mechanisms, as well as potential wear in the transmission gears and bearings, require periodic inspection and adjustment.

Lubrication:

Ensuring proper oil flow, especially in older engines with total-loss systems, is paramount to prevent premature wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

Harley-Davidson has a long history of producing robust motorcycles, with the WLA becoming iconic for its role in World War II.

Development:

The WLA (from 'W' series, 'L' for civilian model, 'A' for Army) was a military adaptation of the civilian WL model, built in large numbers for Allied forces during WWII. The G model was the utilitarian Servicar, often used for light utility tasks and towing.

Production Period:

WL civilian models produced from the 1930s, with WLA production peaking during WWII. The G series also had a long production run.

Wartime Significance:

Tens of thousands of WLA models were produced for military contracts, serving in various theaters of operation.