Era:
Iconic touring motorcycle era
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, Restorers, Mechanics specializing in vintage motorcycles
Competitors:
Indian Chief, Triumph Bonneville, BSA Gold Star (though Electra Glide was in a distinct touring class)
Bike Identity:
The quintessential American touring motorcycle of its time, known for its comfort and capability for long-distance rides.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining, repairing, and restoring a classic Harley-Davidson Electra Glide.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Model Years Covered:
1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Panhead (for early models), Shovelhead (for later models), Engine Overhaul, Carburetor Tuning, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System (Air)
Transmission:
4-Speed Manual Transmission, Clutch Assembly, Gearbox Overhaul, Shifting Mechanism
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Battery and Charging System (Generator/Alternator), Ignition Coil, Points, Condenser, Starter Motor, Horn
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Front Fork (Springer/Telescopic), Rear Suspension (Swingarm), Wheel Bearings, Steering Head Bearings
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brake Systems (Drum Brakes), Brake Shoe Replacement, Brake Cable Adjustment
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Carburetor (e.g., Linkert, Keihin), Fuel Filters
Bodywork:
Fenders, Fairing (if applicable), Saddlebags, Seat, Handlebars, Control Cables
Maintenance:
Oil Change Intervals, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Chain Adjustment, Tire Pressure Checks, Battery Maintenance
Repair:
Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Disassembly and Reassembly, Carburetor Rebuilding, Electrical Component Replacement, Suspension Overhaul
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Common Starting Problems, Running Issues, Electrical Fault Finding
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Gap Settings, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Lubrication Points
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Air-Cooled, OHV V-Twin
Engine Families:
Panhead (e.g., FLH 74ci) and Shovelhead (e.g., FLH 74ci, FLHS 80ci)
Displacement Ci:
74 cubic inches (1200cc) for most models, with 80 cubic inches (1310cc) available in later years (FLHS)
Horsepower Est Peak:
Approx. 50-60 HP (varies by year and specific engine variant)
Torque Est Peak:
Approx. 70-80 lb-ft (varies by year and specific engine variant)
Carburetor Examples:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M74), Keihin butterfly (later years)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil, Magneto (some early models), Contact Points and Condenser
Type:
4-Speed Constant Mesh Manual
Transmission Options:
None (4-speed manual was standard)
Clutch Type:
Wet Multi-plate Clutch, Cable Operated
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Recommended Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., SAE 50W Gear Oil)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subject to the same formal safety rating systems as modern vehicles).
Brakes:
Drum Brakes (Front and Rear), Mechanical Parking Brake (rare)
Lighting:
Headlight, Taillight, Brake Light, Turn Signals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 1,500 - 2,500 miles or annually (check manual for specific mileage)
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 10,000 miles or annually
Primary Chain Case Oil Change:
Every 2,500 - 5,000 miles
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50 or 30W (Harley-Davidson recommends specific grades depending on climate)
Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 50 Gear Oil or Harley-Davidson Syn 3 (if compatible)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Pushrod tubes, exhaust gaskets, clutch plates, brake shoes, wheel bearings.
Engine Specific:
Panhead oil leaks, Shovelhead top-end noise, early ignition systems (points/condenser tuning).
Electrical Common Faults:
Aging wiring insulation, generator charging issues, starter solenoid failures.
Filter Part Numbers:
Oil filter part numbers (e.g., Harley-Davidson 63796-77, aftermarket equivalents) will be detailed for applicable models.
Spark Plug Specifications:
e.g., Champion L-77V, NGK D8EA or equivalent, with specific gap settings.
Founding:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Iconic Status:
Synonymous with American motorcycling, known for its V-twin engines and enduring designs.
Predecessors:
Evolved from earlier FL models, incorporating advancements in suspension, braking, and engine technology.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The 'Electra Glide' name and its associated fairing and luggage were introduced in 1965, defining the ultimate touring machine.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Significance:
This era marked the transition from the Panhead engine to the Shovelhead, a significant engineering change for Harley-Davidson.
Model Recognition:
Widely recognized as a benchmark for American touring motorcycles, influencing the design of touring bikes for decades.
Ownership Satisfaction:
High owner loyalty and satisfaction among enthusiasts who appreciate its classic riding experience and mechanical nature.
Historical Significance:
Designated as a classic motorcycle, often sought after by collectors and for participation in vintage events.
