Target Audience:
Owners, restorers, mechanics working on Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycles.
Value Proposition:
Essential guide for maintaining and repairing the iconic Harley-Davidson WLA military motorcycle.
Manual Superiority:
Focuses specifically on the WLA model, unlike more generic military motorcycle manuals.
Operational Focus:
Dedicated sections on solo operation specific to the military context.
Historical Context:
Provides context for the WLA's design and role in military operations.
Manual Title:
Best Harley-Davidson Military Motorcycle Model 42WLA-Solo Operation & Maintenance Manual
Primary Coverage:
Solo Operation & Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Repair, Servicing
Type:
Service Manual / Maintenance Manual
Engine:
WL Series 45ci (737cc) Flathead V-Twin Engine
Transmission:
3-Speed Constant Mesh Transmission
Clutch:
Wet Multi-Plate Clutch
Fuel System:
Carburetion (e.g., Linkert M-series), Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Fuel Pump (if applicable)
Ignition System:
Battery & Coil Ignition, Spark Plugs, Distributor
Electrical System:
Lighting, Generator, Wiring Harness, Battery, Horn
Frame And Suspension:
Steel Frame, Leading Link Front Forks, Rear Swingarm (if applicable to model variant), Shock Absorbers
Brakes:
Drum Brakes (Front & Rear), Brake Rods, Brake Cables
Wheels And Tires:
Spoked Wheels, Tire Specifications, Tube Types
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fenders, Saddlebags (Canvas), Toolboxes, Handlebars, Seat Assembly
Maintenance Routines:
Daily Checks, Weekly Servicing, Monthly Inspections
Engine Overhaul:
Top-End Rebuild, Bottom-End Rebuild, Piston/Ring Replacement, Valve Adjustment
Transmission Service:
Clutch Adjustment, Gearbox Disassembly/Reassembly, Lubrication
Carburetor Adjustment:
Idle Speed, Air/Fuel Mixture, Float Level
Ignition Timing:
Setting Ignition Timing, Distributor Adjustment
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Fault Diagnosis
Brake System Maintenance:
Drum Brake Adjustment, Cable Lubrication, Shoe Replacement
Suspension Servicing:
Fork Oil Change, Shock Absorber Inspection
Wheel Bearing Service:
Repack, Replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Engine Won't Start, Poor Performance, Overheating, Electrical Faults
Depth:
Comprehensive: From routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and specifications.
Diagnostics:
Includes guidance on diagnosing common mechanical and electrical issues specific to the WLA.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, L-head (Flathead) configuration
Displacement:
737 cc (45 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.0625 in x 3.25 in (77.8 mm x 82.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 5.0:1 (varies slightly by year/spec)
Horsepower Approx:
24 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Torque Approx:
37.5 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
Carburetor Model:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M74, M74B)
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (Octane rating appropriate for the era, typically lower than modern fuels)
Type:
Splash and Pressure Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters)
Overall Length:
Approx. 87 inches (2210 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 35 inches (889 mm) at handlebars
Seat Height:
Approx. 28 inches (711 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 500 lbs (227 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
Approx. 700 lbs (318 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US gallons (13.2 liters)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters)
Military Standard Compliance:
Designed to meet US Army specifications for durability and reliability in harsh conditions.
Braking System:
Drum brakes front and rear, requiring careful modulation.
Handling Characteristics:
Stable but requires rider skill due to its weight and design; neutral steering.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for strength.
Lighting:
Basic headlight, taillight, and stoplight for visibility.
Horn:
Audible warning device.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 1,000-1,500 miles (1,600-2,400 km) or at least annually. Frequent checks recommended.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust every 500 miles (800 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 2,000 miles (3,200 km), replace as needed.
Brake Adjustment:
Check and adjust brakes before each ride or every 500 miles.
Carburetor Cleaning:
Recommended annually or as needed based on performance.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 Motorcycle Oil (straight weight recommended for older engines). Consult specific manual for temperature variations.
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 60 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent gear lubricant.
Primary Chain Lubrication:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent.
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W or 20W Fork Oil (depending on desired damping).
Carburetor Leaking:
Linkert carburetors can be prone to leakage if seals deteriorate or float levels are incorrect.
Oil Leaks:
Characteristic of vintage flathead engines; requires diligent gasket and seal maintenance.
Generator Output:
Early generators can be less robust than modern alternators; may require voltage regulator adjustment or rebuilding.
Belt Drive Wear:
The original canvas belt drive can degrade over time; requires proper tensioning and inspection.
Drum Brake Effectiveness:
Drum brakes are less powerful than modern disc brakes and require diligent maintenance and adjustment.
Manufacturer Origin:
United States
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long history of producing robust motorcycles for civilian and military use.
Predecessor Model:
W (civilian version), WLD (police version)
Design Basis:
Developed from civilian models for military requirements, emphasizing ruggedness and simplicity.
Key Developments:
Upgraded electrical system, robust frame, provision for sidecar mounting, and specific military finishes.
Production Period:
1942-1945 (WWII Era)
Production Volume:
Over 80,000 units produced for Allied forces (US, UK, Canada, Russia, etc.).
Primary Use:
Reconnaissance, dispatch, troop movement, patrol, and towing light equipment by military personnel.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
