Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson WLA owners, restorers, and mechanics
Authenticity:
Genuine factory information, not a third-party imitation
Value Proposition:
Enables DIY repairs, saving on labor costs
Resource Type:
Ultimate resource for WLA owners
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, Repair, Tuning
All Components:
Coverage for every component from engine to electrical systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
File Format:
PDF Download
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and tuning
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for the transmission
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting, and repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension, wheels, and brakes
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel lines, and fuel tank maintenance
Exhaust System:
Inspection, repair, and replacement
Bodywork And Trim:
Body panel repair, paintwork guidance, and trim installation
Suspension:
Front fork (Spring fork, often with a damper) and rear suspension (rigid frame)
Brakes:
Detailed inspection, adjustment, and repair of drum brake mechanisms.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, spoke tensioning, tire selection and mounting guidance.
Maintenance:
Routine service, lubrication, fluid changes, and inspection schedules
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based problem solving
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Tuning And Adjustment:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing adjustments, and performance optimization
Engine Rebuild:
Full engine disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly procedures.
Ignition System Service:
Spark plug, ignition coil, distributor (if applicable), points, and condenser service.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full rebuilds
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations and diagrams accompany procedures.
Specifications Data:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances for various components.
Engine Type:
Flathead V-Twin (OHV)
Engine Displacement:
45 cubic inches (740 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.00 in x 3.50 in (76.2 mm x 88.9 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by year and specific model, typically around 5.0:1 to 6.0:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 20-24 hp (net) at 4800 RPM
Torque:
Approximately 30-35 ft-lbs at 3200 RPM
Carburetor Type:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M-53, M-74)
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (Leaded fuel historically, unleaded with precautions)
Transmission Type:
3-speed constant mesh, manual (Hand clutch, foot shift)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for WLA models
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, foot-pedal operated
Drive Type:
Chain drive to rear wheel
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Historical military vehicle, no modern crash ratings)
Brakes:
Drum brakes (Front and Rear)
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, and often military blackout lights
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000-2,000 miles, or annually (consult manual for specifics)
Tune Up Interval:
Regularly, especially ignition points and carburetor adjustments
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 50 or SAE 60 motorcycle oil (common for flathead engines, consult manual for exact specification)
Transmission Oil Type:
Gear oil, typically SAE 90 (consult manual)
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Motorcycle specific primary oil or SAE 50 engine oil (consult manual)
Brake Fluid:
N/A (Mechanical drum brakes, no hydraulic fluid)
Common Wear Items:
Ignition points, condensers, carburetor gaskets/diaphragms, valve guides, primary chain adjustment.
Engine Care:
Proper oil viscosity and level are critical for flathead engine longevity.
Brand Origin:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Wla Development:
Developed from civilian models for military use, notably during WWII. Optimized for ruggedness and reliability.
Production Period:
Significant production from late 1930s through WWII, with continued civilian variants and production into the 1950s and variations covered by the manual up to 1973.
Military Use:
Widely used by the U.S. Army and its allies during World War II.