Model Years Covered:
1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, restorers, and enthusiasts seeking accurate repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, factory-level data essential for maintaining, repairing, and restoring these classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, often surpassing third-party manuals in detail and accuracy.
Official Documentation:
Derived from original Harley-Davidson factory publications, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes specific diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees for efficient problem resolution.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, troubleshooting, and repair of Panhead and Shovelhead engine variants.
Transmission:
Service, repair, and troubleshooting of the 4-speed constant mesh transmission.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, and accessory circuits.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Linkert, Keihin) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and troubleshooting; fuel tank and lines.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (hydra-glide, leading-link) disassembly, service, and adjustment; rear suspension components; frame inspection and repair.
Braking System:
Drum brake system (front and rear) service, adjustment, and component replacement.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, spoke replacement.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, fairing (if applicable) service, saddlebag mounting, and related trim.
Controls:
Handlebar controls, throttle, clutch, brake levers, and pedal adjustments.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, lubrication schedules, filter changes, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed procedures for dismantling and reassembling engine, transmission, and other major assemblies.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive - Covers from basic adjustments and preventative maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type Early:
45° V-Twin, OHV, Air-Cooled (Panhead)
Engine Displacement Early:
74 cu in (1200 cc)
Engine Type Late:
45° V-Twin, OHV, Air-Cooled (Shovelhead introduction in 1966)
Engine Displacement Late:
74 cu in (1200 cc), later 80 cu in (1300 cc) Shovelhead variants may also have coverage depending on specific manual edition.
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 60-70 HP (varies by year and specific engine tuning)
Torque Est:
Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (varies by year and specific engine tuning)
Carburetor Early Models:
Linkert M-Series (e.g., M74, M74B)
Carburetor Later Models:
Keihin butterfly or Linkert M-Series depending on year and specification.
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil ignition with points and condenser.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Constant Mesh
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for this generation of Electra Glide.
Clutch Type:
Dry, multi-plate clutch operated by foot pedal and hand lever.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual, critical for restoration and performance tuning.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson transmission oil or equivalent (e.g., SAE 50 or SAE 60 motor oil depending on application).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 62.0 - 63.5 inches (varies slightly by year and specific configuration)
Overall Length:
Approx. 94.0 - 98.0 inches
Dry Weight:
Approx. 600-650 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 900-950 lbs
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags, capacity varies but designed for touring.
Safety Standards:
Manufactured to the safety standards of the era; manual details specific safety-related components and adjustments.
Braking System Type:
Drum brakes, front and rear, requiring careful adjustment and maintenance.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for touring stability.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000 - 2,000 miles, but consult the manual for precise intervals based on riding conditions.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Regular checks and adjustments are crucial (e.g., every 2,000 miles).
Wheel Bearing Service:
Lubrication and inspection typically every 5,000 - 10,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type Early:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommendations (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50 motor oil).
Engine Oil Type Late:
Refer to manual for Shovelhead specific recommendations.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson primary chain case oil or equivalent.
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson fork oil weight and type.
Panhead Oil Leaks:
Common for Panheads; manual provides guidance on seal and gasket replacement.
Shifter Mechanism:
Wear in the shifter pawl or linkage can cause shifting issues; detailed adjustment procedures in manual.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring and components can lead to intermittent electrical faults; manual's wiring diagrams are crucial.
Carburetor Tuning:
Linkert carburetors require precise adjustment for optimal performance; manual provides detailed tuning steps.
Filter Oil Part Number:
Part numbers for filters (oil, air) and common service items are typically listed within the manual. Specific numbers vary by sub-model and year.
Brand Origin:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide nameplate has been synonymous with large-displacement, comfortable touring motorcycles for Harley-Davidson since its introduction.
Panhead To Shovelhead:
This manual covers the transition from the iconic Panhead engine (until 1965) to the introduction of the Shovelhead engine (from 1966 onwards), representing significant engine development.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Market Impact:
Defined the large-displacement touring motorcycle segment in America, becoming a symbol of freedom and open-road travel.
Model Legacy:
The Electra Glide from this era is considered a landmark in American motorcycle design and a highly sought-after classic, frequently featured in automotive and motorcycle publications for its iconic status.
Owner Satisfaction:
High among dedicated enthusiasts and owners focused on restoration and historical accuracy.
Manual Accuracy:
Certified as a direct factory service manual, representing the highest level of accuracy and detail for technicians and owners.
