Positioning:
The 1963 Electra Glide represented Harley-Davidson's flagship touring motorcycle, aimed at riders seeking comfort and long-distance capability.
Competitors:
Competed primarily against other large-displacement American touring motorcycles of the era.
Model Features:
Introduction of the FLHF (Electra Glide) designation, embodying premium touring features, full instrumentation, and comfortable seating for rider and passenger.
Coverage Overview:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance for the 1963 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 200-300 pages (typical for a full service manual of this era).
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially available as a printed reproduction.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting of the Panhead engine, including carburetor, ignition, and cooling systems.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 4-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch and gear shifting mechanisms.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, lighting, charging system (generator), and ignition system diagnosis.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on exact sub-model/update), rear suspension, wheel bearings, and steering head bearing service.
Brakes:
Drum brake system overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, and carburetor service (likely Linkert or S&S).
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal/installation, body panel adjustments, and trim component service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication, filter changes, and general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, component repair, reassembly, and alignment of all major vehicle components.
Rebuilds:
Comprehensive guidance for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Depth:
Expert level; suitable for professional mechanics and highly skilled DIY enthusiasts aiming for complete restoration and rebuilds.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans, searchable text if OCR processed, vector graphics for diagrams.
Reproduction Quality:
Professional printing on durable paper, clear reproductions of diagrams and photographs.
Binding:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
Heavyweight, glossy, or matte paper stock resistant to shop fluids.
Engine Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1212 cc)
Engine Configuration:
OHV V-twin (Panhead)
Engine Cooling:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 50-55 hp (estimated, figures varied)
Torque:
Significant torque for cruising, specific figures not readily available for this model year.
Carburetor Type:
Linkert M-series or S&S Super E (depending on factory or aftermarket fitment).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Battery-Ignition (Points and Condenser)
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios documented in the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.02:1, 2nd: 2.08:1, 3rd: 1.52:1, 4th: 1.19:1 - typical for the era).
Transmission Oil:
Gear oil, typically SAE 50 or 90W (manual will specify exact viscosity and type).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Length:
Approximately 90 inches (2286 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 5.0 gallons (18.9 L)
Front Tire Size:
3.00 x 19 inches (typical)
Rear Tire Size:
4.00 x 18 inches (typical)
Safety Standards:
1960s era safety standards; no formal crash ratings as per modern classifications.
Braking System:
Dual leading shoe front and rear drum brakes.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, stop light, turn signals (if equipped).
Oil Change:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles or annually (typical for the era).
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles.
Tune Up:
Ignition points, spark plugs, carburetor adjustment annually or every 3,000-5,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 50W or 60W motorcycle-specific oil (e.g., straight mineral oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 L).
Primary Case Oil:
Same as engine oil or specified gear oil.
Brake Fluid:
Not applicable (drum brakes do not use hydraulic fluid).
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (especially from Panhead valve guides), worn valve guides, ignition timing issues, carburetor tuning complexities, clutch adjustment, and general wear and tear on components due to age.
Restoration Considerations:
Sourcing original or high-quality reproduction parts for restoration is crucial.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson's long-standing reputation for producing robust, large-displacement motorcycles since 1903.
Electra Glide Development:
The Electra Glide name was introduced in 1965, but the 1963 model represents a precursor to this fully-faired touring machine, building on the Hydra-Glide and Duo-Glide lineage.
Production Years:
The 'Electra Glide' designation officially began in 1965, but this manual covers a model from the pre-Electra Glide era, often referred to as the FLHF (for Hydra-Glide Fairing) or FLHS (for Hydra-Glide Special).
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
