Market Position:
Iconic touring motorcycle, defining the 'bagger' segment for Harley-Davidson. Known for comfort, luggage capacity, and V-twin rumble.
Competitors 1959-1969:
Indian (until its decline), Triumph Bonneville, BSA models, European touring motorcycles.
Key Features:
Panhead engine, Uni-Fit frame, distinctive styling, comfortable rider and passenger seating, integrated saddlebags, highway cruising capability.
Covered Years:
1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 (Estimated for a comprehensive service manual of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system, engine tuning.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive, chain maintenance.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (generator/alternator), lighting, ignition coil, switches, starter motor.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on sub-model and year), rear suspension (swingarm, shock absorbers), wheel bearing service, steering head bearings.
Braking System:
Drum brake service (front and rear), brake linkage, master cylinder (if applicable for later models/variants), brake fluid considerations.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and cleaning, fuel lines, fuel petcock, carburetor maintenance and adjustment (e.g., Linkert, Keihin).
Bodywork Fittings:
Fender removal and installation, fairing (if equipped), luggage systems, seat removal and maintenance, instrument panel, controls.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake adjustments, battery checks.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Common problems and their solutions, diagnostic charts for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and replacement.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, timing specifications, electrical system voltages and resistances.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive coverage from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and exploded views.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Family:
Panhead (OHV) for most of the period, transitioning to Shovelhead later in the decade (though Electra Glide often retained Panhead or early Shovelhead configurations).
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1212cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 50-60 HP (Varies by year and tuning)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 65-75 ft-lbs (Varies by year)
Carburetor Type:
Linkert M-Series (e.g., M74B) or early Keihin CV carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (check manual for octane recommendations)
Ignition Type:
Battery & Coil, Distributor (for later models) or Magneto (early models/variants)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to model-specific specifications
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags (capacity varies)
Infotainment Systems:
Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, ammeter, oil pressure light/gauge, ignition switch. No advanced infotainment.
Driver Assistance Features:
None. Focus is on mechanical systems and rider input.
Connectivity Features:
None. Mechanical systems only.
Headlight Type:
Sealed beam halogen headlight, typically 7-inch diameter.
Taillight Brakelight:
Single bulb unit for taillight and brake light functions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000-2,000 miles or 6 months. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for detailed service schedules, often involving valve adjustments, ignition timing checks, and carburetor tuning.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual. Typically Harley-Davidson-specific V-twin oil, or suitable SAE 50 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Refer to manual. Often the same oil as used in the engine, or a dedicated primary lubricant.
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission oil or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
Drum brakes typically do not use brake fluid; they utilize mechanical linkages. If hydraulic elements are present in later variations, DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid might be specified.
Common Wear Items:
Worn valve guides, cam bushings, oil leaks from rocker boxes and crankcase seals, clutch wear, carburetor tuning issues, generator/regulator problems.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring, weak charging systems (generators), and regulator issues were common due to the era's technology.
Carburetor Challenges:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky to tune and maintain; wear in the throttle shaft can cause vacuum leaks.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of America's oldest motorcycle manufacturers, renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser/touring motorcycles.
Model Evolution:
The Electra Glide, introduced in 1965, built upon the FL Hydra-Glide and FL Duo-Glide, adding the iconic full fairing and electric starter (on some models) to create the ultimate touring machine of its time. The name 'Electra' alluded to the electric starter.
Production Period:
1959-1969 (as covered by this manual)
Key Production Milestones:
Introduction of the Shovelhead engine in 1966 (which would also be found in some FLH models during this period), development of the distinctive large fairing.
Historical Recognition:
The Electra Glide is widely recognized as a seminal touring motorcycle that cemented Harley-Davidson's dominance in the large-displacement motorcycle market during its era.
Owners Satisfaction:
Highly regarded by owners and collectors for its classic styling, robust V-twin performance, and comfortable touring capabilities, despite the mechanical demands of older technology.