Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle, premium segment of its era
Competitors:
Primarily competed within Harley-Davidson's own model lineup, representing the top-tier, comfortable touring option for long-distance riding
Features:
Large displacement V-twin engine, comfortable rider ergonomics, substantial fairing and saddlebags for touring, distinctive styling
Manual Purpose:
To empower owners and independent mechanics to perform all necessary maintenance and repair tasks, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vintage Electra Glide
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling system (air-cooled), valve train, ignition system, fuel system (carburetor adjustment and overhaul)
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission disassembly, assembly, maintenance, lubrication, clutch service
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork (leading link) overhaul, rear suspension, wheel bearing service, brake system (drum brakes) maintenance and adjustment, steering head bearing service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system troubleshooting, battery maintenance, generator/alternator service, starter motor, horn, instrumentation
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert) specifications, disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, jetting, fuel tank and lines
Bodywork:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank mounting, seat assembly, fairing (if applicable) maintenance, luggage rack service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake adjustments, lubrication points, general inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and mechanical failures
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repairs
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1207cc)
Engine Name:
Panhead (prior to full Shovelhead transition, but often seen as a bridge year)
Horsepower:
Approximately 55-60 hp (estimated)
Torque:
Not officially rated in modern terms, but substantial low-end torque typical of Harley V-twins
Carburetor:
Linkert M74B or M74BF (or similar Zenith/Bendix variants)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (use appropriate octane for vintage engines, e.g., 91+)
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil, distributor-based (may have magneto options on earlier or custom builds)
Oil System:
Total loss or recirculating oil system depending on specific build and era modifications (check manual for precise type)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift with hand clutch
Transmission Options:
N/A (4-speed was standard for this model)
Clutch Type:
Dry multi-plate clutch, operated by hand lever
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed within the manual, crucial for restoration and performance tuning
Transmission Fluid:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 gear oil (check manual for specific type and capacity)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length:
Approximately 93 inches (2362 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg), depending on accessories
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly rated in modern terms, but capacity is for rider and passenger plus luggage
Front Tire Size:
3.50 x 19 inches
Rear Tire Size:
4.00 x 18 inches (or similar 18-inch fitment)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Spoked wheels with solid axles and drum brakes)
Safety Standards:
N/A (No standardized crash testing for motorcycles of this era)
Braking System:
Dual leading shoe front drum brake, single leading shoe rear drum brake
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals (often optional or added later)
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame, designed for stability
Suspension:
Leading-link front fork with spring/damper, swingarm rear suspension with dual shock absorbers
Oil Change Interval:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era, consult manual for exact specification)
Engine Tune Up:
Periodic checks of ignition timing, carburetor settings, and valve clearances as per manual recommendations
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 500-1,000 miles
Engine Oil:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 motor oil (Harley-Davidson specifically recommended its own oil or equivalent, consult manual for exact type and capacity)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or SAE 50 gear oil (check manual for specifics)
Fork Oil:
Specific weight and quantity detailed in the manual
Engine Wear:
Valve guides, oil leaks, and potential cam follower wear due to design and material limitations of the era
Transmission Reliability:
Shift drum detent issues, kickstart mechanism wear
Electrical System:
Aging wiring, weak charging system (generator), ignition points and condenser maintenance
Carburetor Tuning:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment for optimal performance
Chassis Lubrication:
Regular greasing of steering head bearings, swingarm pivot, and other chassis points
Brand Establishment:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The Electra Glide line was introduced in 1965, featuring the electric starter, a significant innovation for large motorcycles.
Engine Development:
The 1965 model year marked the transition from the Panhead engine to the early 'Shovelhead' top end on some models, though the crankcase remained Panhead-based. This manual should cover this transitional period.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Sales Impact:
The Electra Glide quickly became the flagship touring model, defining the 'bagger' style and establishing Harley-Davidson's dominance in the large-displacement cruiser market.
Industry Impact:
The 1965 Electra Glide is a landmark motorcycle, renowned for ushering in the era of the electric starter and solidifying Harley-Davidson's touring motorcycle reputation.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible vintage motorcycle, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and classic styling.
Manual Certification:
N/A (This is a third-party service manual)
