Model Years Covered:
1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Target Audience:
Owners and mechanics specializing in vintage Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly those undertaking restoration or in-depth maintenance of 1959-1969 Electra Glide models.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-level technical information crucial for preserving and repairing these iconic motorcycles, often unavailable in simpler aftermarket manuals. Instant download offers immediate access.
Unlimited Access:
Sold with 'No Extra fees, No Expiry dates', emphasizing perpetual digital access.
Completeness:
Promoted as a 'Complete Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual', indicating high comprehensiveness.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, specifications, and tuning for the Panhead and early Shovelhead era engines.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 4-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, primary drive, and shifting mechanisms.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system (generator or early alternator), lighting, horn, starter motor, and battery charging system maintenance and repair.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert, early Keihin) service, adjustment, troubleshooting, and fuel tank and petcock maintenance.
Suspension:
Front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on specific year within the range) overhaul, oil changes, and rear shock absorber service.
Brakes:
Drum brake system service, adjustment, and troubleshooting for both front and rear brakes.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fairing (if applicable for later years in the range), and seat servicing.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, fluid changes, and general upkeep procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and rectifying common mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and wear limits for all major components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to full engine rebuilds and complete chassis overhauls. Suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Panhead (1959-1964) and early Shovelhead (1965-1969)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, OHV, V-twin
Displacement 1959-1962:
73.74 cubic inches (1208 cc) - commonly referred to as the 1200cc or 74 cubic inch OHV V-Twin.
Displacement 1963-1969:
73.74 cubic inches (1208 cc) for Panheads; 73.74 cubic inches (1208 cc) for early Shovelheads. A 80 cubic inch (1310 cc) Big Twin engine option may have been available on some models or as an aftermarket upgrade, though the primary focus for Electra Glide in this era was the 74 cubic inch.
Horsepower Approximate:
Approximately 50-60 hp, depending on year and specific engine configuration.
Torque Approximate:
Approximately 60-70 lb-ft, depending on year and specific engine configuration.
Carburetor Early:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M74B, M74).
Carburetor Later:
Keihin butterfly type (early models before Harley's own CV carburetors became standard).
Ignition System:
Battery and Coil with distributor (mechanical advance) or magneto ignition systems, transitioning to points ignition with timer advancements during this period.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift with hand clutch (or later heel-toe shift).
Optional Transmission:
Not generally applicable for factory standard transmissions within this period. 4-speed was the standard.
Primary Drive:
Enclosed chain drive with a wet multi-plate clutch.
Final Drive:
Belt drive (predominant for this era).
Wheelbase Approximate:
Approximately 60-62 inches.
Seat Height Approximate:
Approximately 28-30 inches (unladen).
Dry Weight Approximate:
Approximately 600-650 lbs, varying with year and accessories.
Fuel Tank Capacity Approximate:
Typically 4-5 gallons, depending on tank style.
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash safety ratings (like NHTSA or IIHS) were applicable to motorcycles of this era. Safety relied on rider skill and mechanical condition.
Active Safety:
Drum brakes, rider skill, and motorcycle handling characteristics.
Passive Safety:
Basic frame structure, rider protection primarily from apparel.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000-2,000 miles, or as specified in the manual for engine and transmission oil.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular tune-ups including spark plug inspection/replacement, points gap adjustment, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustments usually recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type Approximate:
For Panhead: Primarily SAE 50 or SAE 60 motorcycle-specific oil. For early Shovelhead: SAE 20W-50 or 50W motorcycle-specific oil. Specific part numbers would be detailed in the manual (e.g., Harley-Davidson's own branded oils if available then, or common brands like Valvoline, Pennzoil). The manual will specify the exact viscosity and API service classification required.
Transmission Oil Type Approximate:
Harley-Davidson heavy-duty transmission lubricant or equivalent 60W gear oil. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Primary chain case oil, typically a dedicated primary fluid or SAE 30 weight oil. Manual will specify.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific weight fork oil, e.g., Harley-Davidson fork oil or equivalent (weight varies by fork design). Manual will specify.
Panhead Common Issues:
Oil leaks (especially from rocker boxes and base gaskets), valve adjustments, cam follower wear, and potential for worn main bearings. Carburetor (Linkert) tuning can be finicky.
Shovelhead Common Issues:
Early Shovelheads inherited some Panhead oiling issues, particularly oiling the front cylinder properly. Valve train noise and the need for frequent adjustment are common. Ignition timing and carburetor (early Keihin) setup require precision.
Electrical Common Issues:
Generator output issues, regulator problems, worn wiring insulation, and starter solenoid failures.
Brake Common Issues:
Drum brake adjustment, lining wear, and potential for brake fade due to heat.
Heritage Statement:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles. This era represents a significant period of evolution for the brand.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The Electra Glide nameplate was introduced in 1965, succeeding the Hydra-Glide and Duo-Glide. It represented Harley-Davidson's flagship touring motorcycle.
Panhead To Shovelhead:
This service manual covers the transition from the venerable Panhead engine (engine cases with a 'pan' shaped rocker box cover) to the Shovelhead engine (distinguished by its 'shovel' shaped rocker box cover) which began production in 1966.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Significance:
These models are considered classics and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, forming the basis of modern Harley-Davidson touring bikes.
