This manual covers Flathead motorcycles produced from 1940 to 1947, encompassing a range of iconic models including the WL, WLA, WLC, U, UL, UH, ULH, R, RL, and VL series. These motorcycles are powered by robust Flathead V-twin engines, featuring various configurations such as the 45 cubic inch 'W' series and the larger 74 cubic inch 'U' series. Renowned for their enduring reliability and distinctive character, Flatheads, particularly the military-spec WLA and WLC variants, played a significant role during World War II and remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their historical importance and classic engineering. This comprehensive Factory Service Repair Manual provides essential, factory-level detail for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of these vintage motorcycles. It covers all major systems, including engine assembly and tuning, transmission and clutch operation, chassis and suspension servicing, braking systems, and electrical components. The manual includes detailed procedures for regular maintenance, diagnostic troubleshooting, component overhaul, and the identification of specialized tools. Its extensive coverage ensures that owners, mechanics, and restorers have the precise information needed to preserve and maintain these legendary machines to original factory specifications. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Harley-Davidson Model: Flathead Model Generations Covered: WL, WLA, WLC, U, UL, UH, ULH, R, RL, VL series Model Years Covered: 1940, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945, 1946, 1947 Codes Engine Codes: Various Flathead V-twin configurations (e.g., 45 cubic inch 'W' series, 74 cubic inch 'U' series) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Owners, mechanics, and restorers of 1940-1947 Harley-Davidson Flathead motorcycles, particularly military WLA/WLC models and civilian U/UL, R/RL variants. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides the definitive, official factory repair information, essential for accurate maintenance, troubleshooting, and restoration of these iconic vintage motorcycles. Key Features Manual Essentiality: Crucial for anyone performing repairs or restoration on these models, offering factory-correct procedures and specifications unavailable in generic guides. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive, typical factory manuals of this era exceed 300-500 pages, covering all listed models and systems in detail. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, troubleshooting, carburetion (e.g., Linkert M-series), ignition systems (e.g., Magneto, battery ignition), lubrication systems, cooling systems (air-cooled). Transmission Systems: Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch operation and adjustment, shifting mechanisms. Chassis And Suspension: Frame inspection, front fork (e.g., Springer, leading-link) service and repair, rear suspension (if applicable), wheel bearing maintenance, steering head adjustment. Braking Systems: Brake shoe adjustment, drum brake disassembly and service, brake linkage. Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, horn, generator/battery charging system, starter motor (if applicable). Fuel Systems: Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters, carburetor servicing and tuning. Exhaust Systems: Muffler and pipe service, mounting. Bodywork And Fittings: Fender mounting and alignment, seat assembly, handlebar installation and adjustment, control cable routing and adjustment. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Regular servicing, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor tuning, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks. Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and mechanical noise. Repair Procedures: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major systems. Overhaul Procedures: Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, and fork rebuilding. Special Tool Identification: Identification of required special tools for specific repair operations. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated restorers. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine teardowns and rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely OCR'd for text searchability, allowing quick access to specific topics. Print Quality Scan Resolution: Expected to be high-quality scans of original factory documents, ensuring legibility of text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding For Download: N/A (Digital download format) Paper Type Original Manual Paper: Original manuals were typically printed on durable paper stock suitable for shop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Overhead Valve (OHV) 'Flathead' V-twin Displacement 45 Cu In: 45.24 cubic inches (741.5 cc) Displacement 74 Cu In: 73.74 cubic inches (1208.3 cc) Bore Stroke 45 Cu In: 3.00 x 3.125 inches (76.2 x 79.4 mm) Bore Stroke 74 Cu In: 3.3125 x 3.3125 inches (84.1 x 84.1 mm) Performance Horsepower Approx 45 Cu In: Approximately 23-25 hp (varies by model and tuning) Torque Approx 45 Cu In: Torque figures not typically published in the same way as modern vehicles, but known for strong low-end torque. Fuel System Carburetor Type: Linkert M-series (e.g., M51, M74, M75, M76 depending on model and year) Fuel Type: Gasoline (petrol), octane rating appropriate for the era, often higher octane for performance models. Ignition System Ignition Type: Magneto ignition (common) or Battery & Coil ignition systems. Lubrication System Oil System: Total loss oiling system (oil is fed to the engine and exhausted). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type:...