Harley-Davidson Panhead Restoration

Book excerpt: Among all the older Harley-Davidson models, none holds the allure of the Panhead. Manufactured from 1948 to 1965, the Panhead might be called the first modern Harley. Rick Schunk starts the discussion of Panhead restoration with a brief history lesson, followed by a list of things to look for, and avoid, when shopping for a Panhead. Before starting on a restoration, you have to assess both the machine's needs and your own abilities. The next section is dedicated to the bike's chassis, like the rest of the book, this part is made up of photo sequences that explain exactly how to disassemble the chassis, repair the fork, and lace the wire wheels. Other chapters cover paint, engines and transmissions including the overhaul of both an engine and a transmission. Related components like the carburetor, primary drive, clutch and electrical components are covered as well. While there are other restoration guides, there are no how-to restoration books that provide extensive, start-to-finish photo sequences explaining each major operation necessary to the restoration of a Harley-Davidson Panhead.