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'68 Electra Glide Restoration

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Old Feb 10, 2011 | 10:49 AM
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Default '68 Electra Glide Restoration

Just starting a new project, restoring a '68 FLH. It has been in storage for years and we even found an old check from '75 and papers in the the windshield bag, I guess the last time it was ridden regularly.



We got it up on the lift and wiped down




Started chipping away at the '70's custom paint somebody did and found some of the original Sparkeling Blue!


Looking for pictures of '67-'72 factory paint schemes and have not had much luck in my search, please post up your pics or links. So I can have some ideas for the painter.
 
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Old Feb 10, 2011 | 11:15 AM
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Definitely a very nice find. The rear fender lloks like it is painted Black Pearl. It was a one-year only color scheme on the 1976 Liberty Edition models. The tail light housing looks like original paint color however

Since you are Maryland I would assume that the winter storms means you are not getting a lot of riding time in. That said pick up Tom Murphys book on Harley Davidson Shovelhead. Good color history with some facts thrown in as well.

I do not have any pics but standard color scheme for 68 were Black and Jet-Fire Orange. Optional colors included Sparkling Burgundy and Sparkling Blue. The tank panels had a black crackle finish with white stripes. Know that w/o pics it means jack but heck it is a starting point.

Good luck with refurbish and please keep us posted of your progress.
 
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Old Feb 10, 2011 | 04:02 PM
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Started breaking her down trying to figure out which parts are original and what was added on over the years.





Right now we are stumped on the bags, and not sure if they are original or later. Still could use any photos, 'found a '72 in the Sparkeling Blue but it's an AMF bike and so not sure where that black goes on the tank. Gonna have to track down a copy of that book.
 
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Old Feb 10, 2011 | 09:56 PM
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Not the best of shots but gives you an idea...



 
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Old Feb 10, 2011 | 10:03 PM
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from looking at another pic you posted I am thinking that the paint scheme is in fact the 76 color I talked about. The tank emblem was different but if screw holes were same it would have worked. Another thing is the windshield...should be rounded on top and not peaked.

MoCo date coded lots of things like cylinders, heads trannys, frame, seat, mufflers...major components so that will help you determine accuracy of parts as well.

Oh and on the second pic, owner add some stuff like the cooling ring and hub cap to the front wheel and the tin covers over the tranny. Also changed out the original saddle bag rails for one made by Superior or they may be Dixie (2 most common aftermarket parts supplier at the time)


A pic of the 76 color that looks a lot like yours

 

Last edited by panz4ever; Feb 10, 2011 at 10:12 PM.
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Old Feb 11, 2011 | 09:27 AM
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I have a 1968 Electra Glide that is in the family since 1972. It is all original except for the tires. The bags on your bike look original except for the color. They were painted white. Also they should have the old suit case type latches. The windshield looks correct except for the top part I believe this shield was on the older pan head. I have pictures and if I can resize them to fit I'll post them. Good luck.
 
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Old Feb 11, 2011 | 09:46 AM
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Default pic of 68 electra glide

Here is a pic I hope it isn't to small.
 
Attached Thumbnails '68 Electra Glide Restoration-2010-oley-amca-meet-034.jpg  
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Old Feb 11, 2011 | 11:29 AM
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More pics Hope it helps
 
Attached Thumbnails '68 Electra Glide Restoration-2010-oley-amca-meet-033.jpg   '68 Electra Glide Restoration-2010-oley-amca-meet-031.jpg  
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Old Feb 11, 2011 | 02:48 PM
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Thanks 68FLHGLIDE great looking Shovel you've got there. Looking for a replacement windsreen now, gonna go with the Sparkle Blue.

Yup panz, that '76 color looks like what is on there now, but not for long. Tins are off to the painter this afternoon.

Thanks for the info on the saddle bag rails, 'will need to consult with the boss to see if we will try and find the stock ones or clean up what's on there now.

I'll post more as we move ahead.
 
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Old Feb 14, 2011 | 10:07 PM
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Originally Posted by 68FLHGLIDE
I have a 1968 Electra Glide that is in the family since 1972. It is all original except for the tires. The bags on your bike look original except for the color. They were painted white. Also they should have the old suit case type latches. The windshield looks correct except for the top part I believe this shield was on the older pan head. I have pictures and if I can resize them to fit I'll post them. Good luck.
Back then all the factory bags were white only, a lot of people painted them to match later on. In '77 they came color matched to the bike.
 
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