1940-1958 Harley-Davidson Servi-Car & 45 SV Factory Service Manual (P/N 12731-29)

• Covers 1940–1958 Harley-Davidson Servi-Car and 45 SV motorcycles, documenting factory engine, drivetrain, chassis, and electrical specifications for the V-type side valve configuration
• Third-party publication, 1986 Antique Cycle Supply Inc., P/N 12731-29
• Features over 60 technical diagrams, including exploded-view assemblies for the engine, transmission, and differential housing
• Delivers 82 pages of factory-recommended tolerances and maintenance intervals often missing from general enthusiast guides

Component and System Documentation

Tackling a vintage V-twin requires more than guesswork. This manual breaks down the complete teardown and assembly process for the 45-degree V-type engine. You will find specific details on valve guides, tappets, and proper piston fitting. It also maps out exact lubrication schedules for the engine oil, transmission, and chain oilers.

Beyond the motor, the guide includes comprehensive exploded-view diagrams. These cover the three-speed constant mesh transmission and the unique Servi-Car differential assembly. Electrical troubleshooting gets easier with included wiring schematics and generator testing procedures. On the chassis side, expect clear outlines for fork alignment, steering damper assembly, and hydraulic brake system maintenance.

Specification Highlights

Getting the tolerances right is critical on these historic machines. The data tables provide essential clearance and torque values straight from the era. For instance, mainshaft endplay is documented exactly between 0.003 and 0.005 inches. Standard V-type piston-cylinder clearance is specified at a tight 0.001 to 0.002 inches. Fuel capacity for the trike setup is listed at 3.4 U.S. gallons.

While this 82-page reproduction is an invaluable reference standard, working on vintage motorcycles carries inherent risks. Always ensure you have the proper training or consult a certified mechanic before applying these specifications to live shop work.