Description
Harley Davidson 1946 model 46U 1200 cc 2 cyl sv combination Frame # 6026431 Engine # U52144
Announced in August 1929 as a replacement for the much loved two-cam ‘pocket valve’ J-type, the Model U’s progenitor – the Model V – was far from an instant success.
More massively built and heavier than its predecessor, the V lacked top end power to such an extent that the first examples were recalled for an extensive engine redesign.
A larger crankcase accommodating heavier flywheels did the trick and, its problems solved, the V-series ‘flat head’ twins went on to win
the hearts of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts everywhere. An 80ci (1,300cc) VLH arrived for 1935, joining he existing V and VL (high-compression) 74s.
Revised with the frame, tank and wheels of the 61ci overhead-valve ‘Knucklehead’, plus dry-sump lubrication, the V became the Model U for 1937.
Inside the engine there was virtually nothing left unchanged: the crankpin was enlarged, connecting rods strengthened and the flywheels grew in size, while in the interests of rationalising production, the ’74’s bore size changed to that of the ohv ’61’ and stroke to that of the ’80’. Improved and
updated annually into the early 1940s, the old ‘flat head’ U series recommenced production after WW2, finally disappearing from the range at the end of 1948.
This 1946 Harley-Davidson Model “U” Fitted with a Harley Davidson sidecar was restored some years ago and is still in good condition.