1951 Rear Fender

[VPH-D]

Looking for input on which rear fender is correct for an early 1951 FL. Most sources state the fender with the 3 vertical ribs is correct, but I have seen photos of the single rib fender, too.
Palmer's book shows a 1951 production police model with the single rib. I know the single trim stripe at the tail light is correct for 1951. Any help?
VPH-D

[exeric]

The three rib fender is correct for 1951. That fender had a problem with the 3 ribbed skirt because it would tend to warp inwards and rub the tire. I formed a piece of 3/16" X 1.0" steel into an "L" shape and mounted it to the lower fender mounting hole to keep the skirt away from the tire. I believe the photo you refer to shows a modified fender, cut away to accomodate the siren, or the photo is of a real late '51 using the new '52 fender. Regardless, you would be safe to use the 3 ribbed fender.

[flthead]

51 fender

teds cycle[v-twin] is now selling the correct fender