49 panhead front fork

[hdhikaru]

Hi there,

I am in search of original 49 panhead front fork set. is that the year only or some years are in common? this top bolts are used..... right? 71929.jpg

any information are appreciated.

tks!!
Shin

[Rubone]

Those top bolts are a "kit" to fix the fork breathing issues. Early '49 had solid top plugs and the forks pressurized causing leaks. Those you have were the first retro fix, later they were changed to the hollow leg plug with the air/oil separator stack and a top plug with a breather in it.

[panz4ever]

What you have is what I am running on my 49 EL. Don't know if my 49 is considered "early" or not (pre-500 on the VIN#), but it came that way (bike was in pieces in several boxes and crates). If considered "early" someone bought the "fix" long before I owned it. Doesn't make sense to go to a solid plug that is guaranteed to leak at sooner than later.

Yes those are corrtect for 1949.

[Speeding Big Twin]

[panz4ever]

Speeding Big Twin, thanks for the service bulletin. Added it to my files for the 49.