Harley-Davidson Panhead V-Twin Engine

The Harley-Davidson Panhead (so called for its pan-shaped rocker covers) replaced the Knucklehead in 1948 and introduced hydraulic valve lifters for the first time on a Harley — eliminating the constant valve clearance adjustments that afflicted its predecessor. The 1948 Panhead (61ci/74ci) and the 1965 FLH Electra Glide represent the beginning and end of the Panhead era — 1965 was the last year before the Shovelhead. Both engines share the same 45° V-twin architecture, pushrod-in-tube valvetrain, and unit construction that defines Harley-Davidson's mechanical identity.