What was the first year the gusset was added to the Duo Glide frame?

[Reddog74usa]

Can ya tell me when they started adding the reinforcement gusset on the left rear down tube on the Duo Glide frames. I had a 59 and it did not have it. I'm thinking around 62 or 63

[CraigArizona85248]

According to Palmer's book, that gusset was an add for 1969-later frames.  He notes that the gusset was available as a repair item and was added to some '58-'64 frames after the fact.

-Craig

[Reddog74usa]

Thanks Bro 

[Speeding Big Twin]

Craig, you're right about Palmer saying 1969-later. But my H-D parts catalogs list gusset plate #47261-68 as a repair part available for use 1958â€"early-1968, indicating it was a standard factory fitting as of mid/late-1968. I read years ago the California Highway Patrol contacted H-D after the frames of some police bikes cracked and that led to the gusset being introduced. However, I’ve never been able to confirm the story about the CHP.

Palmer also states: ‘... two reinforcement gussets on the transmission side of the back down tubes from the swing arm mount up.’ I’ve owned several Shovelhead frames with the gusset fitted as standard and I still own the frame below. I’ve also known many people who owned them and I’ve seen lots more. But none of them had two gussets. All of them had one gusset only.     Eric

[greybeard_541]

When I was building my bike, an old timer suggested the addition of this as it was a known weak spot on the frame- didn't doubt his knowledge, had one sent with an order from J&P and welded that sucker on. No reason to take a chance (IMHO) having the motor and trans out made it an easy addition.

Greybeard

[ModelABob]

I added a home made gusset to the frame of a '66 Shovel I owned back in the 70's.  My '65 Pan dosen't have one and I don't plan on adding one either.  Been riding it for over 25 years, including one major wreck, with no problems.  Just my
.02 cents....

AMF/Ride & Shoot Safe

[panic]

I bought some 1968-70 police bikes from NYCPD, some had both sides gusseted.

[Harleyminiguy]

Hello harleyminiguy here
We are re working a 60 duo glide. Can someone provide a picture or information on adding the gusset?

[HogMike]

Hello harleyminiguy here
We are re working a 60 duo glide. Can someone provide a picture or information on adding the gusset?

My 65 frame was cracked at that weld. I found that gusset at a swap meet years ago and welded it on. The 65 and earlier didn't have one. Never had that issue with the earlier bikes.
My 65 was ridden on fire roads and desert trails earlier on in my troubled youth! LOL

[HogMike]

Pics

[HogMike]

I found a picture of an replica frame that has the bracket on the left side to give an idea of what it looks like on the bike.You cannot see attachments on this board.

[Buglet]

  Have an original 62 and 67 neither one has gussets.