This very special machine was first registered with the DVLA on the 25th August 1947 and according to the log book it was with its owner until 1957 where it was based in Durham.
Post war it was painted cream and maroon until it was repainted by the previous owner in around 1965. At that point it was dismantled, put into boxes and forgotten about for 55 years.
Purchased in August 2020 the machine was rebuilt over a 6 month period bringing the bike into its current state. The bike was 95% complete with all original parts. Around £1800 worth of receipts showing all of the additional parts that I needed to complete the bike.
The main missing pieces were battery box, battery, wiring loom, new tyre, rear lights, crash bars, luggage rack, handlebar grips, mirror.
The generator and horn were overhauled.
Parts needed to get it to full WLA spec are ammo box, scabbard and bracket, blackout light and panniers.
When rebuilding the machine it was made sure to assemble it literally as it came out of the box. Engine was completely rebuilt with lots of new parts. It came with a set of original re-bored cylinders and new pistons which were installed.
According to the Palmer military Harley Davidson bible, all of the parts and markings are correct for the engine stamp and matching belly numbers which indicate late 1942 production.
It's apparent that due to this bike having spent most of its life in a box it has fortunately avoided 55 years of wear and tear and chopping and changing of parts. The bike and all of the documents that came with it tell a great story of the life of the bike along with the previous owner, with price lists from old HD parts suppliers to letters to and from a chap whose WLA was featured in the March 1984 issue of Classic Bike Magazine.
The documented history of the bike continues with its ownership including the Bonhams brochure and receipt of sale along with all parts receipts.
The Bike runs faultlessly and I have covered an estimated 5000 miles over the course of about 18 months.
Unfortunately the odometer stopped turning over at 595 miles, though the needle still works.
In summary, this is an amazing opportunity to own a real piece of history!
It would make a perfect canvas for a full restoration or just leave as it is for the aged patina look.
You tube video link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVJzuJ6_ptc