This technical manual is published for the information and guidance of the using arm personnel charged with the operation, maintenance, and minor repair of this materiel. b. In addition to a description of the Harley-Davidson motor- cycle, this manual contains technical information required for the identification, use, and care of the materiel. The manual is divided into two parts. Part One, section I through section VI, gives vehicle operating instructions. Part Two, section VII through section XXV, gives vehicle maintenance instructions to using arm personnel charged with the responsibility of doing maintenance work within their juris- diction. c. In a11 cases where the nature of the repair, modifications, or adjustment is beyond the scope or facilities of the unit, the responsible ordnance service should be informed so that trained personnel with suitable tools and equipment may be provided, or proper instructions issued.

Based on the civilian WL model, Harley-Davidson's WLA ("A" for "Army") motorcycle was first produced in 1940. It would remain in production through 1945, and eventually over 90,000 weredelivered for use in all theaters of WWII. Like the WL, the WLA was equipped with a 45 cubic inch (740 cc) flathead high compression engine and arugged frame. Military modifications included blackout lights, fenders without traditional sides (to reduce mud clogging), an air cleaner to facilitate off-road use and easy maintenance, and a crankcase breather that enabled the fording of water obstacles. The motorcycle typically was also equipped with leg protectors, a skid plate, leather rifle or machine gun scabbard, an ammunition box, radio or luggage rack, and a windscreen. This U.S. Army technical manual TM 9-879 was created in 1943 for the men who operated and serviced the WLA in the field. In its pages you will find a description of the motorcycle, and information regarding its use and care.Originally classified "restricted", this manual was declassified long ago and is reprinted here in its entirety. Legal disclaimer: The name "Harley-Davidson" is a trademark of H-D Michigan, LLC and the Harley Davidson Motor Co., which reserves all rights to it.

TM 9-879 Motorcycle, Solo (Harley Davidson Model WLA) 1943-10-18"In addition to a description of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle, this manual contains technical information required for the identification, use, and care of the materiel. The manual is divided into two parts, Part One, section I through section VI, gives vehicle operating instructions. Part Two, section VII through section XXV, gives vehicle maintenance instructions to using arm personnel charged with the responsibility of doing maintenance work within their jurisdiction."

The story of an iconic model in the long history of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the WLA, which was used by Allied forces during WWII, is told for the first time. Developed for the US Army's mechanized cavalry, it became the leading US military motorcycle of the war. It served the US armed services as a messenger and military police vehicle. The Red Army's motorcycle battalions, reconnaissance units of its tank armies, also used them as their primary vehicle. The armies of the Soviet Union, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, China, and Brazil also made use of the model and its variants. It is known today as the "Liberator"; discover the history and stories of individuals who rode this icon to war and why the model is now a favorite among civilian collectors.