The pan-head engine is Harley-Davidson’s second overhead-valve engine. This engine was introduced in 1948. It was quieter and cleaner than the Knucklehead (another type of the Harley Davidson engine) which had been used since 1936. The Pan head got its name from the large flat covers at the top of the cylinder heads. It had a better cooling system than the Knucklehead, as well as other modifications that reduced wear. This made it easier to maintain.
The Harley-Davidson Pan-Head became popular with police forces across the nation and this example is an beautiful offering of the classic design.
