DIY Network

Introduction to DIY's 1948 Indian Chief Motorcycle Take a look at DIY's project '48 Indian Chief. From "Classic Rides" episode DCLR-301

In this segment DIY's Classic Rides host, Craig Reynolds, introduces the project vehicle: a '48 Indian Chief motorcycle.

Chris Matthews, an antique motorcycle expert, joins Craig on this involved restoration, and they start with a history of the unique bike and an explanation of the Indian serial code.

Host Craig Reynolds will be joined by...

Chris Matthews, an antique motorcycle expert.

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	The fully restored 1948 Indian Chief!
	Figure A
	Figure B

The 1948 Indian Chief Motorcycle

The 1948 Indian Chief is "the epitome of the American motorcycles," Chris Matthews declares. "They were not afraid to use metal. You know it's an Indian because it says it everywhere — and the parking light with an Indian head on it (figure A), and Indian on the shift knobs, saddle bags. They want you to know it's an Indian!"

But even if you took off all the embellishments, most motorcycle enthusiasts would still know it's an Indian.

Even if the bike you want to restore has different parts, Chris Matthews says you don't have to be an expert to find out what year the bike in question is built. You just have to know the secret — and with the Indian it's the serial number, which is basically a code (figure B):

C = Chief
D = 4, so '40
H = 8
SoD+H = '48 Chief

And if there is a "B" near the code, it stands for Battery Model, which has a coil and distributor on the other side with a distributor cap.

Note: The DIY project bike is being restored to ride — not to show!

RESOURCES :

Welders
Lincoln Electric
Website: www.lincolnelectric.com

Kiwi Indian
Website: www.kiwi-indian.com

V-Twin Mfg.
Rims, Spokes, Hubs, Tire Irons and Truing Stand
Website: www.vtwinmfg.com

Various Tools
Eastwood
Website: www.eastwoodco.com

Motorcycle Lift
Handy Lift
Website: www.handy-lift.com

Hepavac Asbestos Vacuum
Bullseye
Website: www.bullseyecorp.com

Parts Washer
Safety Kleen
Website: www.safety-kleen.com

Chrome Polish
G & H Metal Finishers
282 Dakota St.
Paterson, NJ 07503

Belt Grinder
Ellis Manufacturing
Website: www.ellissaw.com

Historical Photographs
Motorcycle Hall of Fame
Website: www.motorcyclemuseum.org

Indian Motorcycle Photographic History
Contact: Jerry Hatfield
E-mail: beemer73@sbcglobal.net