1938 Indian V8-60 Flathead

That's right, IMC has been heading out on the highway for over a century. This American brand was first produced in 1901. However, in the beginning, the company was called Hendee Manufacturing instead, until 1928, when the name was changed to the moniker it's still known by today. Can you imagine seeing a motorcycle driving around in the horse and buggy days? They probably caused quite a stir, which led to their subsequent success.

For consignment, a project that was inspired by 2 motorcycles. One built in 1946 by Joe Fabio and one in 1954 by Bill Drybek. Both used a Ford V8 60 power plant. Built from scratch so there is no title, just a bill of sale can be provided.

The frame is constructed utilizing a 1938 Indian Chief neck and 1.25 and 1 inch DOM tubing, and all welded with a tig welder using jigs for accuracy. Front end is 1938-39 Indian Chief using a custom triple clamp and rubber mounted Flanders risers. Handlebars are all custom using internal cables and 1946 controls.

The front wheel is an 18 inch 1938-39 Indian with the tire wrapping it weighing in at 4.00 x 18. Rear wheel is a 15-inch Harley rim with a 1938-39 Indian hub and drum brake. The Harley rim was used so the hub can be centered and not offset. Rear tire is 5.00 x 16. The surrounding fenders are fashioned from spare tire covers from unknown vehicles. Front is 5 inches wide and the rear 6 inches.

The gas tanks are reproduction 1938-39 Indian tanks that have been stretched 5 inches and widened and raised to maintain a correct shape to suit the lower wheelbase of the motorcycle. Both have been pressure tested and sealed then primed with Epoxy. There has never been fuel in them. Just behind the tanks is a repro 1938-39 open seam Indian solo seat.

Powering this heavy monster is a low mileage factory rebuilt 1937 iron sided Ford V8-60. It is fed fossils and air via a Stromberg 97 carburetor. Headers and pipes are stainless but only the tubes before their collectors have been polished. It has the factory starter and also the flywheel has been retained. There is no clutch or pressure plate, and the flywheel has a splined insert to operate a right angle gearbox. This gearbox drives an early Harley 4 speed transmission, which retains a stock Harley clutch, so no rollover or movement is felt when using the throttle. Shifting is done by a foot clutch and by hand lever on the handlebar. Consigner states the foot shifter could use a little tweaking. A Porsche 12-volt generator is mounted using an Indian 641 mount but it is not hooked up and will eventually be driven by a V belt off the right angle to the gearbox. The only wiring currently is to start and operate the motor.

Consigner states that test rides have rendered good results and the bike handles well at speeds but is fairly heavy when stopped. Fuel and expansion tanks are only temporary and are mounted next to the carb.

So, for this custom build still in progress you will need to:
Hook up lights and charging system.
Add an electric water pump and place it under the transmission
Add an expansion tank
Put on a clutch cover and chain guard
The shifter design needs to be redone.

This wild beast in V8 form is a true custom bike like none other. Utilizing mostly Indian vintage parts to come together and create a one of a kind motorcycle that only a few will have the opportunity to experience. Will one of those people be you? Visit the hallowed halls of Classic Auto Mall, and you never know what you will ride away with!

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.