🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FX 1200

Year:

1979

Model Generation:

Shovelhead Era

Vin Decoder Note:

VIN decoding for 1979 Harley-Davidson models is specific to the era and typically involves a 9-character code.

👋 Introduction

Motorcycle Segment:

Cruiser / American V-Twin

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, restoration specialists, enthusiasts.

Contemporary Competitors:

Various models from Indian Motorcycle (though less prominent in '79), custom builders, and high-performance Japanese motorcycles attempting cruiser styling.

Model Distinction:

Represents the evolving Shovelhead platform, a pivotal era for Harley-Davidson as it navigated ownership changes and market pressures. Known for its iconic V-twin rumble and robust build.

Manual Significance:

Essential for preserving the originality and functionality of a classic American motorcycle. Provides factory-correct procedures for maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (Likely Original or High-Quality Reprint)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for this era's factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, component identification, lubrication, cooling, timing, ignition, fuel delivery, exhaust.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, primary drive, final drive, chain maintenance, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system components (coil, points, condenser), battery, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, horn, switches.

Chassis Suspension Brakes:

Front fork service, rear suspension (shocks), wheel bearing replacement, brake system (hydraulic/mechanical) maintenance and repair, caliper service, master cylinder.

Frame Bodywork Controls:

Frame inspection, mounting points, fuel tank removal and installation, seat, handlebars, controls (throttle, clutch, brake levers), footpegs, fenders.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, lubrication points, tire pressure checks, brake fluid checks.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and operational anomalies.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, fork rebuilds, electrical system repairs, brake caliper rebuilds.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling key components like carburetors, distributors (if applicable), generators.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

N/A (Assuming Print Format, but if digital, expect clear, searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams)

Diagram Resolution:

Original factory quality, featuring clear, detailed line drawings and exploded views.

Binding:

Likely original perfect binding or saddle-stitched for manuals, or durable spiral/ring binding for shop manuals.

Paper Quality:

Heavy-duty paper stock designed for shop environments, resistant to grease and oil.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, four-stroke

Displacement:

1200 cc (74 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

Approximately 3.4375 in. x 4.00 in. (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically around 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 for stock engines.

Horsepower:

Approximate factory rating around 55-60 HP (varies with specific tuning and model variant).

Torque:

Approximate factory rating around 65-70 ft-lbs.

Carburetor:

Typically a single Keihin butterfly carburetor (e.g., CV type) or sometimes a Linkert carburetor on earlier models/variants.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (RON+MON)/2. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Oil System Type:

Dry Sump (oil tank is separate from the crankcase).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for engine and oil tank combined. Exact capacity specified in manual.

Ignition Type:

Contact breaker points, coil, distributor (may vary by specific model sub-variant).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh manual gearbox

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this model year and specification.

Primary Drive:

Hy-Vo chain, enclosed in a primary drive cover.

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil type, typically SAE 80W-90 gear oil for the transmission and primary chaincase.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)

Overall Length:

Approximately 89.0 inches (2260 mm)

Dry Weight:

Around 570-600 lbs (258-272 kg), depending on specific FX model variant.

Fuel Capacity:

Approximately 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters)

Front Tire Size:

Typically 3.50-19 or similar.

Rear Tire Size:

Typically 4.00-18 or 5.00-16, depending on the FX model variant (e.g., Super Glide).

Wheel Type:

Spoked wheels, typically 19-inch front and 16-inch or 18-inch rear.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash testing like passenger cars).

Braking System:

Front disc brake, rear drum brake (standard for FX models of this era). Some later FX variants or custom builds may have dual discs or rear discs.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (operation and maintenance covered).

Frame Construction:

Steel tubular frame designed for stability and rider support.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (This era of motorcycle predates integrated infotainment systems. Features are limited to essential controls and instrumentation.)

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A (No electronic driver assistance systems.)

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No digital connectivity features.)

Dashboard Instruments:

Speedometer, odometer, tachometer (optional or model dependent), indicator lights (oil pressure, neutral, turn signals).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition.

Chain Adjustment Lubrication:

Inspect and adjust chain tension every 500-1,000 miles. Lubricate chain regularly with appropriate chain lube.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommended 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil. Check manual for exact specification and viscosity based on ambient temperature.

Primary Chain Lubricant:

Separate from engine oil. Typically SAE 50 or SAE 90 gear oil. Consult manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (if equipped with disc brakes).

Shovelhead Engine Quirks:

Oil leaks (common in Shovelheads), carburetor tuning sensitivity, potential for valve guide wear, pushrod adjustment checks, ignition timing precision.

Electrical System Concerns:

Aging wiring harnesses, battery charging system reliability, switchgear wear.

Frame And Suspension Checks:

Wear in steering head bearings, fork seals, and rear shock bushings. Frame integrity checks for stress cracks.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding Date:

1903

Brand Identity:

Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, synonymous with freedom, individuality, and V-twin power.

Fx Series Introduction:

The FX designation (initially for 'Factory Experimental') was introduced in the late 1960s to denote models combining the Electra Glide's FL chassis with the smaller, lighter big twin engine from the FL models. The FX 1200 ('Super Glide') was a significant model, introducing a more 'custom' look.

Shovelhead Era:

The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was Harley-Davidson's primary big twin engine through the 1970s and early 1980s, evolving from the Panhead and Knucklehead generations. 1979 marks a later stage of this engine's development.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Key Ownership Period:

By 1979, Harley-Davidson was under the AMF (American Machine and Foundry) ownership, a period often characterized by both production increases and quality control challenges, making factory service manuals even more critical.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

While specific awards for the 1979 FX 1200 model are not typically documented like automotive awards, this model is recognized as a significant iteration in Harley-Davidson's Shovelhead era, a period crucial for the brand's survival and evolution. It's celebrated by enthusiasts for its classic styling and V-twin character.

Enthusiast Ratings:

Highly regarded by collectors and riders for its vintage appeal and the raw riding experience it offers. Often a basis for custom builds and restorations.