Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycles, representing Harley-Davidson's flagship models of the era.
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts of the 1978-1980 era Electra Glide and Super Glide models.
Competitors:
At the time, primarily other American motorcycle manufacturers and emerging Japanese touring models, though Harley-Davidson occupied a unique niche in terms of style and heritage.
Touring Capability:
Designed for long-distance comfort and luggage carrying, especially the Electra Glide with its fairing and saddlebags.
Heritage Design:
Embodiment of classic American V-twin motorcycle design and sound.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the Shovelhead V-twin engine, including assembly, disassembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly, Linkert), fuel lines, fuel pump operation, and troubleshooting.
Ignition System:
Points ignition system, timing procedures, coil, spark plug specifications, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, and internal components.
Drive Train:
Primary drive (chain/belt), final drive (belt/chain), and belt tensioning/adjustment.
Suspension:
Front fork (e.g., hydraulic damping, gaiters), rear shock absorbers, and suspension tuning.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes with optional disc front for later models), hydraulic components, and adjustment procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, and accessories.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame components, fairing (Electra Glide), saddlebags, fenders, and mounting hardware.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire specifications, and pressure recommendations.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly instructions.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch adjustment, transmission disassembly, gear replacement, and reassembly.
Brake Service:
Brake shoe replacement, drum/disc resurfacing, caliper service (if applicable), and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, voltage testing, and continuity checks.
Suspension Rebuild:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, and related component adjustments.
Carburetor Tuning:
Adjusting fuel-air mixture, idle speed, and troubleshooting carburetor performance issues.
Ignition Timing:
Setting ignition timing using timing marks and a timing light.
Wheel Alignment:
Checking and adjusting wheel alignment where applicable.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Charts:
Likely includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts for identifying and resolving various problems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement Cc:
1200 cc (approx. 74 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
Typical: 3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 7.0:1 to 7.5:1 (varies slightly by year/model)
Horsepower Hp:
Estimated 55-65 HP (at the crank, varies by tuning and specific configuration)
Torque Ft Lbs:
Estimated 65-75 ft-lbs (at the crank, varies by tuning and specific configuration)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin Butterfly CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor; some earlier models might retain Linkert or other options.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (or higher if recommended).
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 3 quarts (engine oil and primary drive oil are often integrated or separate, check manual for specifics).
Oil Type:
Motorcycle-specific 20W50 or 10W40 conventional oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications of the era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or annually.
Primary Chain Tension:
Check and adjust primary chain tension at regular intervals, often coinciding with oil changes.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Inspect spark plugs every 2,000-3,000 miles; replace as needed.
Belt Tension Check:
Check final drive belt tension and condition regularly.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50 recommended for general use; 10W40 for colder climates. Consult manual for specific HD grades.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Specific Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil Type:
HD Transmission Lubricant or a suitable GL-5 gear oil; consult manual for exact specification.
Shifter Pawl Spring:
Known to fatigue and break, leading to shifting issues or the inability to shift gears.
Oil Leaks:
Common from various seals and gaskets due to age and material degradation.
Points Ignition Tuning:
Requires periodic adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance.
Carburetor Percolation:
Can occur on hot-running engines, leading to fuel overflow.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, established 1903, iconic American motorcycle manufacturer.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide, introduced in 1965, became the benchmark for American touring motorcycles, evolving from the Duo-Glide with its electric starter and integrated fairing.
Super Glide Lineage:
The Super Glide, introduced in 1971, was a more stripped-down, sport-oriented custom cruiser that shared many components with the touring models but offered a different aesthetic.
Production Period:
These models represent the later years of the Shovelhead engine era before the introduction of the Evolution engine.
