Market Segment:
Flagship touring motorcycle, iconic American cruiser.
Competitors:
Competed with other large displacement American and European touring motorcycles of the era. Key competitor was the Indian Chief prior to its discontinuation.
Key Features:
Shovelhead engine, large touring fairing, comfortable seating for two, ample luggage capacity (often with saddlebags and tour-pak), rider-focused ergonomics.
Engine:
1200cc (74 cu in) Shovelhead V-twin engine: disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery.
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh gearbox: overhaul, clutch service, shifting mechanisms, lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Primary drive, final drive chain, sprockets, clutch components.
Electrical:
Ignition system (points and condenser), charging system (generator/regulator), lighting, starter motor, wiring diagrams, battery service.
Fuel System:
Carburetion (e.g., Linkert, Keihin models), fuel tanks, fuel lines, fuel filters.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems: hydraulic and mechanical components, adjustment, fluid specifications, caliper/drum servicing.
Suspension:
Front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on specific sub-model variation), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection and repair, body panel alignment, fairing (if equipped), seat mounting, fender service.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel types, spokes, tire maintenance, pressure recommendations, wheel balancing.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake checks, spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues, symptom-based problem solving.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications for worn parts.
Installation:
Guidance on installing common aftermarket or replacement parts, if applicable.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts.
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts.
Specifications:
Provides detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and fluid capacities.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
1200cc (74 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.31 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by year/spec)
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (rated at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs (rated at crankshaft)
Carburetor:
Typically Linkert M-series or early Keihin butterfly type.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended, higher if available).
Oil System:
Dry sump lubrication system with oil tank separate from the crankcase.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent API SG, SF, or SE rated oil. For engines with separate oil tanks, always use a dedicated motorcycle oil with ZDDP additive for proper flat-tappet camshaft lubrication.
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil system with points and condenser.
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched.
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this era and model.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated.
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 or equivalent motorcycle transmission oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 gear oil for some components, check manual for specific recommendations).
Safety Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings (NHTSA, Euro NCAP) applicable to motorcycles of this era. Safety features are mechanical and rider-dependent.
Active Safety:
Effective braking system (disc front, drum rear typically), stability due to weight and chassis design.
Passive Safety:
Robust steel frame, rider protection relies heavily on protective gear (helmet, jacket, etc.).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or 3-4 months (check manual for precise recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-12,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type).
Ignition Timing Check:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or as needed for performance issues.
Chain Adjustment:
Every 1,000-1,500 miles or when slack exceeds specified amount.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent API SG/SF/SE with ZDDP.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 gear oil (confirm for specific gearbox components).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (confirm manual for specific type, as fluid types can vary and mix-ability is critical).
Known Issues:
Shovelhead engines are known for oil leaks due to seal designs of the era. Ignition points can require frequent adjustment. Carburetor tuning can be sensitive. Generator charging systems can be less efficient than modern alternators. Shifting may be clunky by modern standards.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is a legendary American motorcycle manufacturer known for its iconic V-twin engines and robust, long-distance touring capabilities.
Evolution:
The Electra Glide lineage began in 1965 as the Electra-Glide FLH, evolving from the Duo-Glide. The introduction of the Shovelhead engine in 1966 marked a significant upgrade. The Super Glide designation was introduced in 1971, often featuring a more stripped-down, custom look compared to the full-dress Electra Glide, though both shared the Shovelhead platform and components.
Production Period:
1970-1972 (covering the specific years of this manual)
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
