🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FL Shovelhead

Year:

1979

Generation Designation:

Shovelhead Era

Vin Prefix:

1HD1

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Classic American V-Twin Cruiser

Competitors 1979:

Other Harley-Davidson models, Indian (less prominent), and potentially some custom choppers of the era.

Vehicle Appeal:

Iconic Shovelhead engine, classic styling, strong V-twin rumble, a cornerstone of motorcycle culture.

Manual Benefit:

Essential resource for maintaining, repairing, and restoring a vintage Harley-Davidson FL Shovelhead, preserving its iconic status and performance.

Target Users:

Harley-Davidson FL Shovelhead owners, mechanics, restorers, and enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for 1979 Harley-Davidson FL Shovelhead motorcycles.

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and torque specifications.

Estimated Pages:

300-500 (typical for this era's factory service manuals, actual may vary for PDF)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, top-end (cylinder heads, valves, pistons, rings), bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings), timing, lubrication system.

Transmission:

4-speed gearbox, clutch assembly, primary drive, shifter linkage, lubrication.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely a Keihin Butterfly or Linkert), fuel lines, fuel tank, petcock, fuel pump (if applicable).

Electrical System:

Ignition system (points and condenser or early electronic), battery, charging system (generator/alternator, regulator), lighting, starter, horn, wiring diagrams.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes, potentially early disc front), master cylinders, brake lines, calipers, pads/shoes.

Suspension:

Front fork (leading axle, possibly hydraulic damping), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm pivot, wheel alignment.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, exhaust system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, lubrication points, tire pressure checks.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic flowcharts, electrical system testing, engine performance checks.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.

Reassembly:

Detailed reassembly instructions with critical torque specifications and assembly sequences.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and carburetor tuning.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to specific information.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing, ensuring legibility of text and diagrams.

Binding Type Digital:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type Digital:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

Engine Configuration:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin

Displacement:

73.77 cu in (1209 cc)

Bore:

3.4375 in (87.31 mm)

Stroke:

4.25 in (107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by specific FL model and factory tuning)

Horsepower Approx:

60-70 HP (at crank, estimated, as factory figures were not always precise or standardized)

Torque Approx:

75-85 ft-lbs (at crank, estimated)

Carburetor Type:

Harley-Davidson Linkert (earlier models) or Keihin Butterfly (common from mid-70s onwards for FL)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum recommended.

Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV)

Cylinder Construction:

Cast iron cylinders, aluminum alloy heads.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot shift, hand clutch.

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 1979 FL Shovelhead; 4-speed was standard.

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain in oil bath primary case.

Final Drive:

Belt drive or chain drive depending on specific FL sub-model.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + (or equivalent 80W-90 gear oil, check manual for specifics)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Length:

Approximately 92.3 inches (2344 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 630-650 lbs (286-295 kg) depending on accessories.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically specified by Harley-Davidson for this era in the same way as cars, but implies rider and cargo capacity.

Cargo Capacity:

Minimal; often supplemented with saddlebags or luggage racks.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings as understood for cars do not apply in the same manner).

Active Safety Features:

Mechanical braking systems.

Passive Safety Features:

Durable frame construction, rider skill and awareness.

Recalls:

Potential recalls for specific components would be detailed in manufacturer service bulletins, not typically covered in a standard service manual.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

None typically installed from the factory. Basic analogue instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer if equipped, oil pressure light, neutral indicator).

Driver Assistance Features:

None.

Connectivity Features:

None.

Headlight Type:

Halogen sealed beam (standard).

Ignition System Type:

Mechanical points and condenser, or early electronic ignition systems might have been retrofitted.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months (check specific manual for exact recommendation).

Primary Chain Tensioner Check:

Regular checks recommended, often around 5,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 (or equivalent, check manual for specific API rating).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4 US quarts (3.8 L).

Primary Chain Case Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent 80W-90 gear oil.

Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:

Approximately 1 US quart (0.95 L).

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approximately 1 US pint (0.47 L).

Common Shovelhead Issues:

Oil leaks (especially from rocker boxes and crankcase seals), oil consumption, carburation issues (linkert or early keihin), points ignition tuning sensitivity, exhaust leaks, potential for oiling issues due to original design limitations.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Diligent adherence to lubrication schedules, regular tuning of ignition and carburetion, proactive replacement of worn seals to combat leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and most iconic motorcycle manufacturers in the world, known for its V-twin engines and American cruiser styling.

Shovelhead Introduction:

The Shovelhead engine replaced the Panhead engine in 1966 and was produced until 1984, evolving through various configurations and displacements.

Fl Designation:

The 'FL' designation typically refers to Harley-Davidson's large frame models with the 74 cubic inch (1200cc) engine, often associated with the Electra Glide and other touring/cruiser variants.

Production Period:

1966-1984 (Shovelhead engine); 1979 is a key year within this period.

Cultural Significance:

The Shovelhead era is deeply embedded in motorcycle culture, representing a period of American manufacturing strength and evolving motorcycle design, often associated with freedom and rebellion.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

The Shovelhead engine itself is an icon in motorcycle history, and the FL models of this era are celebrated for their classic styling and enduring appeal among collectors and riders.

Owner Satisfaction:

High among enthusiasts who appreciate vintage motorcycles and the unique riding experience. Requires dedicated maintenance.

Emission Certifications:

Pre-dates modern stringent emission control regulations; focus would be on basic mechanical function and tune.