Motorcycle Segment:
Custom cruiser, chopper culture icon
Competitors Era:
Direct competitor to other American V-twin motorcycles, offering a distinct styling and performance package
Vehicle Defining Attributes:
Distinctive 'Super Glide' styling, powerful Shovelhead engine, iconic Harley-Davidson rumble, customisable platform
Engine Vibration Control:
Details on engine mounting and isolation to mitigate vibration transferred to the rider.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, carburetor, ignition system, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled specific)
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh, clutch operation, gearshift linkage, primary drive maintenance
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering system, wheel bearings, braking system (front and rear drum brakes)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (generator/alternator), ignition system components, starter motor, battery maintenance
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat assembly, handlebars, control cables, exhaust system, footpegs, side stand
Wheel And Tire Service:
Information on wheel truing, spoke replacement, tire mounting and dismounting, and recommended tire pressures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine component disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhauls, carburetor rebuild, fork seal replacement, brake component servicing
Diagnostics:
Ignition timing adjustments, carburetor tuning, compression testing
Carburetor Tuning And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for adjusting, cleaning, and rebuilding the stock carburetor for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Ignition Timing Adjustment:
Precise procedures for setting ignition timing using a timing light or other specified methods for correct engine operation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures, detailed specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, diagnostic charts
Torque Specifications:
Extensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Special Tool Identification:
Identification and usage instructions for any specialized Harley-Davidson tools required for specific repair procedures.
Document Format:
Printed book
Searchability:
As a printed manual, it relies on an index; digital versions (if available) would offer keyword search.
Paper And Binding:
Durable paper stock, likely saddle-stitched or perfect bound for workshop use
Binding:
Likely a sturdy, workshop-friendly binding suitable for repeated use
Paper Quality:
Heavy-duty, possibly coated paper to resist grease and shop grime
Engine Description:
1340cc (82 cubic inches) air-cooled, OHV, 45-degree V-twin 'Shovelhead' engine
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, typical for the era)
Torque Estimate:
High torque output, characteristic of Harley-Davidson V-twins
Carburetor:
Typically a single Keihin butterfly or Linkert carburetor (specific model may vary)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil ignition, often with breaker points
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered as an option for this model year, 4-speed was standard.
Primary Drive:
Chain drive, enclosed in a primary chaincase
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity will be detailed in the manual)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 62 inches (1575 mm)
Overall Length:
Approximately 88-90 inches (2235-2286 mm)
Seat Height:
Approximately 27-29 inches (686-737 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 560-600 lbs (254-272 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 900-950 lbs (408-431 kg)
Safety Standards Era:
Motorcycle safety standards were less stringent than modern vehicles; manual will focus on functional safety aspects.
Braking System:
Front and rear drum brakes
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame for rigidity and rider protection
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, but consult manual for precise recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Regularly, depending on riding conditions; manual will specify slack requirements.
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity and type (e.g., 20W-50 motorcycle oil) as specified by Harley-Davidson for the Shovelhead engine. Common is SAE 50 or 20W-50.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters), including primary chaincase oil if separate or shared.
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Specific Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle oil.
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, piston rings, carburetor adjustments, primary chain tension, electrical connections, brake adjustments due to drum wear.
Shovlehead Specific Considerations:
Oil leaks are common in Shovelhead engines due to seal design; proper maintenance is key.
Example Filter Part Number:
Manual will contain specific part numbers for filters, gaskets, and other consumables relevant to 1978 models.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Continuation of the storied Harley-Davidson lineage, known for American-made motorcycles and V-twin performance.
Fx Series Development:
The FX series, introduced in the early 1970s, was designed as a more versatile 'custom' styled motorcycle, blending elements of the FL dresser and XL Sportster lines.
Production Period:
1970s and beyond, with continuous evolution of the FX platform.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
