Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners and independent mechanics specializing in vintage motorcycles.
Competitors 1972:
Indian Chief (less prevalent), Triumph Bonneville, BSA Gold Star, and other American V-twins.
Heritage:
Represents a significant era in Harley-Davidson's evolution with the introduction of the Shovelhead engine.
Design:
Iconic American cruiser styling, known for its robust construction and distinctive sound.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and tuning of the Shovelhead V-twin engine.
Transmission:
Covering the 4-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, gear engagement, and final drive.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for ignition, lighting, charging, and accessories.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Linkert or early Keihin models) overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting, as well as fuel tank and lines.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, hydraulic adjustments, and component replacement (drum brakes typically).
Suspension:
Front fork (leading-link or conventional) and rear swingarm suspension service, including oil changes and component replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis maintenance, frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, and fairing (if equipped) service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication points, filter changes, spark plug replacement, and general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair, replacement, and overhaul of all major motorcycle systems.
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and critical clearances.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for ignition timing, carburetor tuning, and electrical system checks.
Rebuild Completeness:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston ring gap, bearing clearances, and valve seating.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized Harley-Davidson tools required for specific repairs.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1213 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 7.2:1 to 8.0:1 depending on specific configuration.
Cylinder Heads:
Cast iron heads with integral manifolds.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled.
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 60-65 HP @ 5000 RPM
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 75-80 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM
Carburetor Type:
Linkert M74 or early Keihin butterfly carburetor.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating typically 91+ (RON/MON).
Oil System:
Total loss oiling system (pre-1975 models) requiring fresh oil mixed with fuel or separate oil tank with pump.
Safety Standards:
No formal crash ratings as per modern standards; focus on mechanical integrity and rider control.
Braking System:
Typically dual leading shoe drum brakes front and rear for this era.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (often optional or less prominent than modern bikes).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000 - 3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles, or as needed based on condition.
Chain Lubrication:
Frequent lubrication of primary and final drive chains is critical, often every 500 miles or after washing.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent API CD/SE rated oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) for the Shovelhead engine.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (check manual for specific caliper type).
Oil Leaks:
Common due to aging seals and gaskets, particularly at the cylinder base, pushrod tubes, and transmission seals.
Carburetor Tuning:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment for optimal performance.
Ignition Timing:
Requires careful setting of ignition timing using points and condenser for proper engine operation.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and loose connections in older wiring harnesses can lead to electrical issues.
Founder Information:
Founded by William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, and William A. Davidson.
Predecessor:
Panhead FL series.
Engine Introduction:
Shovelhead engine introduced in 1966, evolving through the late 1960s and into the 1970s.
Electra Glide Origin:
The Electra Glide name first appeared in 1965, marking a shift towards larger touring motorcycles.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Era Significance:
Represents Harley-Davidson's resilience and dominance in the American motorcycle market during a period of Japanese competition.
