Segment:
Flagship touring motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information
Historical Competitors:
Other large-displacement touring bikes from American and European manufacturers, though Harley-Davidson held a unique market position.
Model Identity:
The Electra Glide Super Glide was a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's touring line, synonymous with American motorcycling culture and long-distance comfort.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-level information crucial for preserving the longevity and performance of a classic Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
Engine Systems:
Cylinder heads, cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, camshaft, valvetrain, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled adjustments)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin butterfly or similar), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel pump (if applicable)
Ignition System:
Points and condenser, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing, advance mechanism, wiring
Transmission System:
4-speed constant mesh gearbox, clutch, primary drive, secondary drive (belt or chain), gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork (leading-axle type), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, triple clamps
Braking System:
Front disc brake (caliper, rotor, master cylinder, fluid), rear drum brake (shoe adjustment, linkage)
Bodywork And Trim:
Fuel tank, fenders, fairing (if equipped), saddlebags, seat, handlebars, controls, fairing components
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/belt adjustment, lubrication points, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks, battery maintenance
Troubleshooting Guidelines:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, clutch adjustment/replacement, brake caliper rebuild, fork seal replacement, carburetor tuning, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve lash adjustment, ignition timing, carburetor idle and mixture, clutch cable, brake linkages, suspension preload
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, part numbers for wear items
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Family:
Shovelhead (evolution of the Panhead design, characterized by its 'shovel' shaped rocker boxes)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1211 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 (stock)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-65 HP (at crank, stock)
Torque:
Estimated 70-75 ft-lbs (at crank, stock)
Carburetor Type:
Likely a Keihin butterfly carburetor (e.g., CV or Linkert on earlier models, though 1980 would be post-Linkert transition)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline, typically 87 octane (AKI) or higher
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift, hand clutch
Primary Drive:
Multi-plate dry clutch, chain drive to transmission
Secondary Drive:
Belt drive to rear wheel
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: ~2.44, 2nd: ~1.77, 3rd: ~1.34, 4th: 1.00)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Likely Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check specific manual for OEM spec)
Audio System:
Optional factory or aftermarket AM/FM radio with CB/Intercom capabilities, typically integrated into the fairing.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), oil pressure gauge, ammeter, fuel gauge, indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, oil pressure.
Assistance Systems:
None (Era-appropriate features only)
Connectivity Features:
None (Era-appropriate features only)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Specific recommendations are in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact interval.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Regular checks and adjustments are critical for primary drive longevity.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 motorcycle-specific oil (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendation and compatibility)
Shifter Pawl Wear:
Potential wear on the shifter pawl mechanism in the transmission, leading to difficulty shifting or false neutrals.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
The automatic tensioner design on early models could wear, requiring manual adjustment or replacement with later-style tensioners.
Carburetor Tuning:
Shovelhead carburetors often require periodic fine-tuning for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Oil Leaks:
Characteristic of Shovelhead engines; diligent maintenance of seals and gaskets is important.
