Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops specializing in classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles from the 1970-1978 era.
Value Proposition:
Provides the definitive factory-level repair and maintenance data for these iconic Shovelhead-era motorcycles, enabling accurate servicing and restoration.
Alternatives:
Generic aftermarket repair guides, community-sourced forums, older printed manuals which may be rare or incomplete.
Completeness:
Complete factory service manual coverage, eliminating the need to piece together information from multiple sources.
Accessibility:
Instant PDF download provides immediate access to critical technical information without shipping delays or expiry.
Engine Variants:
Shovelhead Engine (74 cu in / 1200cc, 80 cu in / 1300cc - specifically for FLH models post-1970)
Model Variants:
FL (Electra Glide), FLH (Electra Glide High Performance), FX (Super Glide), FXE (Super Glide Electric Start), FXS (Low Rider)
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typical factory service manuals for this era are comprehensive, often exceeding 500 pages, though exact count varies by edition and format)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head assembly, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and flywheel assembly, camshaft installation, oil pump assembly, timing procedures, valve train adjustment.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (points, condenser, coils), charging system (generator/alternator, regulator), starter system, lighting system, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul and adjustment (e.g., Keihin butterfly, Linkert), fuel tank and lines, fuel filters, fuel pump operation (if applicable).
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission (e.g., Harley-Davidson 4-speed kicker/foot shift, later electric start models), clutch operation and adjustment, gear shift mechanism, primary drive system, chain adjustment.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork assembly (leading axle, later FLH forks), rear shock absorber and swingarm maintenance, wheel bearing service, steering head bearing adjustment.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake assembly (drum brakes typically, early disc brakes on some models), brake fluid specifications, brake shoe replacement, brake linkage adjustment.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender installation and alignment, fuel tank mounting, seat assembly, exhaust system installation, saddlebag mounting (if applicable), fairing (on FLH models) maintenance.
Lubrication And Fluids:
Engine oil specifications, transmission oil specifications, primary chaincase oil specifications, grease points and lubrication schedule.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug inspection and replacement, battery maintenance, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common running issues, electrical problems, and mechanical failures. Fault finding based on symptoms.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation for all major systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values for critical fasteners, engine timing specifications, valve clearances, electrical resistance values, fluid capacities.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level service and repair information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed internal component work and diagnostics.
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement Options:
74 cubic inches (1200cc), 80 cubic inches (1300cc - typically for FLH models from 1970 onwards)
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 55-65 HP (varies by specific model and tuning)
Torque Est:
Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (varies by specific model and tuning)
Carburetor Types:
Keihin butterfly (e.g., H31, H40), Linkert (early production, less common in this range)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (post-1971 requirement)
Type:
4-Speed Manual Constant Mesh
Operation:
Foot shift (kick starter standard on most models, electric start optional/standard on FLH/FXE/FXS)
Type:
N/A for this period, 4-speed was standard across the board.
Primary Drive:
Enclosed primary drive with wet clutch, chain driven.
Transmission Fluid:
Typically Harley-Davidson transmission oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 gear oil or specific primary chaincase lubricant)
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Chaincase Inspection:
Check and adjust chain tension every 2,000-3,000 miles. Oil change annually.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 2,000 miles, replace as needed.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 motorcycle oil or equivalent API SG or higher rated oil.
Transmission Oil:
API GL-4 SAE 80W-90 gear oil or Harley-Davidson Transmission Lube.
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or similar primary drive specific oil.
Carburetor Leaks:
Diaphragm failure or gasket leaks in Keihin or Linkert carburetors.
Oil Leaks:
Common due to aging gaskets, seals, and O-rings in the engine and transmission. Manual provides procedures for sealing.
Shifter Mechanism Wear:
Wear in the shift drum and pawls can lead to difficult shifting or false neutrals.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, failing voltage regulators, and ignition points can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, an American icon with a rich history dating back to 1903, known for its V-twin motorcycles.
Shovelhead Era:
The 1970s marked a significant period for Harley-Davidson with the prevalence of the Shovelhead engine, a successor to the Panhead.
Model Lineup Changes:
Introduction of the FX Super Glide with its integrated frame/fork design, evolution of the FL Electra Glide series with increased power and touring features, and the debut of the FXS Low Rider.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
