🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide FXS

Year:

1972

Model Code:

FXS

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Cruiser Motorcycle

Positioning 1972:

The Super Glide FXS was Harley-Davidson's attempt to compete in the emerging 'superbike' category, offering more performance and modern styling than their traditional models.

Competitors Era:

European and Japanese motorcycles with multi-cylinder engines and sportier handling.

Engine Configuration:

Shovelhead V-twin engine.

Frame Design:

Unique cast aluminum frame, contributing to its distinctive look and handling.

Styling:

Distinctive 'boat tail' rear section and integrated fairing.

Value:

Essential reference for maintaining, troubleshooting, and restoring the iconic 1972 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXS.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (assumed based on description, actual product may vary)

Intended Audience:

Mechanics and DIY persons

Coverage Scope:

Repair and adjustment of Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXS 1972

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the entire engine assembly.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, charging system, starting system, and wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the gearbox and clutch.

Fuel System:

Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and rebuild procedures; fuel tank and lines.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system maintenance, repair, and adjustments.

Suspension:

Front fork service and rear shock absorber maintenance.

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, component mounting, and alignment.

Bodywork:

Fenders, tank, seat, and other body component installation and adjustment.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, turn signals, and other lighting components.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel bearing service, tire pressure recommendations.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues and symptoms.

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling all major components.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine, transmission, and other assemblies.

Adjustment Calibration:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, and other calibration procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for fault finding and repairs.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Level:

Detailed troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

Physical Printed Manual

Print Quality:

Typically good quality for factory-produced manuals, with clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Likely a professional bound or spiral-bound format for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, often coated paper to resist grease and shop wear.

Page Count:

Estimated 300-600 pages, typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era.

Illustrations:

Likely includes detailed line drawings and diagrams for component identification and assembly procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin

Displacement Cu In:

74 cu in

Displacement Cc:

1207 cc

Bore X Stroke In:

3.4375 in x 4.00 in

Horsepower Est Bhp:

Approximately 60-65 bhp (varies with tuning and model specifics).

Torque Est Lb Ft:

Approximately 70-75 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (varies).

Carburetor:

Typically a single Linkert M74 or later Tillotson HR-112A carburetor (specific to model variant).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (octane rating as per original specification or modern equivalent).

Ignition Type:

Battery and coil, breaker points ignition.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Dry, multi-plate

Drive Type:

Chain drive to rear wheel

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual; typical for the era's performance focus.

Transmission Fluid:

Specifications for transmission oil will be found in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

Approximately 60.5 inches (specific to FXS model variant).

Length In:

Approximately 90 inches (specific to FXS model variant).

Width In:

Varies, typically around 36 inches at handlebars.

Dry Weight Lbs:

Approximately 515 lbs (specific to FXS model variant).

Fuel Capacity Gal:

Typically 3.5 US gallons (including reserve).

Oil Capacity Qt:

Approximately 4.0 US quarts (including filter).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards Era:

Motorcycle safety standards were less stringent than today; manual focuses on mechanical integrity and operational safety.

Braking System:

Dual leading shoe front drum brake, single leading shoe rear drum brake. Manual details inspection and adjustment.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, stop light, and turn signals (where equipped). Manual covers maintenance and bulb replacement.

Frame Construction:

Cast aluminum frame provides rigidity. Manual covers frame inspection for integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Not applicable. This is a 1972 motorcycle; technology is mechanical and electrical.

Driver Assistance Features:

Not applicable. Focus is on rider control.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable. Mechanical and electrical systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 2,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (as per original service recommendations). Manual will provide definitive intervals.

Tune Up Interval:

Typically every 4,000-6,000 miles, involving ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and spark plug service.

Primary Chain Adjust:

As needed, often checked during regular service.

Engine Oil Type:

Motorcycle-specific V-twin oil, likely SAE 20W-50 or similar viscosity (manual will specify exact type and grade, e.g., Harley-Davidson Genuine Oil or equivalent).

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Specific Harley-Davidson primary chain case lubricant or equivalent.

Transmission Oil:

Gear oil, viscosity and type to be confirmed in the manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for hydraulic systems (if applicable to specific components, though drum brakes are more common).

Shifter Pawl:

Wear in the shifter pawl can lead to shifting problems. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

Oil Leaks:

Common with Shovelhead engines due to seal aging. Manual addresses seal replacement.

Carburetor Tuning:

Linkert carburetors require careful tuning for optimal performance. Manual provides adjustment procedures.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion and loose connections can cause intermittent electrical issues. Manual details wiring checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Founding:

Harley-Davidson Motor Company founded in 1903.

Iconic Models:

Known for iconic models like the Knucklehead, Panhead, Shovelhead, and Sportster.

Fx Series Introduction:

The FX series was introduced in 1971 as a new platform, with the FXS Super Glide being one of its initial flagship models.

Shovelhead Engine:

The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was a development of the Panhead engine and powered Harley-Davidsons through the 1970s and early 1980s.

Production Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Fxs Production Years:

The FXS Super Glide was produced from 1971 to 1978, with various iterations.

Collectible Status:

The 1972 FXS Super Glide is highly collectible, especially in original or well-restored condition, due to its unique styling and early FX platform status.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Historical:

While specific awards for the 1972 FXS might be scarce in modern databases, it was recognized for its innovative design and performance at the time, aiming to challenge European and Japanese competitors.

Collectible Recognition:

Regarded as a milestone in Harley-Davidson's evolution and a desirable classic motorcycle.