Historical Context:
The 1970 Super Glide represented Harley-Davidson's evolving performance and styling in the late 60s/early 70s cruiser market.
Competitors:
Competed with other large-displacement American V-twins and emerging Japanese motorcycles.
Model Distinctiveness:
Known for its distinctive styling, robust engine, and custom cruiser aesthetic.
Purpose:
Essential for owners and mechanics to maintain, repair, and restore this iconic motorcycle.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, maintenance, and adjustments
User Type:
Mechanics and DIY enthusiasts
Estimated Pages:
Varies by edition, typically 200-400 pages for this era's manuals
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the Shovelhead engine (e.g., FLH, FX variations)
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission service, including gear inspection, bearing replacement, and shifting mechanism adjustments
Clutch:
Clutch assembly removal, installation, adjustment, and component wear analysis
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert, Keihin) overhaul, tuning, fuel lines, and fuel tank servicing
Ignition System:
Ignition points, condenser, spark plugs, timing procedures, and coil testing
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits, battery maintenance, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, and switches
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper servicing, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, and drum brake adjustments (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front fork (e.g., leading link, telescopic) disassembly, rebuilding, oil changes, and rear shock absorber servicing
Frame And Body:
Frame inspection, fender and tank mounting, seat assembly, and control cable routing
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, spoke tensioning, tire pressure specifications, and rim servicing
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacement, and basic adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common performance issues, starting problems, and electrical faults
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls and repairs
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete breakdown and reassembly guidance for all major vehicle systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, specifications for critical components
Diagrams Illustrations:
Exploded views, wiring diagrams, and schematic illustrations
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Family:
Shovelhead (introduced in 1966, with 1970 models featuring early configurations)
Displacement:
Typically 1200cc (74 cubic inches), with some variations possible
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-65 HP (may vary based on tuning and specific model variant)
Torque:
Estimated 70-75 ft-lbs (may vary based on tuning and specific model variant)
Carburetor:
Often equipped with a Linkert M-series or early Keihin butterfly carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common, unleaded is recommended for longevity with modern fuels)
Oil System:
Dry sump lubrication system with an oil tank separate from the crankcase
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Manual will specify exact intervals.
Tune Up:
Points and condenser service, spark plug replacement often recommended every 3,000-6,000 miles.
Wheel Bearings:
Inspection and lubrication recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Viscosity: SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations). Type: Motorcycle-specific (contains ZDDP). Capacity: Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters) including oil tank.
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or HD spec) - Capacity typically around 1 pint (0.5 liters).
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Motorcycle-specific oil (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or specialized primary fluid). Capacity around 1 quart (0.9 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (for disc brake models). Drum brake models do not use hydraulic fluid.
Engine Wear:
Valve guide wear, oil leaks, piston ring wear, and timing chain/tensioner issues are common with age and mileage.
Electrical Reliability:
Aging wiring, failing voltage regulators (if equipped), and worn ignition components can cause starting and charging issues.
Carburetor Issues:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment; idle stability and fuel metering can be problematic if worn.
Transmission Shifting:
False neutrals, hard shifting, and worn shift forks can occur over time.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a deep history in V-twin engines and performance.
Super Glide Introduction:
The Super Glide was introduced in 1971 (as a '71 model) but represents the styling and engineering direction of the late 60s and early 70s.
Fx Model Line:
The 'FX' designation typically indicated a combination of the FL frame with the lighter 'Sportster' engine styling elements or the FX frame itself.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Era Significance:
Represents a transitional period for Harley-Davidson, adapting to market trends and competition.
