Target Audience:
Owners and technicians of Harley-Davidson Electra Glide FL/FLH models from 1970-1978 seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-accurate information for maintaining the iconic Shovelhead era Electra Glide, critical for preserving originality and ensuring proper function.
Completeness:
Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and chassis systems for the specified model years and variants.
Accuracy:
Based on original Harley-Davidson factory service documentation, ensuring technical accuracy.
Engine:
Shovelhead 1200cc (FL & FLH models), including top end, bottom end, lubrication, cooling, ignition, and fuel systems.
Transmission:
4-speed Cruise Drive transmission, including internal components, clutch, and primary drive.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, and brakes (drum and early disc types).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system (generator/alternator), starter, battery, and instrumentation.
Bodywork:
Fairing (if equipped), fenders, fuel tank, seat, saddlebags, and mounting hardware.
Maintenance:
Routine service checks, lubrication, filter changes, tune-ups, and seasonal storage procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues, with symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension repairs, electrical component replacement, and brake system servicing.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete guides for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm) - Typical for 74 cu. in.
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 7.0:1 to 8.0:1 (varies by year and specific model).
Horsepower:
Approx. 55-60 HP (varies by year and tuning).
Torque:
Approx. 65-70 lb-ft (varies by year and tuning).
Carburetion:
Primarily Keihin Butterfly or Linkert Carburetors (specific models vary). Later models may feature AMF-era carburetors. Manual will detail specific types.
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points and coil, magneto ignition on some earlier models. Manual will detail specific ignition types.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically 20W50 or SAE 50 motorcycle-specific oil. Manual will specify exact type and API service classification (e.g., API SF or SG).
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change. Manual will confirm exact capacity.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Typically Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent. Manual will specify.
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters). Manual will confirm.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, floorboard-shifted (Foot Clutch/Hand Shift Lever) or Foot Shift (Foot Clutch/Foot Shift).
Drive Type:
Chain primary drive, belt final drive.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, diaphragm spring type.
Transmission Oil Type:
Manual specifies, often a specific gear oil or heavier weight oil. Manual will confirm.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 pint (0.47 liters). Manual will confirm.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 62.5 inches (1588 mm).
Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg) depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Manual will specify GVWR.
Safety Standards:
Reflects safety standards of the era. No modern crash test ratings apply. Manual details brake system maintenance and operational safety.
Braking System:
Front disc brake (introduced in this era for some models), rear drum brake. Manual covers inspection, adjustment, and replacement of brake pads/shoes and fluid.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals. Manual details bulb replacement, wiring, and troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual will provide definitive schedule.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular tune-ups including spark plug replacement, points adjustment, and carburetor adjustment recommended every 3,000-6,000 miles.
Primary Chain Tensioner Adjustment:
Regular checks and adjustments are critical for primary drive longevity. Manual will detail procedure and interval.
Brake Fluid Type:
For disc brakes (if equipped): DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify for drum brakes as well (if applicable).
Shovlehead Engine Characteristics:
Known for oil leaks (common for the era), finning on cylinders for cooling, and potential for pushrod tube leaks. Manual addresses repair and prevention.
Electrical System Reliability:
Older electrical systems can be prone to wear. Manual provides wiring diagrams and troubleshooting for common issues like charging system problems or faulty switches.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin or Linkert carburetors require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and starting. Manual details adjustment procedures.
Clutch Adjustment:
Clutch free play needs regular adjustment. Manual details the procedure.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, established in 1903, is synonymous with American motorcycling culture and has a long history of producing large-displacement V-twin motorcycles.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide, introduced in 1965, represented Harley-Davidson's entry into the large touring motorcycle segment, evolving from the Duo-Glide. The 1970-1978 era is part of the 'Shovelhead' generation, a significant period in the model's development.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (primary manufacturing site during this period).
Market Impact:
The Electra Glide defined the American touring motorcycle, offering comfort and power for long-distance riding.
Cultural Impact:
The Electra Glide of this era is a cultural icon, often associated with freedom, the open road, and classic Americana. Recognized for its enduring design and influence.
Customer Satisfaction:
While specific ratings are unavailable for this vintage, the model's longevity and continued demand among collectors and riders speak to its lasting appeal.
Documentation Standard:
Factory service manual adheres to Harley-Davidson's internal documentation standards for the period.
