🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Model Variants:

FX, FXE, FXS

Engine Displacement:

1200cc (74 cubic inches)

Internal Platform Code:

FX

Covered Generations:

First Generation Super Glide

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, and motorcycle enthusiasts specializing in vintage American V-twins.

Alternatives:

While aftermarket manuals exist, factory service manuals offer the most accurate and complete information directly from the manufacturer.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, often hard-to-find, technical data for the maintenance and repair of classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, enabling owners to perform their own work and preserve the bikes' originality and value.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to seller for exact page count, typically 500+ pages for this era of factory manuals

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Shovelhead engine (1200cc), carburetor systems (e.g., Linkert, Keihin), ignition systems (points and early electronic), lubrication, cooling (air-cooled), valve train, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods.

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch assembly, primary drive, secondary drive (chain).

Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, front fork assembly (Greasers), rear suspension, swingarm, bearings, steering head.

Brakes:

Front disc brake system (single caliper), rear drum brake system, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlight, taillight, signals), battery, charging system (generator/alternator, regulator), starter motor, switches, instrumentation.

Bodywork:

Fuel tank, fenders, seat mounting, handlebars, controls, exhaust system, footpegs.

Maintenance:

Regular service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common problems, ignition issues, carburetor tuning, electrical faults, starting difficulties, running problems.

Repair:

Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, clutch replacement, fork seal replacement, brake caliper overhaul, starter motor repair, wiring harness repair.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including ignition timing, carburetor jetting, and electrical system testing.

Rebuild Specifications:

Detailed specifications for engine and transmission rebuilds, including tolerances, clearances, and torque values.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if scanned from an original factory manual or professionally digitized.

Image Resolution:

Dependent on the quality of the original scan; high-resolution scans are ideal for clarity.

Original Binding:

Typically stapled or perfect bound (for larger manuals).

Original Paper:

Often on thicker, matte paper stock typical of factory service manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by model year and specific engine build)

Horsepower Estimated:

60-65 HP (at the crank, estimated)

Torque Estimated:

70-75 ft-lbs (at the crank, estimated)

Carburetor Options:

Harley-Davidson Linkert (early years), Keihin butterfly (later years), possibly others depending on factory options or dealer modifications.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating as specified in the manual (typically 87-91 octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted (left-side shift)

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated

Primary Drive:

Heavy-duty chain drive within a sealed primary cover.

Secondary Drive:

Enclosed chain drive to the rear wheel.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 60.7 inches (1542 mm) (varies slightly by model year and specific configuration)

Dry Weight Estimated:

Approximately 550-600 lbs (250-272 kg) (varies by model and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Vintage motorcycle, safety features and ratings not comparable to modern standards. Focus is on mechanical integrity and proper maintenance.

Braking System Type:

Front disc, rear drum (specifics vary by model year - early models may have had drum front brake as well for some variants).

Frame Construction:

Steel, double-cradle frame design.

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional/model dependent), indicator lights for oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, and high beam. Simple and functional.

Safety Features:

None by modern standards. Relies on rider skill and proper mechanical condition.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 1,000 to 2,000 miles or annually, as per original factory recommendations. Manual will detail exact interval.

Primary Chain Case Oil Change:

Refer to manual, often at longer intervals than engine oil, e.g., 5,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommended oil (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50, depending on ambient temperature and specific engine build). Manual will specify exact grade and capacity (typically 4 quarts/liters).

Primary Chain Case Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson primary chain case lubricant or equivalent (typically a specific weight of gear oil or transmission fluid).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure compatibility).

Common Wear Items:

Valve guides, carburetor float bowls (Leaking), ignition points and condensers, generator/regulator issues, primary chain adjusters, fork seals, and main shaft seal leaks.

Carburetor Tuning:

Linkert and early Keihin carburetors can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy.

Electrical System Reliability:

Early electrical systems, particularly generators and regulators, can be a source of intermittent issues and require careful maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, a legendary American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903, known for its iconic V-twin engines and cruiser/touring motorcycles.

Super Glide Introduction:

The Super Glide FX was introduced in 1970 as Harley-Davidson's first major styling departure from its traditional Big Twin designs, featuring a more 'custom' look with a fiberglass 'boat tail' rear section and a low-slung profile. The FXE (Electric Start) and FXS (Low Rider) variants followed, expanding the model's appeal.

Production Period:

1970-1978 for the initial FX/FXE/FXS generation covered by this manual.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Significance:

The Super Glide FX is recognized as a groundbreaking model that helped Harley-Davidson navigate changing market tastes in the late 1960s and early 1970s, blending traditional V-twin power with a more modern aesthetic. It laid the groundwork for future custom and cruiser designs.