🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Electra Glide

Year:

1971

Chassis Code:

FLH

Product Code Example:

99402-71

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, and restoration specialists focusing on the 1971 Electra Glide.

Value Proposition:

Provides authorized, factory-level repair and maintenance information essential for preserving the integrity and performance of a classic motorcycle.

Feature 1:

Authoritative information directly from Harley-Davidson for the specified model year.

Feature 2:

Detailed technical diagrams and exploded views crucial for understanding complex assemblies.

Feature 3:

Essential for maintaining the collectible value and operational readiness of a 1971 Electra Glide.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair and Service

Secondary Coverage:

Adjustment and Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

200+

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, oil pump, lubrication system

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh, disassembly, assembly, shifting mechanism, clutch operation

Electrical System:

Ignition system, charging system (generator), lighting, starter motor, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Linkert M74B or M74), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, brakes (front drum, rear drum)

Bodywork:

Fenders, fairing (optional, likely FLH refers to the full dresser model with fairing), saddlebags, seat

Maintenance:

Regular service checks, lubrication points, tune-ups, tire pressure, chain adjustment (if applicable to rear drive)

Repair:

Component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common problems, causes, and corrective actions

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustment, ignition timing, clutch, brakes, suspension settings

Depth:

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

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Consideration:

Often available as a PDF, indicating potential for searchability and easy navigation if digitally sourced.

Print Quality Expectation:

Factory manuals typically feature clear line drawings, diagrams, and legible text.

Binding Type Expectation:

Likely a spiral-bound or perfect-bound format for ease of use on a workbench.

Paper Type Expectation:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

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

Engine Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1207 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.000 in

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1

Valve Configuration:

Two valves per cylinder, operated by pushrods and rocker arms.

Horsepower Estimate:

Approximately 60-65 HP (at the crank)

Torque Estimate:

Approximately 75-80 ft-lbs (at the crank)

Carburetor Model:

Linkert M74B or M74 (specific to the year and potential updates)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (as available in 1971, likely higher octane).

Oil System:

Dry sump lubrication with an external oil tank.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4 US quarts (3.8 Liters), including oil tank.

Ignition System:

Battery-coil ignition with breaker points and condenser.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch lever

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this model/year; 4-speed was standard.

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate, operated by hand lever.

Final Drive:

Belt drive to rear wheel (or potentially chain drive depending on specific configuration, but belt was common for Electra Glides).

Transmission Oil Type:

Specific Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent (e.g., SAE 50 motorcycle gear oil).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Length:

Approximately 91 inches (2311 mm)

Width:

Varies with fairing and saddlebags, typically around 35-40 inches.

Seat Height:

Approximately 30 inches (762 mm) unladen.

Dry Weight:

Approximately 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Not typically specified in the same way as cars; refers to combined weight of bike, rider, and cargo.

Saddlebag Capacity:

Significant, designed for touring; specific volume not usually quoted but substantial.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Rating System:

Motorcycles are not rated by NHTSA or IIHS in the same manner as cars. Safety depends heavily on rider skill and maintenance.

Braking System:

Dual leading shoe drum brakes (front and rear) for 1971. This was a standard braking system for the era.

Tires:

Bias-ply construction, specific sizes will be detailed in the manual (e.g., 3.50-19 front, 4.00-18 rear).

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (typically standard on FLH models).

Horn:

Standard.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

None. This era focused on mechanical and electrical systems. Radio or audio was not a factory feature.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. rider assistance is purely skill-based.

Connectivity Features:

None. Mechanical and electrical systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or at least annually. Manual will specify exact intervals and checks.

Tune Up Interval:

Ignition points and spark plugs usually require attention every 3,000-5,000 miles. Carburetor adjustments may be needed more frequently.

Primary Chain Adjustment:

Primary chain tension needs periodic checking and adjustment, typically every 5,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson approved oil, or equivalent (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50 for hot climates). The manual will specify the precise viscosity and API classification required.

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent (e.g., SAE 50 gear oil).

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Typically shares engine oil or has a separate specified lubricant.

Brake Fluid Type:

Drum brakes, typically do not use hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify any required lubrication for brake mechanisms.

Common Issue 1:

Oil leaks (common with many vintage motorcycles, especially around engine seals and pushrod tubes).

Common Issue 2:

Electrical system reliability (older wiring can degrade, generator charging systems require maintenance).

Common Issue 3:

Carburetor tuning and maintenance (Linkert carburetors are robust but require specific knowledge).

Common Issue 4:

Valve train noise (Shovelhead engines can be inherently noisy; proper adjustment is key).

Common Issue 5:

Drum brake performance (can be less effective than modern disc brakes, requiring precise adjustment and maintenance).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Establishment:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.

Electra Glide Origin:

The Electra Glide nameplate was introduced in 1965, evolving from the Duo-Glide. The 1965 model was the first Harley with electric start, a significant innovation.

1971 Updates:

The 1971 models continued to refine the FLH platform, with minor changes in styling, engine tuning, and component suppliers. It represents a classic era for the brand before significant economic challenges and the AMF ownership period fully impacted design.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Era Significance:

The 1971 model is part of the 'Shovelhead' era (engine designation based on rocker box shape), a pivotal period in Harley-Davidson's development.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The Electra Glide FLH is an iconic motorcycle, representing a golden age of American touring motorcycles. It is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Performance Ratings:

While not formally rated, the 1971 FLH was renowned for its comfortable ride and powerful V-twin engine, establishing Harley-Davidson's reputation for big-twin touring.

Manual Certification:

Factory original documentation meets industry standards for service manuals of its time.