Positioning:
Essential reference for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, and restore the iconic 1972 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide.
Comparison:
Directly replaces or supplements limited factory documentation available for this classic model. Offers detailed, practical guidance often missing in anecdotal community knowledge.
Feature 1:
Authentic factory procedures and specifications.
Feature 2:
Detailed diagrams and illustrations specific to the 1972 model.
Feature 3:
Troubleshooting trees for common electrical and mechanical issues.
Feature 4:
Torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances critical for proper assembly.
Engine Overhaul:
Comprehensive coverage from top-end rebuilds to complete disassembly and reassembly of the Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine.
Transmission Service:
Detailed procedures for the 4-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, primary drive, and gearset maintenance.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for ignition, lighting, charging system, and accessories.
Braking System Service:
Information on hydraulic drum brake systems, including component identification, adjustment, and repair.
Suspension And Steering:
Fork service, shock absorber maintenance, steering head bearing adjustments.
Fuel And Carburetion:
Detailed carburetor overhaul (likely Linkert or early Keihin), fuel tank, fuel lines, and petcock maintenance.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump operation, oil filter service, and lubrication points.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine thermal management and inspection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, chain adjustment, and general lubrication.
Engine Rebuilds:
Piston replacement, cylinder honing, valve seat grinding, crankshaft inspection and repair.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch adjustment and replacement, gear replacement, bearing servicing.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing starting issues, lighting failures, charging system malfunctions.
Carburetor Tuning And Rebuild:
Complete disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and reassembly of the carburetor for optimal performance.
Brake System Overhaul:
Drum brake shoe replacement, linkage adjustment, fluid bleeding (if applicable to drum systems).
Fork Seal Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing fork seals and servicing fork oil.
Frame And Component Inspection:
Inspection of frame integrity, mounting points, and critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures.
Format Details:
Printed, likely with a durable cover for workshop use. High-quality paper for longevity.
Quality:
Professional factory print quality, designed for clarity and durability in a workshop environment.
Binding:
Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use, allowing the manual to lay flat during work.
Paper Quality:
Durable, thick paper stock to withstand workshop conditions, grease, and oil.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin OHV (Shovelhead)
Engine Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in. x 4.00 in. (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.0:1
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valves (OHV), pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 HP (estimated at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (estimated)
Carburetor:
Typically Harley-Davidson Linkert (e.g., M74B) or early Keihin Butterfly type.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating suitable for vintage engines)
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity, likely SAE 20W-50 or 50W for air-cooled V-twins.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Roller chain (open or enclosed primary cover)
Final Drive:
Belt drive (standard for Electra-Glide)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacity, typically around 1 pint (0.47 liters).
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity, often SAE 50 or gear oil.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Length:
Approximately 90.0 inches (2286 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to specific model VIN plate, typically around 900-1000 lbs (408-453 kg)
Crash Testing:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subjected to standardized crash testing as cars are.)
Braking:
Mechanical drum brakes (front and rear).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (if equipped), and reflector systems.
Chassis Integrity:
Steel frame construction providing structural support.
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000 - 3,000 miles or annually, depending on usage and manual recommendation.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect and gap at recommended intervals, typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or as per manual.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust tension periodically, often every 1,000 - 2,000 miles.
Belt Drive Inspection:
Inspect for wear and tension at regular service intervals.
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual; typically SAE 10W or 15W fork oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
N/A (Drum brakes do not use hydraulic fluid in the same manner as disc brakes).
Shifter Lever Play:
Wear in the transmission shifter linkage can lead to sloppy shifting. The manual will detail adjustment procedures.
Carburetor Leaks:
Linkert carburetors are prone to leaks if not properly maintained; overhaul procedures are critical.
Oil Leaks:
Common in vintage Harleys due to aging seals and gaskets. Manual provides gasket and seal replacement guidance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade; the manual's wiring diagrams and troubleshooting are invaluable.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an American icon known for its powerful V-twin motorcycles and touring capabilities.
Electraglide Lineage:
The Electra-Glide nameplate dates back to 1965, representing Harley-Davidson's flagship full-dresser touring model, evolving from the Duo-Glide. The 1972 model falls within the Shovelhead era.
Era:
1972 was a significant year for the Shovelhead engine, marking a period of continuous development in Harley-Davidson's history.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA