Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle restorers specializing in vintage bikes.
Differentiation:
Factory-authorized procedures and specifications ensure accuracy and authenticity for repairs and restorations, superior to aftermarket manuals.
Authenticity:
Official factory documentation providing the definitive source for maintenance and repair information.
Completeness:
Comprehensive coverage of all mechanical and electrical systems for the specified model.
Usability:
Designed for ease of use in a workshop setting with clear diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, specifications, troubleshooting for Shovelhead V-Twin
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission service, disassembly, assembly, adjustments, lubrication
Clutch:
Clutch service, adjustment, replacement of plates and springs
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Linkert or early Keihin butterfly) overhaul, adjustment, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points ignition system, timing, coil, spark plugs, wiring diagrams
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (generator/alternator), battery, starter, switches
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes for this year), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, caliper (if disc conversion), brake shoe adjustment and replacement
Suspension:
Front fork (likely leading-axle style), rear shock absorbers, swingarm service, lubrication
Frame And Body:
Frame inspection, bodywork adjustments, fairing, saddlebags, fenders, seat mounting
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, spoke tensioning, tire specifications, wheel removal and installation
Controls:
Handlebar controls, throttle, clutch, brake levers, foot controls, cable adjustments
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacement, tune-up procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and their solutions, electrical system troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper servicing
Adjustment:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, clutch and brake lever adjustments, chain tensioning
Specifications:
Detailed torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
File Type:
Print (likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound)
Searchability:
Index-based, not digitally searchable unless a PDF version is also available.
Print Clarity:
Likely black and white line drawings and schematics; print quality typical of factory manuals from the era.
Binding:
Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and lay-flat use.
Paper Quality:
Durable, often matte-finish paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-Twin OHV (Shovelhead)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (varies slightly)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-65 HP (at crank)
Torque:
Estimated 70-75 ft-lbs (at crank)
Carburetor:
Likely Linkert M-Series or early Keihin butterfly (specific model varies, manual will detail)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating as per manual, likely 91+ RON)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change (manual to confirm)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher multi-viscosity oil, SAE 20W-50 recommended for most conditions (manual to specify)
Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched
Gear Ratios:
Manual will contain specific ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th gears, and reverse (if applicable).
Options:
No major transmission options typically offered for this specific FLH model designation in 1973.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated
Lubrication:
Gearbox oil, separate from engine oil (manual to specify type and capacity).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 62.2 inches (1580 mm)
Length:
Approximately 94.0 inches (2388 mm)
Seat Height:
Approximately 30.5 inches (775 mm) unladen
Dry Weight:
Approximately 660 lbs (300 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 1050 lbs (476 kg) (manual to confirm)
Safety Ratings:
No standardized safety ratings (like NHTSA or Euro NCAP) for motorcycles of this era.
Braking:
Front and rear drum brakes (manual to detail adjustments and potential disc conversion service).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (manual covers electrical system and bulb types).
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame designed for stability and load carrying.
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually (manual to specify exact interval).
Tune Up:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles, including ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and spark plug inspection.
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500-1000 miles, or more frequently in wet conditions.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 recommended (manual confirmation required for exact API rating and viscosity).
Transmission Oil:
Manual transmission fluid, SAE 80W-90 gear oil often suitable (manual to confirm specific type and viscosity).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary chain case lubricant or equivalent (manual to specify).
Shifter Forks:
Wear on transmission shifter forks leading to difficult gear engagement.
Oil Leaks:
Common from primary cover, transmission, and rocker boxes due to aging seals and gaskets.
Carburetor Wear:
Linkert carburetors can be prone to wear, affecting idle and fuel mixture stability.
Ignition Timing:
Point ignition requires regular adjustment for optimal performance and starting.
Charging System:
Generator output can diminish with age; regulator issues can occur.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, a foundational American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903.
Predecessors:
Evolved from the Panhead engine models, incorporating the new Shovelhead design introduced in 1966.
Evolution To 1973:
The Electra Glide FLH series was the flagship touring model, evolving with mechanical updates and styling cues throughout the late 60s and early 70s.
Production Era:
Shovelhead engine produced from 1966-1984; Electra Glide model line continues to present day.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
