Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FLH 1979 owners, mechanics, restoration enthusiasts
Purpose:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the Harley-Davidson Shovelhead FLH 1979.
Value Proposition:
Cost-effective solution for vehicle maintenance and repair, replacing expensive professional services
Manual Enhancements:
Detailed substeps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations/drawings/photos, enlarged inset views, numbered table of contents, combined electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams
Delivery Advantage:
Instant download, no shipping costs or waiting time
Manual Scope:
Complete factory service and repair
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)
Manual Classification:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
PDF Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Digital Storage:
Can be saved to hard-drive or burned to CD-ROM
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, troubleshooting, lubrication, maintenance, tune-up, internal components, primary drive, fuel system, exhaust systems
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, primary drive, transmission, kickstarter
Chassis Systems:
Front suspension, steering, rear suspension, brakes
Electrical Systems:
Electrical system diagnostics, repair, wiring diagrams
Index:
Includes a comprehensive index for quick information retrieval.
General Information:
Covers general aspects of the motorcycle, safety, and basic operational information.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of components
Maintenance Procedures:
Periodic lubrication, routine maintenance, tune-up procedures
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting, electrical system diagnosis
Electrical Repair Scope:
Diagnosis and repair of the entire electrical system, including ignition, charging, lighting, and accessories, supported by detailed wiring diagrams.
Tune Up Procedures:
Detailed procedures for achieving optimal engine performance.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, suitable for do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, detailed disassembly, hundreds of photos/illustrations
Illustration Quality:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations to guide users through procedures.
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions for step-by-step guidance.
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled V-twin
Engine Displacement:
Typically 74 cubic inches (1200cc) for FLH models, though 80 cubic inches (1340cc) was also available in later years. Specific displacement for 1979 FLH should be confirmed but 74ci is common.
Engine Cooling:
Air-cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 60-65 HP (specific figures vary)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (specific figures vary)
Carburetor Type:
Typically a Keihin butterfly or Linkert carburetor, depending on specific build and market. Manual covers carburetor tuning and overhaul.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (typically with octane rating appropriate for the era, e.g., 91 AKI or higher)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh
Transmission Variants:
N/A (4-speed was standard for FLH)
Transmission Service:
Manual covers internal transmission repair, clutch service, primary drive maintenance, and kickstarter operation.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate clutch. Manual covers clutch service and adjustment.
Safety Standards:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings not typically published like automotive vehicles)
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes (or front disc, rear drum depending on specific sub-model/options). Manual covers brake system maintenance and repair.
Lighting System:
Headlight, taillight, turn signals, brake lights. Manual covers electrical system and bulb replacement.
Audio System:
Factory original models may have had optional radio/cassette players or were typically equipped for aftermarket installation. Manual focuses on the factory electrical system.
Rider Aids:
None (typical for motorcycles of this era). Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Electrical Connections:
Basic electrical system for lighting, ignition, and charging. Manual provides detailed wiring diagrams for troubleshooting and repair.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually (as per manual recommendations). Specific interval for 1979 FLH should be detailed in the manual.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Regular checks and adjustments as specified in the manual, crucial for drivetrain longevity.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically a high-quality motorcycle-specific V-twin oil, often 20W-50. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Motorcycle-specific gear oil or primary chaincase oil, capacity and grade detailed in manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid for hydraulic systems. Manual will specify requirements.
Common Shovelhead Concerns:
Oil leaks (common due to age and seal material), valve guide wear, transmission shifting issues, ignition system maintenance. Manual provides solutions.
Carburetor Maintenance:
Regular cleaning, adjustment, and potential rebuild of the carburetor is a common maintenance task for this era of Harley-Davidson.
Tune Up Components:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, air filter cleaning/replacement, checking all fluid levels.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a long history of producing large-displacement V-twin motorcycles.
Shovelhead Development:
The Shovelhead engine replaced the Panhead engine in 1966 and featured updated cylinder heads, providing improved performance and cooling. The FLH Electra Glide was Harley-Davidson's top-of-the-line touring model.
Production Period:
Shovelhead engine produced from 1966 to 1984. The FLH model has been in continuous production in various forms since the late 1960s.
