🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Electra-Glide

Year:

1970

Manual Product Name:

Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide 1970 Factory Service Repair Manual

Vehicle Identification Number System:

VIN system not standardized in 1970 for motorcycles as it is today; serial numbers and engine numbers were primary identifiers.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Electra-Glide was Harley-Davidson's flagship touring motorcycle, establishing its dominance in the large-displacement V-twin cruiser market. This manual serves as the definitive guide for owners and technicians of this iconic machine.

Competitive Analysis:

In 1970, the Electra-Glide competed primarily with other American motorcycles and offered a distinct V-twin rumble and utilitarian touring capability. This manual provides proprietary Harley-Davidson specific information crucial for maintaining this unique platform.

Key Features:

This factory service manual is essential for anyone looking to maintain, repair, or restore a 1970 Electra-Glide. Its detailed information ensures authenticity and proper functionality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive coverage for all service and repair procedures related to the 1970 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide.

Page Count:

Typically between 300-500 pages for a factory service manual of this era, though exact count is not provided in the product description.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed format, potentially available as a PDF scan.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Brakes, Suspension, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Specifications.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, disassembly, assembly, repair, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component testing, adjustments, overhaul procedures.

Technical Depth:

In-depth, detailed, and comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If digital, likely PDF. If physical, printed book.

Print Quality:

Original factory manuals were printed on durable paper stock with clear illustrations and text. Scanned PDFs may vary in clarity.

Binding Type:

Original factory manuals were typically bound with saddle stitching or perfect binding for longevity.

Paper Type:

High-quality, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to showcase detailed illustrations and diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

OHV (Overhead Valve), Air-Cooled, 45-degree V-Twin

Engine Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1207cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 7.0:1 to 8.0:1, depending on specific engine variant and tuning.

Carburetor:

Linkert M74B or equivalent for this period.

Horsepower:

Approx. 55-60 HP (at higher RPM)

Torque:

Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs (at lower RPM)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 5 US gallons (19 Liters)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, with a minimum octane rating of 87 (RON+MON)/2 (e.g., 87 AKI or higher).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual; generally designed for strong low-end torque and highway cruising.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific Harley-Davidson recommended transmission oil or equivalent SAE 50 weight gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Length:

Approximately 92 inches (2337 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg), depending on specific configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1000 lbs (454 kg) or more.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles of this era did not have standardized crash test ratings like modern automobiles.

Braking System:

Front: Disc brake (often a single disc), Rear: Drum brake.

Suspension Front:

Telescopic fork with hydraulic damping.

Suspension Rear:

Swingarm with adjustable dual shock absorbers.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

None by modern standards. Basic analogue instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, ammeter).

Driver Assistance Features:

None.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact specification).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition. (Refer to manual for exact specification).

Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:

Regularly, typically every 500-1000 miles, and adjust tension as needed. (Refer to manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 motorcycle specific engine oil (mineral-based for this era).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4 US quarts (3.8 Liters).

Primary Chaincase Oil Type:

Dedicated primary chaincase lubricant or SAE 50W gear oil.

Primary Chaincase Oil Capacity:

Approximately 1 US quart (0.95 Liters).

Known Issues Common:

Carburetor tuning (Linkert), generator charging issues, oil leaks (especially primary and transmission seals), ignition system reliability, wear on early disc brake components.

Known Issues Specific:

The manual will detail specific procedures for addressing these common wear and tear items and electrical system troubleshooting prevalent in 1970s Harley-Davidsons.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and most iconic motorcycle manufacturers in the world, known for its V-twin engines and American cruiser heritage.

Model Evolution:

The Electra-Glide was introduced in 1965 as the successor to the Duo-Glide, marking the debut of the 'Glide' moniker and establishing the template for Harley's large touring motorcycles. The 1970 model represents a key iteration during the AMF ownership era.

Production Years For Model:

1965-Present (with continuous evolution)

Manufacturing Location 1970:

York, Pennsylvania, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognitions:

The Electra-Glide line has consistently been recognized as a benchmark for American touring motorcycles, often cited for its comfort and long-distance capability. Specific awards for the 1970 model are not typically categorized in modern terms.

Consumer Ratings Historical:

Highly regarded by owners for its ruggedness and authentic V-twin experience, despite some perceived build quality challenges during the AMF era.