Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, and enthusiasts
Manual Value:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the classic Electra Glide Super Glide models
Documentation Quality:
Authoritative, detailed, and accurate technical information
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel and ignition systems
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive maintenance and repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, and tires
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, master cylinders, calipers, brake discs, and linkage
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, battery, starting system
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, adjustment, and overhaul; fuel tank and lines
Bodywork:
Fairing, fenders, fuel tank, seat, and related trim components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems and their solutions
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Disassembly Reassembly:
Complete guides for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic tune-ups to full engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200cc) Shovelhead engine
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 7.5:1 to 8.0:1 (varies by sub-model)
Horsepower:
Approx. 55-60 HP (at rear wheel, estimated)
Torque:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (at rear wheel, estimated)
Carburetor:
Linkert or Keihin (depending on specific model year and configuration), typically single downdraft
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 octane recommended)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil (or equivalent SAE 20W50)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Ignition System:
Battery-coil ignition with points and condenser (some models may have early electronic ignition)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Final Drive:
Belt drive or chain drive (depending on specific model variant)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual, varies by model year
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (or SAE 85W140 gear oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 fl oz (0.71 liters)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1000 lbs (454 kg)
Safety Standards:
N/A (Motorcycle specific safety features, not rated by NHTSA)
Brakes:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake (typically drum on some earlier models/variants)
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Chassis Design:
Robust steel frame construction
Oil Change:
Every 2,000 - 3,000 miles (or 6 months)
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Check and adjust per manual specifications (critical for Shovelheads)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 5,000 - 7,000 miles
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Check every 2,000 miles, clean/replace as needed
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W50 Motorcycle Oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Genuine Oil)
Transmission Oil:
SAE 85W140 Gear Oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Formula +)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Shovlehead Specific:
Oil leaks (common with age), primary chain tensioner wear, carburetor tuning variability, ignition points maintenance
Electrics:
Aging wiring harness can lead to intermittent issues
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, established 1903, renowned for V-twin motorcycles and cruiser lifestyle
Electra Glide Legacy:
Long-standing touring motorcycle platform, evolved from earlier FL models
Shovelhead Era:
1966-1984 engine platform, characterized by its distinct 'shovel'-like rocker boxes
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA (Harley-Davidson manufacturing facilities)