Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfer (DIY) and experienced mechanics
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly, comprehensive resource
Advantage:
Complete official factory manual, avoids shipping delays and costs of physical copies
User Friendliness:
Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval, bold figure numbers for quick illustration matching
Navigability:
Index included for efficient searching
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, reassembly, tuning
Transmission:
Service, repair, and adjustment of transmission components
Clutch:
Maintenance and repair of the clutch system
Primary Drive:
Detailed coverage of the primary drive system
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Exhaust Systems:
Installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of exhaust components
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, charging system diagnostics
Front Suspension:
Fork service, bearings, and adjustments
Rear Suspension:
Shock absorber service, linkage maintenance
Steering:
Headset service and adjustment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service and maintenance
Kickstarter:
Service and repair of the kickstart mechanism
Maintenance:
Periodic lubrication, fluid changes, component checks
Tune Up:
Comprehensive engine tuning procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common and complex issues
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Disassembly Reassembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly guidance
Depth:
Detailed, factory-level technical information suitable for DIY and professional mechanics
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Diagnostic Focus:
Specific focus on electrical system diagnostics with combined troubleshooting and wiring diagrams
Engine Type:
Air-cooled V-twin (Shovelhead)
Displacement:
Typically 74 cubic inches (1200cc) for this era, potential for 80 cubic inches (1340cc) variants. Specific displacement for 1973 FX models should be confirmed by VIN, but the manual covers the Shovelhead architecture.
Bore X Stroke:
For 74ci: 3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm). For 80ci: 3.50 in x 4.25 in (88.9 mm x 107.95 mm).
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 depending on factory specifications and potential modifications.
Horsepower:
Estimated 55-65 hp at rear wheel (depending on specific configuration and tuning).
Torque:
Estimated 65-75 ft-lbs (depending on specific configuration and tuning).
Carburetor:
Typically a Keihin butterfly or Linkert carburetor, or potentially a later S&S Super E/G for aftermarket upgrades. Manual covers service for stock configurations.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating typically 87 or higher.
Cylinder Block:
Cast iron
Cylinder Heads:
Aluminum alloy
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Type:
4-speed constant mesh, manual clutch operation
Gearbox Layout:
The manual covers the standard 4-speed gearbox used in the FX models.
Primary Drive Type:
Chain drive, enclosed in a primary cover.
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and type, commonly SAE 50W or similar for the gearbox.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Typically Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or an equivalent specified in the manual.
Wheelbase:
Varies by FX model specifics, typically around 60-62 inches.
Length:
Varies by FX model specifics, typically around 87-90 inches.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 550-600 lbs (250-270 kg), depending on exact configuration.
Safety Standards:
Vintage motorcycle, safety features reflect the era. Manual covers operation of existing safety systems.
Braking System:
Front and rear drum brakes or early disc brake systems for front depending on specific FX variant. Manual covers service and adjustment.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals. Manual details electrical checks and repairs.
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, depending on usage. Manual provides detailed guidance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, generally around 5,000-10,000 miles.
Chain Adjustment:
Periodic checks and adjustments required for primary and final drive chains.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommended oil or equivalent (e.g., high-zinc content oil for flat tappet engines).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Typically around 3-4 quarts (2.8-3.8 liters) for the Shovelhead engine, including the oil tank.
Oil Leaks:
Common with vintage motorcycles of this era. Manual provides guidance on sealing and gasket replacement.
Carburetor Tuning:
May require periodic adjustments for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring and components can lead to intermittent issues. The detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a historic American motorcycle manufacturer.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine was in production from 1966 to 1984. The FX chassis was introduced in 1971, often featuring the Shovelhead engine and a distinctive 'chopper' styling with a longer fork rake compared to the FL 'Electra Glide' models.
Production Period:
1973 marked a significant year in Harley-Davidson's evolution, with the Shovelhead engine being a core component of their lineup.
