Motorcycle Type:
Custom Cruiser / Early American Cruiser
Target Demographic:
Riders seeking a classic, powerful, and customizable American motorcycle experience.
Competitors Era:
Other large-displacement V-twin motorcycles, British twins, Japanese performance bikes.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on V-twin power, low-end torque, iconic styling, and rider customization.
Unique Selling Proposition:
The 'Super Glide' name itself represented a more refined and powerful offering in the Harley-Davidson lineup of its time.
Applicable Years:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Key Models Covered:
FXS Super Glide
Estimated Pages:
Refer to product listing for exact page count (typically 300-500+ for this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Full Engine Overhaul, Carburetion, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System (Air-Cooled)
Transmission:
4-Speed Gearbox Disassembly, Assembly, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Chassis:
Frame Inspection, Front Forks (Telescopic), Rear Shocks, Steering Head Bearings
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Battery, Charging System, Starter Motor, Ignition Switch, Instruments
Brakes:
Front Disc Brake System, Rear Drum Brake System, Master Cylinder, Caliper, Bleeding Procedures
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Petcock, Fuel Lines, Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Pipes, Mufflers, Gaskets
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel Bearings, Tire Pressure Specifications, Rim Types
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Chain Adjustment, Lubrication Points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Problem Solving, Common Faults
Repair:
Component Disassembly and Reassembly, Component Replacement, Specifications for Torque, Clearances
Calibration:
Carburetor Tuning, Ignition Timing Adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds)
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Skilled DIY Mechanics
Engine Type:
Air-Cooled, 45-Degree V-Twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Bore:
Approx. 3.44 inches (87.3 mm)
Stroke:
Approx. 4.25 inches (108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (may vary by specific sub-model/year)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-65 HP (at crank, approximate)
Torque:
Estimated 65-70 ft-lbs (at crank, approximate)
Carburetor Type:
Single Keihin Butterfly Carburetor (e.g., CV type likely introduced during this period)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified in manual)
Ignition Type:
Battery Ignition System (Points and Condenser, or early electronic options)
Oil System:
Dry Sump with Oil Tank separate from the crankcase
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Oil or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil (e.g., SAE 20W50 or 60)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing like automobiles)
Braking System:
Dual Hydraulic Disc Front Brake, Drum Rear Brake (typical)
Suspension Features:
Telescopic Front Forks, Dual Rear Shock Absorbers
Lighting:
Headlight, Taillight, Brake Light, Turn Signals
System:
Basic instrumentation: Speedometer, Tachometer (optional), Ammeter, Oil Pressure Light (may vary by sub-model).
Features:
None (No electronic rider aids, ABS, or traction control typical for this era).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000 - 3,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, often at major service intervals or as needed based on condition.
Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust chain tension regularly, typically every 1,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual (typically around 3 quarts / 2.8 liters, including oil tank).
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent (often SAE 75W-90 gear oil).
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Oil or equivalent (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (verify specific requirement in manual).
Engine Wear:
Shovelhead engines can experience oil leaks, particularly around the pushrod tubes and base gaskets, due to their design and age. Piston ring wear and valve guide wear are also common with high mileage.
Electrical System:
Wiring harnesses can degrade over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Points ignition systems require periodic adjustment.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors may require adjustment or rebuild due to age and wear, affecting fuel mixture and idle.
Transmission Clutch:
Clutch adjustments and cable lubrication are important for smooth operation. Early transmissions can be prone to wear if not maintained.
Heritage:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and long-standing heritage.
Super Glide Introduction:
The FX Super Glide was introduced in 1971, featuring the distinctive 'boat tail' rear section and the FX chassis which was a blend of older FL and XL components.
Fxs Variant:
The FXS designation typically referred to models with cast wheels and sometimes different styling cues compared to the FLH (Electra Glide) or XLH (Sportster) lines.
Production Period:
1970-1978 for the specific model years covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Iconic Status:
The Harley-Davidson Super Glide is recognized as a foundational model in the evolution of the American cruiser motorcycle, inspiring many subsequent designs.
Collector Value:
Highly collectible motorcycle, with values appreciating based on condition, originality, and historical significance.
Manual Certification:
Prepared to industry standards for professional motorcycle repair documentation of its era.
