Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, tuning, carburetor service (e.g., Linkert), ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled components).
Transmission Systems:
4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch service, primary drive, final drive.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork (leading axle), rear suspension (shock absorbers), wheels, bearings, steering head.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), ignition coil, starter motor, switches.
Brake Systems:
Drum brake service (front and rear), brake linkage adjustment.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock, carburetor adjustment and rebuilding.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing (if applicable), fenders, seat, saddlebags, fuel tank mounting and refinishing guidance.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks, chain adjustment.
Repair Procedures:
Engine teardown and reassembly, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, wheel bearing service, fork seal replacement, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Carburetor Overhaul:
Detailed steps for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling Linkert or Keihin carburetors, including jetting and idle mixture adjustments.
Ignition Timing:
Procedures for setting ignition timing using a timing light and adjusting points.
Clutch Adjustment:
Step-by-step instructions for adjusting clutch cable play and ensuring proper engagement/disengagement.
Fork Seal Replacement:
Detailed guide for draining fork oil, replacing seals, and refilling with the correct weight and amount of oil.
Wheel Truing And Spoke Tensioning:
Guidance on maintaining wheel alignment and spoke tension for optimal performance and safety.
Depth:
Detailed, in-depth coverage suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes specifications for precision assembly and adjustments.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque specifications for critical fasteners (e.g., cylinder head bolts, crankshaft nuts, transmission components).
Clearance Specifications:
Precise clearances for engine components like piston-to-cylinder, valve stem-to-guide, and bearing clearances.
Engine Type:
Air-Cooled, OHV V-Twin
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1213 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.0:1 (varies slightly by year/variant)
Horsepower:
Estimated 55-60 HP at 5000 RPM (typical for the era, factory figures often understated)
Torque:
Estimated 70-80 ft-lbs at 3000 RPM
Carburetor:
Linkert M-Series (e.g., M-97, M-74) or Keihin butterfly (later models within this range).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common, unleaded is recommended for longevity of valve seats)
Ignition Type:
Battery-coil ignition with points and condenser
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) for dry sumped system.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended 20W50 motorcycle oil (or equivalent with appropriate ZDDP content).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Length:
Approx. 91.7 inches (2329 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg), depending on model variant.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in the same way as modern vehicles, but frame limits apply.
Front Tire Size:
3.25-19 (typical)
Rear Tire Size:
4.00-18 (typical)
Wheel Type:
Spoked, 19-inch front, 18-inch rear
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1500-2000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Regularly, often at every oil change, to prevent premature wear.
Spark Plug Check:
Every 2000-3000 miles.
Wheel Bearing Lubrication:
Periodically, as per manual recommendations, often tied to tire changes.
Engine Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent with high ZDDP content (e.g., Valvoline VR1 Racing Oil).
Transmission Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson 68W Gear Oil or equivalent.
Primary Chain Oil:
Typically shared with the transmission, or a specific primary lubricant.
Known Issues Engine:
Pushrod tube leaks, valve guide wear, oil leaks from rocker boxes and base gaskets, camshaft wear, timing issues with worn points.
Known Issues Transmission:
Output shaft seal leaks, clutch basket wear, shifting difficulties due to linkage or internal wear.
Known Issues Electrical:
Generator charging issues, failing voltage regulators, worn wiring insulation, ignition point issues.
Known Issues Chassis:
Steering head bearing adjustment and wear, fork seal leaks, wheel spoke tension.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long and storied history in American motorcycling. The Electra Glide and Super Glide represent the evolution of their iconic big twin platform.
Model Evolution 1970S:
The 1970-1972 models were part of a significant period for Harley-Davidson. These bikes continued the legacy of the FL platform, with refinements in engine, transmission, and chassis design from earlier Panhead and Shovelhead generations. Electra Glide signified the touring variant, often with fairings and saddlebags, while Super Glide was the more stripped-down performance model, though both shared the fundamental V-twin architecture.
Production Era:
These models are part of the 'Shovelhead' engine era, named for the distinct shape of the rocker boxes. This era saw Harley-Davidson navigate significant technological and economic challenges.
