Positioning:
The 1970 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXS was a landmark model, pioneering the concept of the factory-built custom cruiser. This manual serves as an essential resource for maintaining and restoring this iconic motorcycle.
Competitors:
In 1970, the Super Glide competed with other large-displacement V-twins but stood out with its factory-custom styling and performance focus.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-accurate information for servicing and repairing the 1970 FXS Super Glide, crucial for preserving originality and ensuring optimal performance.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive repair and adjustment information for the 1970 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXS.
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (typical for early factory manuals, often extensive; actual count not provided in product info)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Print (implied by 'reference book', though digital versions might exist)
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, repair, and checking of the engine.
Transmission:
Service procedures for the transmission.
Chassis:
Maintenance, repair, and adjustment of chassis components.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, and repair of the electrical system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel tank, and fuel lines.
Brakes:
Brake system maintenance and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension service.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire information.
Controls:
Handlebar controls, foot controls.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal, installation, and repair.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, lubrication, adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components.
Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for component disassembly.
Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component assembly.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts.
Checking And Adjusting:
Specific checks and adjustments for optimal performance.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers installation, removal, disassembly, assembly, repair, and check procedures).
Target Audience:
Mechanics and DIY persons.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF if sold digitally, but product description implies printed.
Print Quality:
Expected to be high quality, typical of factory service manuals with clear diagrams.
Binding:
Typically spiral-bound or hardbound for ease of use in a workshop.
Paper Quality:
Durable, often glossy paper to withstand workshop conditions and for clear reproduction of diagrams.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
74 cu in (1200 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.31 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 60 hp @ 5000 rpm (estimated, factory figures varied)
Torque:
Not explicitly stated in product info, but significant low-end torque characteristic of Harley-Davidson.
Carburetor:
Single Linkert M-series carburetor (e.g., M74B or similar) or early Keihin butterfly.
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 4.0 gallons (15.1 L) for the fuel tank.
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil ignition with points and condenser.
Oil Type:
Primarily Harley-Davidson 50W motorcycle oil or equivalent. Manual will specify exact grades.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 US quarts (2.8 L) including oil in the frame reservoir (common for this era).
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched.
Optional Transmissions:
None offered for this specific model year.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate clutch, operated by hand lever.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual, crucial for performance tuning.
Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended transmission fluid or equivalent SAE 50W gear oil. Manual will specify.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Length:
Approximately 87.8 inches (2230 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 525 lbs (238 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but manual will provide payload capacity.
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing like modern cars. Safety features were basic.
Active Safety:
Effective braking system (dual leading shoe front, possibly drum rear), responsive steering.
Passive Safety:
Sturdy frame construction, rider positioning.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Manual will provide precise recommendations.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Regular checks and adjustments are critical; service intervals vary but are often tied to mileage or audible indication.
Spark Plug Replacement:
As recommended in the manual, often around 10,000-15,000 miles.
Drive Belt Check:
Not applicable, the 1970 Super Glide used a chain drive.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson 50W Motorcycle Oil or equivalent. Manual will specify exact API service classification if applicable.
Transmission Oil Spec:
SAE 50W Gear Oil or specialized Harley-Davidson transmission fluid. Manual is the definitive source.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Often shared with the transmission, or a specific primary fluid. Manual will clarify.
Brake Fluid Spec:
Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for hydraulic systems, though drum brakes might not use fluid. Manual will specify.
Engine Wear:
Valve guides, piston rings, and oil leaks are common wear items on engines of this vintage due to materials and seals used.
Carburetor Issues:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment; fuel delivery issues are common if not properly maintained.
Electrical Reliability:
Wiring insulation can degrade over time, leading to shorts or intermittent issues. Battery charging systems (generators/alternators) require regular attention.
Frame And Suspension:
Worn suspension bushings, steering head bearings, and wheel bearings are typical of high-mileage, older motorcycles.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long and storied history of producing iconic V-twin motorcycles, synonymous with American freedom and performance.
Super Glide Introduction:
The FX Super Glide was introduced in 1971 (though often referred to by its development name or associated with the late 1970 model year). It was the first Harley-Davidson designed from the ground up as a factory custom motorcycle, intended to appeal to a younger demographic with its 'Cafe Racer' styling.
Fxs Specifics:
The FXS designation typically referred to the 'Super Glide' model. The styling cues, including the frame-mounted fairing and 'buckhorn' handlebars, were distinctive for its time.
Production Period:
The first generation of the Super Glide spanned from 1971 through 1978, with subsequent generations evolving the concept.
