🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

CLE Sidecar

Year:

1979

Product Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Purpose:

To provide authoritative, factory-level repair and maintenance information for the 1979 Harley-Davidson CLE Sidecar, ensuring proper function and longevity.

Niche Product:

The CLE Sidecar was a niche accessory, and this manual serves the specific needs of owners and technicians working with this specialized equipment.

Value Proposition:

Offers comprehensive, official documentation that is crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of a classic Harley-Davidson motorcycle with a factory-approved sidecar attachment.

Content Focus:

Emphasis on sequential, step-by-step procedures for ease of use by mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops specializing in classic motorcycles, and restoration enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Installation, Removal, Disassembly, Assembly, Repair, and Check Procedures for the Harley-Davidson CLE Sidecar.

Secondary Coverage:

Adjustments and general reference for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

Estimated Pages:

N/A (Specific page count not provided in product description, but typical for factory service manuals of this era can range from 200-500 pages for a comprehensive unit).

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (assumed based on 'handy, easy to read reference book')

📖 Manual Coverage

Structural Mounting:

Detailed procedures for securely attaching the CLE sidecar to the host Harley-Davidson motorcycle chassis.

Body Construction:

Information on the sidecar body panels, frame, and associated components.

Suspension And Wheel:

Components related to the sidecar's suspension, wheel hub, bearings, and steering mechanism.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring and connections for any integrated lighting or accessories on the sidecar.

Installation:

Comprehensive step-by-step guide for the initial installation of the sidecar.

Removal:

Instructions for safely detaching the sidecar from the motorcycle.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling sidecar components.

Repair:

Guidance on fixing common issues and component failures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic steps for identifying and resolving problems.

Adjustments:

Procedures for fine-tuning various sidecar systems.

Alignment:

Critical procedures for aligning the sidecar wheel with the motorcycle's wheels for optimal handling and tire wear.

Depth:

Detailed, covering installation to advanced repair procedures, suitable for both professional mechanics and experienced DIY users.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Factory service manuals from this period are known for their detailed, exploded-view diagrams and clear line drawings illustrating assembly and disassembly steps.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Print (assumed)

Quality:

Factory original quality (expected for 'Factory Service Repair Manual'). Clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Likely a robust binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., comb binding, spiral binding, or stitched binding).

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments, designed to withstand frequent handling and potential exposure to oil and grease.

Part Number Style:

While not explicitly stated, factory service manuals often have internal part numbers or publication numbers. The title 'Harley-Davidson CLE Sidecar 1979 Factory Service Repair Manual' serves as the primary identifier.

Clarity:

Designed for clarity and ease of reference, with explanations laid out in sequential order for both mechanics and DIY users.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Host Motorcycle Engine:

This manual covers the sidecar itself, and assumes it is attached to a host Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The specific engine specifications would depend on the motorcycle model (e.g., Shovelhead engine variants typical for 1979 Harley-Davidson models like the FX series or FL series).

Sidecar Impact:

The manual would likely contain information on how sidecar installation affects overall vehicle performance, handling, and braking, requiring adjustments to the host motorcycle's setup.

Sidecar Components:

N/A (No fuel system associated with the sidecar itself, but might mention any integrated auxiliary lighting or electrical draw).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

N/A (Transmission is part of the host Harley-Davidson motorcycle, not the sidecar. Manual may reference motorcycle transmission for optimal performance with sidecar).

Handling Considerations:

Guidance on transmission engagement and proper gear selection when operating a motorcycle with a sidecar, especially under load or varying conditions.

📐 Dimensions

Typical Dimensions:

Specifications for the sidecar's overall length, width, and height. (Exact dimensions would be within the manual itself, but typical for this era's sidecars are around 6-7 feet long, 3-4 feet wide, and 2-3 feet high).

Empty Weight:

Weight of the sidecar unit itself. (Typical weight for a 1970s era sidecar could range from 150-250 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Combined weight capacity of the motorcycle and sidecar. The manual will provide load capacity limits.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

N/A (Crash test data for aftermarket or factory-attached sidecars from this era is not typically standardized or widely published. The manual will focus on structural integrity and proper installation for safety).

Handling Dynamics:

Information on how sidecar installation impacts braking, cornering, and stability. May include recommendations for tire pressures and suspension adjustments.

Structural Integrity:

Details on the mounting hardware, frame strength, and passenger seating safety features (if applicable).

💡 Technology Features

Sidecar Features:

N/A (No infotainment systems are inherent to this era's sidecar. Focus is on mechanical and structural aspects).

Handling Aids:

The manual's procedures for alignment and suspension adjustments are critical for ensuring safe and stable handling, acting as rudimentary 'assistance' for the rider in managing the combined vehicle.

Electrical Integration:

Details on how to connect any sidecar-specific lighting (e.g., auxiliary turn signals, running lights) to the host motorcycle's electrical system.

🔧 Maintenance

Wheel Bearings:

Likely recommends regular checks and lubrication of sidecar wheel bearings, similar to motorcycle wheel bearings, possibly every 5,000-10,000 miles or annually.

Suspension Checks:

Periodic inspection of the sidecar's shock absorber (if equipped) and suspension linkages for wear and proper function.

Mounting Hardware:

Crucial recommendation for checking the tightness of all mounting bolts and hardware connecting the sidecar to the motorcycle frame at regular intervals.

Wheel Bearing Grease:

The manual would specify the type and grade of grease suitable for the sidecar's wheel bearings (e.g., high-temperature, lithium-based grease).

Shock ABSorber Oil:

If the sidecar has a shock absorber, the manual would specify the type and viscosity of oil required for refilling or replacement.

Mounting Looseness:

A common issue with any sidecar is the potential for mounting hardware to loosen over time due to vibration, requiring diligent checks.

Tire Wear:

Uneven or premature tire wear on either the motorcycle or sidecar wheel can occur if alignment is not maintained.

Suspension Wear:

Wear in suspension bushings or pivot points can lead to instability and require replacement.

Specialty Tools:

The manual will likely list any specialized tools required for sidecar installation, alignment, or repair, beyond standard mechanic's tools.

📚 Vehicle History

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson has a long history of offering factory-approved sidecar options for their motorcycles, catering to riders seeking increased utility, passenger capacity, or stability.

Cle Sidecar Context:

The CLE sidecar was a specific model designed to integrate with Harley-Davidson motorcycles of that period, representing an effort to modernize and expand the utility of their popular bikes.

Production Period:

The 1979 model signifies a specific production year for this sidecar variant, likely produced over several years within the late 1970s and early 1980s.

📄 Vehicle Specs

Compatible Models:

The manual is specific to the CLE sidecar but implies compatibility with Harley-Davidson motorcycles of the 1979 era. Common pairings would include models like the FX Super Glide, FLH Electra Glide, and Sportster variants from that year, though specific attachment points might vary.

Engine Type Typical:

Likely designed for Harley-Davidson's iconic V-twin engines of the era, such as the Shovelhead (OHV V-twin), typically air-cooled.