Motorcycle Segment:
Full-size Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, restorers, enthusiasts
Competitors 1978:
Honda Gold Wing, Kawasaki KZ1000 LTD, Yamaha XS Eleven
Vehicle Features Covered:
Iconic Harley-Davidson touring experience, robust V-twin engine, comfortable ride for long distances
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the classic 1978 Electra Glide FL, enabling DIY enthusiasts and professionals to keep their vintage bikes in top condition.
Engine:
Shovelhead V-Twin (1200cc, 74 cubic inch)
Transmission:
4-Speed Manual (4-speed Cruise Drive)
Electrical:
Ignition System (Points & Condenser), Charging System (Generator/Alternator, Regulator), Lighting System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Front Forks (Leading Link/Telescopic depending on variant), Rear Suspension (Shocks, Swingarm), Steering Head
Braking System:
Front Disc Brake, Rear Drum Brake
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly, Linkert), Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Petcock
Exhaust System:
Mufflers, Pipes, Clamps
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Fairing (if equipped), Saddlebags, Seat, Handlebars, Controls
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Chain Adjustments, Lubrication Points, Tire Pressure Checks
Repair:
Engine Rebuild (Top-end and Bottom-end), Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Service, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Carburetor Rebuild, Fork Seal Replacement
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete component-level breakdown and reassembly instructions
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common issues
Adjustments:
Carburetor Tuning, Ignition Timing, Clutch Adjustment, Brake Adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic values
Format:
Printed (Paperback/Hardcover)
Print Quality:
Professional offset printing, clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Likely stitched or perfect bound for durability
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to shop conditions
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement:
73.7 cubic inches (1208 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 107.9 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 7.0:1 (varies with head configuration)
Cylinder Heads:
Cast Iron
Engine Construction:
Cast Iron Cylinders, Aluminum Heads, Cast Aluminum Crankcase
Horsepower Rating:
Approximately 60-65 HP @ 5000 RPM (Estimate)
Torque Rating:
Approximately 65-70 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (Estimate)
Carburetor Type:
Typically Keihin Butterfly (e.g., CV) or Linkert M-series
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Length:
Approximately 90-95 inches (2286-2413 mm) (Varies with fairing and saddlebags)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg) (Varies with accessories)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly rated in modern terms, but capable of carrying rider and passenger plus luggage.
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing like automobiles)
Braking System:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake
Lighting:
Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals
Frame Construction:
Steel backbone frame
Ride Stability:
Designed for stable highway cruising
Infotainment System:
N/A (No integrated infotainment system)
Dashboard Gauges:
Speedometer, Tachometer (optional/standard depending on trim), Ammeter, Oil Pressure Light, Neutral Indicator, High Beam Indicator.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000 - 3,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Every 5,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/CD rated, SAE 20W-50 or 50W (refer to manual for exact recommendations, e.g., Mobil 1 V-Twin, Valvoline Motorcycle Oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 US quarts (2.8 L) (with filter change)
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 rated SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 24 US fluid ounces (0.71 L)
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
API GL-4 rated SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil, or dedicated primary fluid (e.g., Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approximately 32 US fluid ounces (0.95 L)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check caliper for specific type, likely older specification).
Engine Wear:
Valve guide wear, oil leaks from pushrod tubes and crankcase seals.
Transmission Issues:
Notchy shifting, potential for false neutrals, clutch throw-out bearing wear.
Electrical System Quirks:
Aging wiring harnesses, voltage regulator issues, points ignition tuning sensitivity.
Carburetor Performance:
Difficulty maintaining optimal idle and acceleration, especially with modern fuel blends.
Frame And Suspension:
Worn fork bushings, leaky rear shocks, steering head bearing adjustment.
Brand Reputation:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, synonymous with freedom, touring, and V-twin power.
Electra Glide Introduction:
Originally introduced in 1965 as the FL Electra Glide.
1970S Updates:
Transition from Panhead to Shovelhead engine, introduction of disc brakes, electric start (optional on some models).
1978 Significance:
Part of the Shovelhead era, a period of significant refinement and power increase for Harley-Davidson touring bikes.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Production Era:
FL models produced from 1965 onwards, Shovelhead from 1966-1984.
