Target Audience:
Owners and mechanics specializing in classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles
Value Proposition:
Provides authentic, factory-sourced repair and maintenance information critical for preserving and servicing the iconic 1979 Electra Glide FLH.
Content Authenticity:
Derived directly from original Harley-Davidson factory service documentation.
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasis on troubleshooting and repair procedures for the specific components of the 1979 model year.
Engine:
Shovelhead V-Twin Engine (74 cu in / 1200cc)
Transmission:
4-Speed Constant Mesh
Electrical System:
Ignition, Lighting, Charging System, Instrumentation
Fuel System:
Carburetion (e.g., Keihin butterfly or Linkert) and Fuel Delivery
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Forks, Rear Shocks, Wheel Bearings
Braking System:
Front Disc Brake, Rear Drum Brake
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing, Saddlebags, Fenders, Tank
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Chain Adjustment (if applicable), Brake Adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems and systematic repair steps
Engine Overhaul:
Top-end and bottom-end rebuild procedures, piston and cylinder inspection/replacement
Transmission Service:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fault finding
Brake System Repair:
Disc pad replacement, caliper service, drum shoe adjustment
Suspension And Steering:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin OHV
Displacement:
73.7 cu in (1208cc)
Bore:
3.4375 in (87.31 mm)
Stroke:
4.25 in (107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Valve Actuation:
Pushrod actuated overhead valves
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 65-70 HP @ 5500 RPM (net)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Carburetor Type:
Typically Keihin butterfly CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor, though some earlier models or replacements might use Linkert.
Fuel Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil with Breaker Points and Condenser
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended motorcycle oil (e.g., 20W50, or equivalent SAE 50 if recommended for break-in)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change
Oil Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual for specific part number; common aftermarket equivalents exist.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted with hand clutch
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain in oil bath
Final Drive:
Belt drive or Chain drive (depending on specific configuration of FLH model)
Gear Selection:
Heel-toe shifter operation
Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent SAE 75W90 gear oil
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1 US pint (0.47 liters)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 62.5 inches (1588 mm)
Length:
Approximately 95 inches (2413 mm)
Height:
Varies with fairing and seat configuration; typically around 55-60 inches (1397-1524 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg)
Gvwr:
Not typically specified for motorcycles in the same way as cars, but laden weight should be considered.
Front Wheel Size:
16 inch
Front Tire Size:
3.50-16 or 4.00-16
Rear Tire Size:
4.00-16 or 5.00-16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (spoked wheels with axle mounting)
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet relevant motorcycle safety standards of the era (e.g., DOT regulations for lighting and brakes).
Braking System:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake system for controlled deceleration.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals for visibility and communication.
Radio:
Optional factory or aftermarket radio installation common for touring models of this era.
Speaker System:
Often integrated into fairing or saddlebags where applicable.
Cruise Control:
Not typically standard; available as an aftermarket accessory or dealer option for touring models.
Navigation:
N/A (pre-digital era).
Headlight Type:
Halogen (typically sealed beam unit)
Dashboard Features:
Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel Gauge, Ammeter, Indicator Lights (Oil Pressure, Neutral, Turn Signals)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Regular inspection recommended as part of primary drive maintenance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 5,000-7,000 miles.
Brake Adjustment:
As needed, or every 3,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W50 or SAE 50
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
SAE 75W90 Gear Oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (for disc brake systems, refer to manual for specific caliper type)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common in Shovelhead engines due to seal wear and case joint seals. Manual provides procedures for addressing these.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetors require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy. Manual details tuning procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Vintage electrical systems can be prone to loose connections, corrosion, and failing components. Comprehensive wiring diagrams are crucial.
Shifter Mechanism Wear:
Wear in the transmission shift linkage can lead to difficult shifting. Manual covers inspection and adjustment.
Founding:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company founded in 1903.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide has been a flagship model since the mid-1960s, evolving from the FL series, representing the pinnacle of touring motorcycles.
1979 Significance:
1979 marked a period of refinement for the Shovelhead engine and chassis, solidifying the Electra Glide's reputation as a capable long-distance cruiser.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Era Context:
The late 1970s was a time of significant development for American motorcycles, with Harley-Davidson focusing on performance and comfort for its touring models.
