Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and restorers of the iconic 1968 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
Comparison To Alternatives:
This manual offers a level of detail and comprehensiveness typically found in factory service manuals, crucial for accurate restoration and maintenance of vintage V-twins.
Unique Selling Points:
Detailed Shovelhead engine rebuild procedures, comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides specific to the 1968 model year.
Engines Covered:
Shovelhead OHV V-twin
Transmission Types Covered:
4-speed Constant Mesh
Chassis Systems Covered:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (drum)
Electrical System Covered:
Ignition, lighting, charging system, battery, wiring diagrams
Bodywork Covered:
Fuel tank, fenders, fairing (if equipped), saddlebags, seat
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely paper, potentially digital PDF available)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque specifications, tolerances for cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing gears
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert M-series) tuning, rebuilding, jetting, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Ignition System:
Magneto/Distributor operation, timing, spark plug specifications, coil testing
Transmission Overhaul:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gear inspection, bearing replacement, shift linkage adjustment
Brake System:
Drum brake service, shoe inspection and replacement, cable adjustment
Suspension And Steering:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil specifications and levels, steering head bearing adjustment, shock absorber service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams for lighting, charging, starting, ignition; troubleshooting common electrical faults
Lubrication System:
Oil pump operation, oil filter replacement, oil pressure testing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, cable adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common mechanical and electrical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and rebuilding
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and carburetor overhauls
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Bodywork Repair:
Instructions for minor bodywork, fender alignment, and saddlebag mounting/repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic tune-ups to full engine rebuilds
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans, searchable text (if PDF)
Searchability:
Searchable PDF format allows for quick access to specific information.
Paper Quality:
Durable, glossy paper suitable for workshop environments
Binding:
Professional (stapled, saddle-stitched, or perfect bound) for durability
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1213 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (approximate, may vary slightly)
Power Output:
Estimated 50-55 hp @ 5500 RPM (peak horsepower not officially published for this era)
Torque Output:
Estimated 60-65 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM
Carburetor:
Linkert M-series (e.g., M74B, M74C)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (ROZ+MON)/2 rating
Ignition Type:
Battery-coil ignition or Magneto (depending on specific sub-model or option)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 630-650 lbs (286-295 kg)
Gvwr:
Not typically specified in the same manner as cars, but rider and payload capacity is implied
Safety Certification:
Not applicable in modern automotive safety rating contexts.
Braking System:
Drum brakes front and rear
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (depending on configuration)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Primary Chain Case Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,000 miles or annually.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson approved SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50 motorcycle oil. Consult manual for exact specifications and alternatives.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or SAE 50 motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check manual for era-specific recommendations).
Fork Oil:
Appropriate weight fork oil, typically SAE 10W or 15W. Refer to manual for specific quantity and type.
Leaks:
Common leak points include primary chain case, transmission, and engine seals/gaskets due to age and material degradation.
Carburetor Issues:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky; requires meticulous cleaning and adjustment. Diaphragm and jet wear are common.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, loose connections, and failing regulators/stators can lead to intermittent electrical problems.
Shifter Mechanism:
Wear in the shifter pawl or linkage can lead to popping out of gear or difficult shifting.
Brake Performance:
Drum brakes of this era offer significantly less stopping power than modern systems; requires consistent adjustment and clean shoes/drums.
Brand Establishment:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903, is synonymous with American motorcycle culture and cruiser motorcycles.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The Electra Glide line was introduced in 1965, quickly becoming the flagship touring motorcycle for Harley-Davidson.
1968 Model Significance:
The 1968 model year marked a transition period for Harley-Davidson, with the introduction of the Shovelhead engine becoming standard across larger models, replacing the Panhead.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Historical Context:
This era saw Harley-Davidson facing significant competition from Japanese manufacturers, making continued development and robust service documentation crucial.
