🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Electra Glide

Model Variant:

Super Glide

Year:

1970

Vin Decoder Pattern:

N/A for this era of motorcycles, VINs were not standardized as they are today.

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Iconic American cruiser motorcycle, known for touring capabilities and V-twin performance.

Competitors 1970:

At this time, Harley-Davidson held a dominant position in the American cruiser market. Competitors would include larger displacement British motorcycles like Triumph and Norton, and emerging Japanese manufacturers offering larger capacity models, though few directly matched the Electra Glide's touring focus and V-twin character.

Touring Focus:

Designed for long-distance riding with large fairing (often referred to as the 'batwing' fairing), comfortable seating, and luggage capacity.

Engine Configuration:

Classic Harley-Davidson V-twin engine architecture.

Manual Utility:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics to maintain, repair, and restore the 1970 Electra Glide Super Glide.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full service, repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for 1970 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Super Glide models.

Estimated Page Count:

300+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable. Original factory manual format.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, tuning, internal components (pistons, cylinders, crankshaft, camshafts), lubrication system.

Transmission:

4-speed gearbox, clutch operation, shifting mechanism, lubrication, troubleshooting, rebuild procedures.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (e.g., Linkert or early Keihin models), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter, tuning, cleaning, and rebuilding.

Ignition System:

Points and condenser ignition, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing procedures, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), starter motor, electrical component testing.

Braking System:

Front and rear brake mechanisms (likely drum brakes), hydraulic components (if applicable), adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting.

Suspension:

Front forks (e.g., leading-link or telescopic), rear shock absorbers, lubrication, maintenance, seal replacement.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat mounting, fairing components (if equipped).

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire pressure recommendations, wheel balancing (if applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic guides for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine teardown, inspection, measurement of wear, component replacement, and reassembly.

Transmission Rebuild:

Gearbox disassembly, inspection of gears and shafts, seal replacement, and reassembly.

Electrical Component Repair:

Testing and repair of starter motor, generator, ignition components, switches, and lighting.

Carburetor Tuning And Rebuild:

Detailed steps for adjusting idle speed, air-fuel mixture, and rebuilding carburetor for optimal performance.

Brake Service:

Drum brake inspection, adjustment, and replacement of shoes/pads.

Fork Service:

Front fork oil changes, seal replacement, and general maintenance.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable, Printable)

Original Print Quality:

High (typical of factory service manuals of the era, often with clear line drawings and schematics).

Original Binding:

Stapled or bound paperback (typical for factory service manuals).

Original Paper Type:

Durable paper stock designed for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, OHV (Overhead Valve), 45-degree V-twin

Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1200cc) - commonly referred to as the 'Shovelhead' engine, though 1970 models are transitional before the full Shovelhead evolution.

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically around 7.0:1 to 7.4:1 depending on specific variant and tuning.

Horsepower Estimated:

Approximately 50-55 hp @ 5000 RPM (manufacturer figures were often conservative).

Torque Estimated:

Approximately 65-70 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM.

Carburetor Type:

Often a Linkert M74 or M74B, or early Keihin butterfly type.

Fuel Type:

Leaded gasoline (higher octane recommended).

Fuel Delivery:

Gravity feed from fuel tank.

Oil System:

Dry sump system with oil tank separate from the crankcase. Oil pump driven by camshaft.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for engine and oil tank combined.

Recommended Oil:

Viscosity: SAE 50 or SAE 20W-50. Type: Motorcycle-specific oil with ZDDP additive recommended for older flat-tappet engines. Harley-Davidson's original recommendation was often straight 50 weight. Consult manual for specific oil specifications.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched.

Gear Ratios Typical:

1st: ~2.44:1, 2nd: ~1.77:1, 3rd: ~1.37:1, 4th: 1.00:1 (Ratios varied slightly by year and model).

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate clutch, operated by cable.

Final Drive:

Chain drive.

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission oil. SAE 50 or SAE 60 often recommended. Consult manual for specific GL classification.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 62.5 inches (1588 mm).

Length:

Approximately 90 inches (2286 mm).

Dry Weight:

Approximately 580-620 lbs (263-281 kg) depending on accessories.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A for motorcycles as per modern standards, but rider and cargo capacity is significant.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not applicable to motorcycles of this era.

Braking System:

Front and rear drum brakes. Dual front discs were not standard on this model in 1970.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Not equipped with factory-installed audio systems. Aftermarket radios were common additions.

Rider Aids:

None. This era of motorcycle relies solely on rider skill and mechanical operation.

Digital Features:

No digital features or connectivity. Purely mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or annually, whichever comes first. More frequent changes may be beneficial for heavily used or older engines.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 6,000-10,000 miles (9,600-16,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.

Chain Adjustment:

Check and adjust every 1,000-2,000 miles (1,600-3,200 km) or as slack increases. Typical slack around 1/2 to 3/4 inch.

Brake Adjustment:

Regularly inspect and adjust drum brakes for proper engagement and return.

Engine Oil Type Spec:

SAE 50 or SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (with ZDDP).

Transmission Oil Type Spec:

SAE 50 or SAE 60 Motorcycle Transmission Oil.

Primary Chain Case Oil Type Spec:

Harley-Davidson primary oil or equivalent SAE 50-60 oil.

Fork Oil Type Spec:

30W or 10W fork oil, depending on preference and manual recommendation for damping.

Ignition Timing:

Points and condenser ignition can be prone to wear and require frequent adjustment for optimal performance.

Carburetor Issues:

Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment; leaks from fuel lines or gaskets are common.

Oil Leaks:

Common due to aging seals and gaskets. The dry sump system requires attention to oil tank seals and lines.

Brake Performance:

Drum brakes are less effective than modern disc brakes and require regular adjustment and careful maintenance.

Generator Charging System:

The generator system is less efficient than later alternators and may require maintenance for consistent charging.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Founding:

Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.

Electra Glide Introduction:

The Electra Glide line was introduced in 1965, featuring the electric starter. The Super Glide model, introduced in 1971, shared many characteristics with the 1970 Electra Glide but had a distinct frame design and often different styling cues (e.g., the 'bottom-mounted' fairing on the '71 Super Glide).

1970 Model Year Characteristics:

The 1970 model represents a significant year for Harley-Davidson, continuing the evolution of the FL series and the introduction of the 'Shovelhead' engine (though early versions had Panhead-like top ends). This year bridges the gap between the Panhead and the fully developed Shovelhead era.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Period Context:

1970 was a challenging but pivotal year for Harley-Davidson, facing increased competition and internal management changes.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The Electra Glide is an automotive icon, representing a significant chapter in American motorcycling history and the foundation for modern Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles.