Era:
Classic American V-twin touring motorcycles, representing a significant era of Harley-Davidson development.
Target Audience:
Owners, restorers, and mechanics specializing in vintage Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Comparison:
These models were Harley-Davidson's flagship touring machines, competing with other large-displacement motorcycles of the era, but holding a unique position in the American market.
Design:
Robust Shovelhead engine, traditional styling, comfortable touring ergonomics, often featuring saddlebags and fairings.
Engine:
Shovelhead V-twin, disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnosis, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled)
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh, disassembly, assembly, clutch operation, shift mechanism, lubrication
Frame And Suspension:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork (Duo Glide type), rear shock absorbers, wheel bearing service
Brakes:
Front and rear drum brake systems, linkage adjustment, lining inspection and replacement
Electrical System:
Ignition system (battery ignition, points, condenser), charging system (generator, regulator), lighting system, wiring diagrams, starter motor, horn
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Linkert, Keihin), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter maintenance
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, fairing (if equipped) service, seat, handlebars, control cables adjustment
Maintenance:
Routine lubrication points, oil change procedures, filter replacement, spark plug service, battery maintenance, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues
Repair:
Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, timing specifications, fluid capacities, wear limits
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and rebuilds
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF (if digital), high-resolution scans
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans for clarity, clear diagrams and illustrations
Binding Type:
Stapled or bound for durability (if printed reproduction)
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, resistant to shop fluids (if printed reproduction)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement Ci:
74 cubic inches (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by year and specific model)
Horsepower Est:
Around 55-60 HP @ 5000-5500 RPM (estimated)
Torque Est:
Around 65-70 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 RPM (estimated)
Carburetor Type:
Typically Linkert M74B or Keihin butterfly type carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating typically 87-91 (check specific recommendations)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends specific V-twin motorcycle oils, often mineral-based, with appropriate viscosity for ambient temperatures (e.g., SAE 50 or 20W-50). Check manual for precise spec.
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters), including oil filter
Oil Filter Part Number:
Commonly Harley-Davidson P/N 63796-77 or equivalent aftermarket (check specific application)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted, hand-clutched
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for these specific model years; 4-speed was standard.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Pints:
Approximately 1.5 pints (0.7 liters)
Wheelbase In:
Approximately 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length In:
Approximately 92 inches (2337 mm)
Seat Height In:
Approximately 30 inches (762 mm) (unladen)
Dry Weight Lbs:
Around 600-650 lbs (272-295 kg), depending on specific configuration (e.g., fairing, bags).
Fuel Tank Capacity Gallons:
Typically 4.0 gallons (15.1 liters) or 5.0 gallons (18.9 liters) for larger tanks.
Safety Ratings:
No formal NHTSA or equivalent ratings for motorcycles of this era.
Brakes:
Dual leading shoe front drum brake, single leading shoe rear drum brake.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (standard on Electra Glide, often optional on Super Glide).
Infotainment Features:
Basic, typically limited to an analog speedometer, odometer, and possibly an ammeter. No modern infotainment systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A. Motorcycle technology of this era was focused on mechanical reliability and basic rider control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. No electronic connectivity features.
Oil Change Miles:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or as needed.
Chain Adjustment Miles:
Check drive chain and primary chain tension every 1,000-1,500 miles (1,600-2,400 km).
Brake Adjustment:
Check and adjust brake pedal free play and lever free play regularly.
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific type and weight (often SAE 10W or 15W fork oil).
Brake Fluid Type:
Drum brakes typically do not use hydraulic fluid; check linkages and cable lubrication.
Engine Wear:
Valve guide wear, oil leaks from base gaskets and pushrod tubes, cam wear.
Electrical Issues:
Generator/regulator issues, wiring harness degradation, points ignition timing drift.
Transmission Problems:
Worn shift forks, damaged gears, clutch adjustment issues, primary chain adjustment drift.
Carburetor Tuning:
Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require specific tuning; Keihin carburetors are generally more reliable but may need jetting adjustments.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson's storied history of building American V-twin motorcycles, synonymous with freedom and the open road.
Electra Glide Heritage:
Evolved from the Hydra-Glide and Duo-Glide, representing the peak of Harley-Davidson's traditional touring platform before the introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight.
Super Glide Heritage:
The Super Glide introduced a sportier, custom look while retaining the touring chassis, offering a more versatile option.
Production Years:
Electra Glide and Super Glide variants were produced throughout the Shovelhead era (1966-1984).
Key Changes 1970-1972:
Minor updates to electrical systems, transmission refinements, and cosmetic styling cues across these years. Carburetor models could change.
