Market Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle, a flagship model for Harley-Davidson in the early 1980s.
Competitors:
Primarily other American V-twin touring bikes, and to some extent, European and Japanese large displacement motorcycles of the era.
Design Philosophy:
Robust, air-cooled V-twin engine, comfortable riding position for long distances, classic cruiser styling.
Target Audience:
Touring riders, law enforcement agencies, and enthusiasts seeking the iconic Harley-Davidson experience.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Harley-Davidson FL 1200 (Electra Glide) 1981 model year.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes adjustment procedures, disassembly, assembly, and installation of various components.
Page Count:
Likely 200-400 pages (typical for a factory service manual of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Printed document (assumed based on description; digital formats may exist separately)
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling system (air-cooled), valve train, cylinder heads, cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly or Linkert, depending on exact spec), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable).
Ignition System:
Battery, coil, distributor (points-based or early electronic), spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustments.
Transmission:
4-speed manual gearbox (e.g., the famous '4-speed' transmission), clutch operation, gear selection, internal components, fluid types.
Drivetrain:
Primary drive (chain, clutch), final drive (belt drive or chain drive depending on FL sub-variant), wheel bearings, axle maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes for the era, potentially early disc brake options), master cylinders, brake lines, caliper/wheel cylinder service, fluid types.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits, battery charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, switches, gauges, horn.
Suspension:
Front forks (e.g., leading axle or hydraulic forks), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, lubrication, adjustment procedures.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, alignment, steering head bearings, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, fairing (if equipped), instrumentation, saddlebags, lubrication points.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks, chain/belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems, causes and remedies for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts, including torque specifications and alignment.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed breakdown of major components like the engine, transmission, and wheels.
Depth Level:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair, suitable for skilled mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts. Covers complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 7.0:1 to 8.0:1, depending on specific tuning and variant.
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 65-70 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)
Engine Speed Governor:
Likely equipped with a mechanical governor for over-rev protection.
Carburetor Type:
Likely a Keihin Butterfly or Tillotson diaphragm carburetor; Linkert carburetors were phasing out.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating recommended around 91-93 (RON+MON)/2.
Oil Type Engine:
Specialized motorcycle engine oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson 20W50 or equivalent V-twin specific oil), NOT automotive oil.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Constant Mesh Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Options:
N/A for FL 1200 (4-speed was standard)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, but generally optimized for touring torque.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dedicated transmission lubricant, often Harley-Davidson's own 4-speed transmission oil or equivalent.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact mileage.
Primary Chain Tension:
Regular checks and adjustment as per manual, usually every few thousand miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles, but subject to condition.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (if equipped with disc brakes). Check manual for specific caliper type.
Leaks:
Common leak points include pushrod tubes, cylinder base gaskets, and primary cover gaskets due to age and material degradation.
Electrical Reliability:
Original electrical components (e.g., regulators, stators) can be prone to failure. Upgrades are common.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors of this era can require frequent adjustments and rebuilds for optimal performance.
Shifter Mechanism:
Wear in the shifter pawls or linkage can lead to false neutrals or missed shifts.
Brand Origin:
Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.
Fl Lineage:
The FL designation represents Harley-Davidson's traditional large displacement, V-twin cruiser/touring motorcycles. The FL 1200 evolved from earlier Big Twin models.
Shovelhead Era:
The 1981 model falls within the 'Shovelhead' engine era (introduced in 1966), known for its distinctive rocker box covers.
Production Period:
The Shovelhead engine family, including the 1200cc variants, was produced from 1966 to 1984.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA