Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, enthusiasts, and professional mechanics seeking detailed service and repair information for the specified model years and variants. Essential for maintaining and restoring these classic motorcycles.
Value Proposition:
Offers comprehensive, year-specific information vital for the upkeep and restoration of iconic Harley-Davidson models. A critical resource for DIY repairs, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Manual Strengths:
Covers a broad range of models and a significant decade of production, providing unified service information. Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step instructions crucial for complex repairs.
Years Covered:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
Estimated Pages:
Refer to product listing for exact page count; typically 400-700+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals.
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (typically PDF)
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (Shovelhead, Panhead variations), Transmission (4-speed, 5-speed), Drivetrain, Clutch, Ignition System, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System (Air-Cooled), Exhaust System, Braking System (Drum, Disc variations), Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Shocks), Frame, Wheels, Tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Starting System, Charging System (Generator/Alternator), Gauges and Instruments, Battery, Fuses and Circuit Breakers, Accessories
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tire Pressure Checks, Brake Pad Inspection, Chain Adjustment, Spark Plug Replacement, Carburetor Adjustment, Battery Maintenance
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuild, Transmission Repair and Rebuild, Clutch Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Fork Seal Replacement, Shock Absorber Replacement, Carburetor Rebuilding, Ignition System Troubleshooting and Repair, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Tire Mounting and Balancing
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical System Diagnostics, Engine Performance Issues, Fuel System Problems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications. Suitable for both amateur and professional mechanics.
Digital Format Details:
PDF, typically high-resolution for clarity of diagrams and text. Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans or digitally produced documents ensuring legibility of all diagrams, illustrations, and text. Optimized for screen viewing and printing.
Print Binding Type:
N/A (Downloadable format)
Print Paper Type:
N/A (Downloadable format)
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Shovelhead V-Twin
Engine Variants:
Primarily 74 cubic inch (1200cc) and 80 cubic inch (1340cc) OHV Air-Cooled V-Twin engines. Panhead engines may be referenced for earlier models or specific components.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60-70 HP (Varies by year and specific tuning).
Torque Range:
Approximately 70-85 ft-lbs (Varies by year and specific tuning).
Carburetor Types:
Typically Keihin butterfly, Linkert (early models), or similar carburetor configurations. Includes tuning and rebuilding procedures.
Ignition System:
Breaker Point ignition systems, with potential for electronic ignition conversion details or troubleshooting for both.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Constant Mesh (common), with potential 5-speed variants emerging in later years of this period.
Transmission Components:
Clutch (Wet Multi-plate), Primary Drive (Chain), Gearbox, Final Drive (Belt or Chain depending on model).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommended transmission fluids. Typically a heavy-duty gear oil.
Safety Compliance:
Focuses on mechanical and electrical safety features as per Harley-Davidson specifications for the era. No formal crash ratings apply to motorcycles in the same way as automobiles.
Braking System Type:
Front disc brakes (introduced in this era), rear drum brakes common. Manual details inspection, maintenance, and repair of both systems.
Lighting System:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals. Manual covers bulb replacement, wiring, and troubleshooting.
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional on some models), oil pressure gauge, ammeter, turn signal indicators, neutral indicator light. Manual details calibration and repair.
ABS Availability:
Not available on models from this era.
Charging System:
Generators or alternators. Manual details testing, repair, and replacement procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual provides precise intervals.
Primary Chain Tension Check:
Frequent checks recommended, often at 1,000-mile intervals. Manual details procedure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles. Manual will specify exact type and gap.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; typically SAE 50 or SAE 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil. Some models may have a separate transmission oil or a combined system.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Refer to manual; typically Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 for disc brake systems. Manual will specify exact type and bleeding procedures.
Common Wear Items:
Primary chain tensioner wear, cam follower wear, oil leaks (especially from rocker boxes and crankcase seals), carburetor adjustment issues, early disc brake caliper issues, electrical system reliability in humid conditions.
Shovelhead Engine Considerations:
Known for a distinctive exhaust note, but can be prone to oil consumption and thermal management challenges. Proper maintenance is key. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its cruiser motorcycles and distinctive V-twin engines.
Shovelhead Era:
This period (1970-1979) represents the Shovelhead era for Harley-Davidson, a significant evolution from the Panhead engine, featuring a distinctive cast aluminum cylinder head design. The FL/FLH models are the touring/cruiser lines, while the FX models introduced the 'Super Glide' concept, often featuring AMF-era styling and engineering.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania).
Brand Recognition:
Harley-Davidson is consistently recognized as a leading manufacturer of V-twin motorcycles, with a dedicated global following and strong cultural impact.
Vintage Motorcycle Value:
Models from this era, particularly well-maintained examples, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, often appreciating in value.
