Segment:
Lightweight, entry-level motorcycle for urban commuting and recreational riding.
Target Audience:
New riders, those seeking an economical and easy-to-maintain motorcycle.
Competitors:
Japanese manufacturers like Yamaha (DT series), Suzuki (TC series), and Kawasaki (G series) offered comparable two-stroke models in this displacement class.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, air-cooled engine, known for simplicity and good power-to-weight ratio.
Design Philosophy:
Harley-Davidson's attempt to capture a broader market segment with a smaller, more accessible motorcycle.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission, Drive Train, Frame, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Lubrication, Cooling, Exhaust, Bodywork, Tune-up Procedures, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Approximately 200-300 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely printed format, often found as a PDF digital version.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the 175cc two-stroke engine, including piston, rings, cylinder, crankshaft, bearings, seals, and gaskets.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding; fuel tank, fuel lines, and petcock maintenance.
Ignition System:
Spark plug specifications, timing procedures, magneto inspection and testing, ignition coil troubleshooting.
Clutch And Transmission:
Clutch plate inspection and replacement, transmission gear engagement, shift linkage adjustment, gearbox oil specifications.
Drive Train:
Chain adjustment and lubrication, sprocket inspection and replacement.
Frame And Suspension:
Frame inspection for damage, fork service, shock absorber maintenance, wheel bearing lubrication and adjustment.
Steering:
Handlebar bearing adjustment, steering head bearing maintenance.
Brakes:
Drum brake adjustment, shoe inspection and replacement, brake cable lubrication and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Headlight, taillight, brake light operation, horn, turn signals, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system checks.
Lubrication And Cooling:
Two-stroke oil mixture specifications, lubrication points for chassis components.
Bodywork:
Fender, tank, seat, and side cover removal and installation procedures.
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, lubrication intervals, fluid level checks, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common starting, running, and electrical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting trees.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Tune Up:
Engine tuning procedures, including carburetor and ignition timing adjustments for optimal performance.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for easy identification and troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Digital Format:
PDF (if digital), often optimized for searchability and printing.
Print Quality:
Original factory print quality, often featuring clear line drawings and photographs.
Binding Type:
Typically a saddle-stitched or perfect-bound booklet for printed versions.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
175cc, Two-Stroke, Single-Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 62 mm x 58 mm (typical for this displacement)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 6.5:1 to 7.5:1 for engines of this era.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 17-20 HP (est. at 7000-7500 RPM)
Torque:
Approximately 15-18 lb-ft (est. at 5000-6000 RPM)
Carburetor:
Single Mikuni or Keihin carburetor (e.g., VM28 or PWK type, specific model documented in manual)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with two-stroke oil mixture (e.g., 20:1 or 25:1, specified in manual)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 - 3.0 US gallons
Overall Length:
Approximately 78-82 inches (varies slightly)
Overall Width:
Approximately 32-36 inches (handlebar width)
Seat Height:
Approximately 29-31 inches
Dry Weight:
Approximately 250-280 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified with a GVWR in the same way as cars, but relates to rider and cargo capacity.
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety standards of the era. No formal crash ratings like modern vehicles.
Braking System:
Front and Rear Drum Brakes
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, Taillight, Brake Light, Turn Signals (if equipped)
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame providing structural integrity.
Oil Change Interval:
For the transmission: every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. For the 2-stroke mix: replenished with each fuel fill.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles, depending on operating conditions. The manual will detail the specific type and cleaning procedure.
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 SAE 80W or 90W gear oil. Specific Harley-Davidson part number will be in the manual.
Two Stroke Oil Type:
High-quality two-stroke oil, typically JASO FD or API TC rated. Mixing ratio specified in manual (e.g., 20:1).
Brake Fluid Type:
Not applicable as it uses drum brakes with cables, not hydraulic fluid.
Common Problems:
Typical 1970s two-stroke issues include carbon buildup in the exhaust and piston ports, carburetor jetting sensitivity, clutch wear, and electrical component reliability. Seal degradation is also common with age.
Maintenance Focus:
Regular cleaning of the carburetor and air filter, proper two-stroke oil mixing, and ignition timing adjustments are critical for optimal performance and longevity.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Long-standing American motorcycle manufacturer with a reputation for V-twin engines and classic styling, though the SS 175 represented a departure into smaller displacement two-stroke models.
Ss 175 Introduction:
Introduced as part of Harley-Davidson's efforts in the 1970s to compete in the growing lightweight and dual-sport motorcycle market, often utilizing technology from Italian acquisitions (e.g., Aermacchi).
Predecessors Successors:
Preceded by smaller Aermacchi-based models. Later Harley-Davidson models ventured into other lightweight segments or returned focus to larger displacement bikes.
Production Period:
The SS 175 was produced for a limited period, primarily in the mid-to-late 1970s.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured or assembled by Harley-Davidson in the USA, often with components or design influence from Aermacchi in Italy.
