Target Audience:
Owners, enthusiasts, and professional mechanics working on Harley-Davidson SS SX 175 and 250 models from the mid-1970s. Caters to both DIY and professional repair scenarios.
Manual Value:
Provides essential, manufacturer-backed information crucial for maintaining and repairing these classic models. Fills the gap for accessible, detailed technical data for a specific era of Harley-Davidson small displacement bikes.
Ease Of Use:
Designed for clarity, allowing users of varying skill levels to follow procedures. The description highlights its utility for both beginners and professionals.
Completeness:
Aims to provide all necessary information for repair and maintenance, suggesting it covers a broad spectrum of tasks.
Years Covered:
1974, 1975, 1976, and later models (specific later years depend on manual edition and updates).
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North American and European specifications, common for Harley-Davidson).
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 300-500+ pages, depending on the specific edition and number of variants covered. (Actual count not provided, but based on typical workshop manuals).
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Printed Book or Digital PDF. (Product description is vague, but historically these were printed).
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for both the 175cc and 250cc engines. Includes carburetor, ignition, cooling (if applicable), exhaust, and lubrication systems.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, shifting mechanisms, and associated components. Maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, hubs, spokes, and tires.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes for this era), including linkage, cables, and brake shoe replacement.
Electrical:
Ignition system (points, coil, spark plug), lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery, charging system (if applicable), and wiring diagrams.
Bodywork:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, control levers, footpegs, and miscellaneous trim. Includes painting and detailing advice.
Maintenance:
Regular service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, ignition timing, carburetor adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, and fault finding for all major systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation. Detailed rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and suspension.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Suitable for novice owners performing basic maintenance to professional mechanics undertaking full engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics. Covers disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major components.
Digital Format:
If PDF, typically searchable text, high-resolution images/diagrams, and printable pages.
Print Quality:
If printed, expect good quality paper, clear text, and legible diagrams and photographs.
Binding:
If printed, likely a sturdy bound format (e.g., spiral-bound or perfect bound) suitable for shop use.
Paper Quality:
If printed, typically on durable, semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop environments and repeated use.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, air-cooled single-cylinder (typical for these models).
Displacement:
173cc (for SS/SX 175 models) and 248cc (for SS/SX 250 models).
Bore X Stroke:
Specific dimensions for both 175cc and 250cc variants would be detailed in the manual. (Example: 175cc ~ 62mm x 57mm; 250cc ~ 68mm x 68mm - actual values in manual).
Horsepower Estimate:
Estimated 15-20 HP for 175cc and 20-25 HP for 250cc. (Specific figures would be in manual).
Torque Estimate:
Torque figures would vary by engine size and RPM. (Specific figures in manual).
Carburetion:
Typically a single carburetor, likely from Mikuni or similar. Specific model and jetting details will be in the manual.
Fuel Type:
Gasoline/oil mixture (pre-mix) for two-stroke engines. Specific octane rating and oil ratio would be specified.
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points ignition, typically with a 6V or 12V system. Manual will detail timing, dwell, and component testing.
Transmission Type:
Manual, multi-speed (likely 5-speed or 6-speed) constant mesh gearbox.
Optional Transmissions:
None typically offered for these models.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate clutch.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each speed would be detailed in the manual.
Final Drive:
Chain drive. Manual covers chain maintenance, adjustment, and sprockets.
Wheelbase:
Specific wheelbase for 175cc and 250cc models will be in the manual. (Typical for this era: ~53-55 inches).
Length:
Specific overall length in the manual.
Width:
Specific overall width in the manual.
Dry Weight:
Estimated 220-260 lbs (100-120 kg) for 175cc; 240-280 lbs (110-130 kg) for 250cc. (Precise figures in manual).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR would be in the manual, depending on frame and components.
Safety Certifications:
While specific crash ratings for motorcycles of this era are rare, the manual will cover safe operating procedures and component integrity.
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes front and rear. Manual details adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, and potentially turn signals. Manual covers bulb types, aiming, and electrical checks.
Tires:
Manual will specify recommended tire sizes and pressures for safe handling.
Infotainment Features:
N/A - These models predate modern infotainment systems. Focus is on basic functional controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A - No electronic driver assistance features.
Connectivity Features:
N/A - No electronic connectivity features.
Ignition Technology:
Points and condenser ignition system. Manual provides detailed troubleshooting and adjustment for this mechanical system.
Oil Change Interval:
Specific interval for gearbox oil change (e.g., every 2,000-4,000 miles or annually). Manual provides exact schedule.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended intervals for spark plug inspection and replacement. Manual will list compatible plug types and gap settings.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Regular chain lubrication and tension adjustment are critical for two-stroke bikes. Manual details frequency and procedures.
Transmission Oil Type:
Specific gear oil viscosity and type (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 10W-30). Manual specifies the correct fluid.
Two Stroke Oil Type:
Recommendation for the type and brand of two-stroke oil to be mixed with fuel. Manual will specify API service classification or specific Harley-Davidson recommendation.
Brake Fluid:
If brake fluid is used (less common on drum brakes of this era, but check manual), type (e.g., DOT 3) would be specified.
Common Wear Items:
Piston rings, crankshaft seals, clutch plates, and ignition points are common wear items for two-stroke motorcycles of this vintage. Manual provides guidance on inspection and replacement.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetor jetting and tuning can be sensitive to altitude, temperature, and engine wear. Manual details proper procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older electrical systems can develop issues with wiring integrity, grounds, and connections. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are essential.
Harley Davidson Era:
These models represent a period where Harley-Davidson explored smaller displacement, more accessible motorcycles, often aimed at younger riders or utility use, distinct from their traditional large V-twin cruisers.
Predecessors Successors:
These models followed other Harley-Davidson two-strokes and were part of the brand's diversification before focusing heavily on V-twins again. Later Harley-Davidson small displacement models emerged in different forms.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily produced in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Market Segment:
Entry-level sport/utility motorcycles. Competed with Japanese manufacturers' offerings in the segment.
