🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Model Variant:

FX, FXE, FXS

Engine Displacement:

1200cc

Chassis Code Prefix:

FX

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The definitive guide for owners and technicians of the iconic Harley-Davidson Super Glide models of the 1970s.

Competitors:

Other era-specific Harley-Davidson service manuals, unofficial repair guides.

Features:

Covers a critical decade of Super Glide development and evolution, detailed technical diagrams, comprehensive troubleshooting.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978

Models Covered:

Super Glide (FX), Super Glide Electric Start (FXE), Super Glide Sport (FXS)

Estimated Page Count:

High (typically 500+ pages for a complete workshop manual of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed overhaul, troubleshooting, ignition system (points and electronic), carburetion (Linkert, Keihin), lubrication, cooling (air-cooled)

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh, clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, final drive (chain)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), ignition switch, starter motor (for FXE), instrumentation

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame inspection and repair, front fork (leading axle, trailing axle variations), rear suspension (shocks and springs), swingarm

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (drum, early disc introductions), master cylinder, caliper service, brake fluid specifications

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock, carburetor service and tuning

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, handlebars, control cables, basic body panel alignment

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, tire pressure checks, chain adjustment, brake adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely (depending on scan quality of original)

Quality:

Variable (dependent on original source and digitization)

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Bore X Stroke:

Approximately 3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm) for 74 cu. in. (1213cc) models

Compression Ratio:

Typically 7.0:1 to 8.0:1, varies by model year and tuning

Valvetrain:

Pushrod-operated overhead valves

Horsepower:

Estimated 50-60 HP (varies significantly by year and tuning)

Torque:

Estimated 60-70 ft-lbs (varies significantly by year and tuning)

Carburetor:

Harley-Davidson Linkert (early models), Keihin Butterfly Carburetor (later models)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, octane rating appropriate for the era (e.g., 87-91 octane)

Ignition Type:

Battery-coil ignition with breaker points, later models may have electronic ignition options.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed constant mesh manual transmission

Options:

N/A (4-speed manual was standard)

Clutch:

Wet multi-plate clutch

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)

Length:

Approximately 90 inches (2286 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 550-600 lbs (250-270 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 gallons (15.1 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Ratings:

Not applicable to motorcycles of this era in the same way as automobiles.

Features:

Effective braking systems (for the era), stable chassis geometry.

Features:

Robust frame construction.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer - optional, oil pressure light, ignition indicator), typically no audio or navigation systems.

Features:

N/A (no electronic driver assistance systems common to modern vehicles).

Features:

N/A (no digital connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 1,000-2,000 miles (1,600-3,200 km) or 6 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 2,000-4,000 miles (3,200-6,400 km).

Chain Adjustment:

As needed, typically checked during every 1,000-mile service.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommended 20W50 or similar multi-viscosity oil (consult manual for specific API classification).

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommended transmission lubricant (often a heavier weight gear oil, consult manual for specific grade).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (ensure compatibility with seals).

Primary Chain Case Oil Type:

Typically shared engine oil or specific primary lubricant.

Common Issues:

Points ignition system tuning, carburetor adjustment, primary chain wear, oil leaks, electrical connector corrosion.

Parts Availability:

While some parts are still available or reproduced, specialized vintage parts may require sourcing from aftermarket suppliers or vintage Harley specialists.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for its V-twin engines and classic styling.

Evolution:

The Super Glide was Harley-Davidson's first major redesign since the 1940s, introducing a more modern chassis and styling that would influence future models. The FXE introduced electric start as a significant convenience.

Production Period:

1970-1978 for the covered models.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognition:

The Super Glide is recognized as a landmark model in Harley-Davidson history, influencing its design language for decades. It established the 'cruiser' archetype for many riders.