🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide FX

Year:

1980

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential reference for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair the iconic 1980 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FX.

Competitors:

While factory manuals are the definitive source, aftermarket manuals from companies like Clymer or Haynes might exist, but this factory manual offers unparalleled accuracy and detail specific to the OEM procedures.

Features:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams, step-by-step procedures, factory-accurate specifications, troubleshooting guides.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete repair and maintenance for 1980 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FX

Additional Coverage:

Troubleshooting, adjustments, disassembly, assembly, specifications, schematics

Estimated Pages:

400-600

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Shovelhead V-Twin engine, including top-end and bottom-end overhaul, carburetor tuning, ignition system diagnostics, oiling system

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch service, gearcase and primary drive maintenance

Chassis:

Frame, front fork (leading axle), rear suspension, wheels, tires, and bearings

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition and starting systems, battery maintenance, charging system

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, including caliper and master cylinder service

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock, and carburetor (e.g., Keihin butterfly or Linkert, depending on specific FX variant)

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipes, mufflers, and mounting hardware

Bodywork:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, and any associated trim components

Maintenance:

Regular service intervals, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and mechanical noises

Repair:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustment, clutch adjustment, brake adjustment, chain tension adjustment

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical system diagnostics and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Printed publication with robust binding for workshop use.

Quality:

High-quality paper stock for durability, clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

Likely a saddle-stitched or perfect-bound paperback construction typical for service manuals of this era.

Paper:

Durable, semi-gloss paper designed to withstand workshop environments and repeated use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, OHV, 45-degree V-twin (Shovelhead)

Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1212 cc) or 80 cubic inches (1309 cc) depending on specific FX variant

Bore X Stroke:

74ci: 3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm); 80ci: 3.5 in. x 4.25 in. (88.9 mm x 107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.0:1 to 9.0:1, depending on specific engine build and ignition timing

Horsepower:

Approximately 55-65 HP (estimated, varies with tuning and specific engine)

Torque:

Approximately 65-75 ft-lbs (estimated, varies with tuning and specific engine)

Carburetor:

Likely a Keihin Butterfly or potentially a Linkert, depending on the specific FX configuration. Manual will detail tuning and overhaul.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation (typically 87-91 AKI)

Ignition Type:

Battery and coil, with points and condenser (unless later electronic ignition retrofits were common).

Oiling Type:

Dry sump with external oil tank

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual, critical for understanding performance and maintenance.

Primary Drive:

Chain drive (e.g., 1.5-inch, 21-tooth engine sprocket to 51-tooth transmission sprocket, subject to variation)

Final Drive:

Belt drive (e.g., 38-tooth rear pulley to 20-tooth transmission sprocket, subject to variation)

Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific HD-approved transmission fluid. Often heavier weight oils were used in the primary drive/transmission case.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 62 inches (1575 mm), subject to variation

Length:

Approximately 88 inches (2235 mm), subject to variation

Dry Weight:

Approximately 570-600 lbs (259-272 kg), subject to variation and installed accessories.

Fuel Capacity:

Typically 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters), with a reserve. Manual will confirm.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

As per DOT and relevant motorcycle safety standards of the era. Manual focuses on mechanical safety and proper functioning of components.

Braking System:

Hydraulic front disc brake, mechanical rear drum brake (typical for the FX model, manual will specify exact configurations).

Frame Construction:

Steel frame, designed for stability and handling characteristic of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (basic motorcycle of the era, no electronic infotainment systems).

Assistance Features:

N/A (basic motorcycle of the era).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (basic motorcycle of the era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km), or as specified in the manual for engine oil and transmission oil.

Primary Chain Tension:

Regular inspection and adjustment, often every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at intervals around 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km), depending on plug type and usage.

Engine Oil Type:

Consult manual for exact specifications. Harley-Davidson recommended specific weights of motor oil, often 20W-50 or 20W-40 for air-cooled V-twins of this era.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for dry sump, plus oil in the tank. Manual will have precise figures.

Transmission Oil Type:

Refer to manual. Often a heavier gear oil or specific primary drive fluid was used.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid, depending on original specification. Manual will specify.

Shifter Lever Play:

Wear in the shifter pawl or linkage can lead to sloppy shifting. Manual provides adjustment and repair procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Common at base of cylinders, rocker boxes, and primary cover due to aging gaskets and seals. Manual guides on seal replacement.

Carburetor Performance:

Older carburetors can suffer from wear, gumming, and vacuum leaks, affecting idle and acceleration. Manual is key for diagnosis and rebuilding.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion or looseness in wiring connectors can cause intermittent electrical issues. Manual's wiring diagrams are essential.

Fork Seals:

Leaking front fork seals are common with age. Manual provides fork oil change and seal replacement instructions.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, a legendary American motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1903. Known for its V-twin engines and cruiser/touring motorcycles.

Super Glide Evolution:

The Super Glide was introduced in 1971 as Harley-Davidson's first factory-custom motorcycle, featuring a 'cruiser' styling with a low-slung profile. The FX designation indicated the frame type (often referred to as 'Dyna' frames in later generations, but this era used FX frames). The 1980 model represents an evolution of this concept with Shovelhead power.

Manufacturing Era:

The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984. The Super Glide FX was a key model within this period, evolving in styling and components.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Super Glide is a significant model in Harley-Davidson's history, representing the early 'factory custom' trend. While specific awards for the 1980 model are unlikely, it contributed to the brand's enduring legacy.

User Ratings:

Historically, the Shovelhead era bikes are appreciated by enthusiasts for their raw character, though known for requiring more frequent attention than modern motorcycles. This manual is crucial for maintaining their reliability.