Positioning:
A crucial resource for owners and mechanics of the iconic 1979 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXE, a significant model in the evolution of Harley's Big Twin cruiser.
Manual Value:
Provides manufacturer-backed procedures, essential for accurate and safe maintenance and repairs, outperforming generic guides.
User Friendliness:
Designed as a handy, easy-to-read reference for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
Primary Coverage:
Repair and maintenance procedures for the 1979 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXE.
Estimated Pages:
Varies (Typical factory service manuals of this era are 200-500 pages)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Printed (as described by product info, though digital versions may exist)
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, component identification.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, primary drive, final drive maintenance and repair.
Electrical System:
Ignition, lighting, charging system, starter, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake service, hydraulic systems, components.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork, rear shocks, steering head bearing service.
Frame Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat, fenders.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and their solutions.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete guide to taking apart and reassembling major motorcycle systems.
Adjustments:
Carburetor, ignition timing, clutch, brake adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Digital Quality:
N/A (Assumed printed, but if digital, would assess clarity and searchability)
Paper Quality:
Typically durable paper stock for shop use in original factory manuals.
Binding:
Likely bound with staples or sewn/glued for lay-flat usability in a shop environment.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Shovelhead)
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1210cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 7.0:1 to 7.5:1 (varies slightly by specific engine build)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 55-60 HP (estimated at crankshaft)
Torque Estimate:
Approximately 70-75 ft-lbs (estimated at crankshaft)
Carburetor:
Keihin butterfly or Linkert carburetor (depending on specific build variations).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane rating (check manual for exact specifications).
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil, breaker points ignition system.
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Roller chain drive (1.5" pitch, 52 links)
Final Drive:
Belt drive (1" pitch, 132 teeth rear pulley, 32 teeth front pulley).
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission oil (e.g., HD 360) or equivalent SAE 50W gear oil. Consult manual for specific part numbers and capacity.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 62 inches (1575 mm)
Length:
Approximately 87 inches (2209 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 535 lbs (243 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in the same manner as cars; consult manual for load limits.
Crash Safety:
Motorcycles of this era did not undergo formal crash testing or rating systems as seen in modern vehicles.
Braking System Type:
Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals, instrumentation lighting.
Infotainment System:
N/A for this era; base model with analog instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, indicator lights).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A. No electronic driver assistance systems.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. Primarily mechanical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,500-2,000 miles or seasonally. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Generally every 5,000-10,000 miles. Check manual for recommended plug type and gap.
Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust chain tension every 500-1000 miles, or as needed.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for exact viscosity (e.g., 20W-50 or SAE 50) and API service classification. Harley-Davidson recommends specific oil formulations for their V-twins.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent SAE 30W oil. Capacity approx. 1 quart.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (for disc brake systems). Ensure compatibility and check manual.
Shovelhead Carburetion:
Carburetors of this era (Keihin or Linkert) can require frequent tuning and adjustment for optimal performance.
Shovelhead Oil Leaks:
Shovelhead engines are known to seep oil; proper gasket maintenance is crucial.
Electrical System Aging:
Older wiring harnesses and electrical components can degrade over time, leading to intermittent issues.
Air Filter Example:
Refer to the manual for specific Harley-Davidson part numbers for filters and common wear items like points and condensers.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, renowned for its V-twin engines and American cruiser culture.
Super Glide Legacy:
The Super Glide line began with the FX model in 1971, introducing the FL front end with the lighter FX frame and the Shovelhead engine. The FXE designation typically indicated electric start, a significant feature for the era.
Production Era:
The FXE model was produced during the late 1970s and early 1980s, evolving from earlier FX models and preceding later iterations.