🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Model Code:

FXEF

Year:

1979

Engine Type:

Shovelhead

Vin Prefix:

9J4

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1979 Super Glide FXEF was a significant model in Harley-Davidson's lineup, representing the evolution of their classic cruiser design and the robust Shovelhead engine era.

Competitors:

Competed with other large-displacement V-twin cruisers of the era, emphasizing American muscle and touring capability. This manual positions it as a key model for enthusiasts preserving or restoring these iconic machines.

Manual Value:

Provides indispensable knowledge for maintaining the unique characteristics of the '79 FXEF, including specific Shovelhead engine nuances and early solid-state electrical components.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1979 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXEF.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era, specific count not provided in product description).

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed paper format, historically how these manuals were distributed. Digital formats (PDF) are common for reproductions.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, bottom-end disassembly and assembly, valve adjustments, carburetor tuning, ignition system troubleshooting and repair, oil system.

Transmission:

4-speed transmission disassembly, assembly, lubrication, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Primary drive, clutch operation, final drive (chain) inspection and adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system inspection, adjustment, hydraulic component service (calipers, master cylinders).

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (alternator/generator), ignition system, starting system, battery service.

Suspension:

Front fork service and adjustment, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.

Chassis And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, fuel tank removal and installation, seat, fenders, handlebars, controls, and exhaust system.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance checks, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, tire pressure.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common mechanical and electrical issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.

Depth:

Highly detailed, covering full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and in-depth electrical system diagnostics, suitable for professional mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Description:

If digital (PDF), expect searchable text and clear, high-resolution diagrams. If printed, expect durable paper stock for workshop use.

Quality:

Original factory manuals are known for clarity and accuracy in diagrams and text. Reproductions aim to match this quality.

Type:

Typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for printed versions to lay flat during use.

Type:

Durable, glossy or semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1208 cc)

Configuration:

45-degree V-twin, air-cooled

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP (at crank, estimated for the era)

Torque:

Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs (at crank, estimated for the era)

Carburetor:

Typically a Keihin butterfly or similar, specified by Harley-Davidson for the FXEF. Manual will detail specific model and tuning.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended.

Oil System:

Dry sump system with oil tank separate from the crankcase. Manual details oil pump, filter, and oil flow.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed constant mesh, manual foot shift with hand clutch.

Options:

No optional transmissions for this specific model year and variant.

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific Harley-Davidson transmission fluid or equivalent SAE 50W motorcycle oil recommended. Manual will provide exact specification.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Length:

Approximately 89 inches (2261 mm)

Seat Height:

Approximately 29-30 inches (737-762 mm), unladen.

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5 inches (127 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 550-570 lbs (250-258 kg), depending on specific configuration.

Fuel Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 US gallons (15.1 L) including reserve.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) for the primary oil reservoir.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

No formal crash test ratings or specific safety ratings as understood today for motorcycles of this era. Focus is on mechanical reliability and rider control.

Braking System:

Front: Single disc brake. Rear: Drum brake. Manual covers inspection and maintenance of both.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (front and rear). Manual provides electrical system details.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame providing structural integrity. Manual details frame inspection procedures.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

No modern infotainment systems. Focus is on essential motorcycle controls and instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, indicator lights).

Features:

No electronic driver assistance features. Safety relies on mechanical systems and rider skill.

Features:

No wireless connectivity features. All systems are analog and mechanical.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual provides precise recommendations.

Spark Plugs:

Inspection and replacement as needed, often around 6,000-10,000 miles. Manual will specify plug type and gap.

Chain Maintenance:

Regular cleaning, lubrication, and tension adjustment, typically every 500-1000 miles.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended periodically, often every 5,000-10,000 miles or as indicated by engine performance. Crucial for Shovelheads.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson 20W50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil. Manual will specify the exact type and any API service classifications.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Dedicated Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent SAE 50W gear oil. Manual will specify.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for hydraulic systems. Manual will confirm specific type.

Shifter Forks:

Wear in the transmission shifter forks can lead to difficult shifting or popping out of gear. Manual covers transmission disassembly for inspection.

Oil Leaks:

Common in Shovelheads due to aging seals and gaskets. Manual provides detailed procedures for seal replacement.

Carburetor Tuning:

The original carburetors can require periodic tuning for optimal performance and fuel economy. Manual details adjustment procedures.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion and loose connections in older electrical systems can cause intermittent issues. Manual's wiring diagrams are essential.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of V-twin engines and classic cruiser designs.

Super Glide Lineage:

The Super Glide, first introduced in 1971 (FX 1200), pioneered the 'cruiser' styling with its factory-installed fairing and windscreen. The FXEF variant represents the further refinement of this concept in the late 1970s, often featuring custom styling cues and the updated Shovelhead engine.

Production Era:

The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984. The FXEF model was part of the Harley-Davidson lineup during the late 1970s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Super Glide FXEF is recognized as a significant model in Harley-Davidson's history, representing the 'custom' era and the enduring appeal of the Shovelhead engine.

Manual Quality Rating:

Factory service manuals are considered the gold standard for repair information. This manual is essential for any owner or mechanic working on this specific model.

Certification:

Not applicable to service manuals; reflects factory engineering and diagnostic standards.