🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Model Code:

FXS

Year:

1974

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1974 Super Glide FXS was Harley-Davidson's flagship performance cruiser, a blend of the existing Electra Glide chassis with a more potent engine and sportier styling, aimed at riders seeking power and a distinctive look.

Competitors:

Competed against other large-displacement motorcycles of the era, though few offered the same iconic styling and American V-twin heritage. Key competitors included motorcycles from British and Japanese manufacturers with larger displacement engines.

Distinctive Features:

Unique 'boat tail' rear fender, powerful Shovelhead engine, often equipped with cast aluminum wheels.

Engine Heritage:

Utilizes the robust and powerful Shovelhead engine, a hallmark of Harley-Davidson's performance capabilities.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1974 Harley-Davidson Super Glide FXS.

Estimated Page Count:

250-350 pages (typical for a factory service manual of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, carburetor overhaul (e.g., Keihin butterfly or Linkert), ignition system (points, condenser, coil), lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specific).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Transmission (4-speed constant mesh), clutch operation and adjustment, final drive (chain drive), primary drive assembly.

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, front fork (leading axle, telescopic) disassembly and rebuild, rear shock absorber replacement, wheel bearing service, steering head bearing adjustment.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery maintenance, starter system, charging system (generator/alternator specifics for the era), instrument cluster.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, service, and adjustment (likely drum brakes, possibly early disc front).

Bodywork Fittings:

Fuel tank mounting and servicing, fender removal and installation, seat assembly, control cable routing and adjustment.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter (if applicable), carburetor operation, adjustment, and overhaul.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipes, mufflers, and mounting hardware.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, spark plug service, chain adjustment.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major systems.

Adjustments:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing adjustment, clutch and brake lever adjustments, suspension settings.

Installation Removal:

Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling all major components, including engine, transmission, wheels, forks, and body panels.

Disassembly Assembly:

Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for breaking down and reassembling engine, transmission, carburetor, and other complex assemblies.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.

Diagnostic Charts:

Includes fault finding charts and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, particularly for the electrical system.

Torque Specifications:

Provides specific torque values for critical fasteners and bolts throughout the motorcycle.

Precision Measurements:

Includes critical internal engine and transmission clearances, wear limits, and specifications for machining if required.

Manual Purpose:

To guide technicians and owners through all service and repair operations, ensuring accuracy and adherence to factory standards.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Physical printed document

Print Quality:

Professional factory printing standards of the era, likely black and white with detailed line drawings and exploded views.

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound, designed for workshop use.

Paper Type:

Durable, matte finish paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine Displacement:

74 cubic inches (1200cc)

Engine Code:

Shovelhead

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.0:1 (check specific engine build)

Horsepower Estimated:

Approx. 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)

Torque Estimated:

Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)

Engine Characteristics:

Known for its strong low-end torque and distinctive V-twin rumble.

Carburetor Type:

Typically Keihin butterfly or Linkert M-series (specific model may vary).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended (check manual for specific recommendations for the era).

Ignition Type:

Battery-coil, points ignition system.

Oil System:

Dry sump lubrication system with a separate oil tank.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

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

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate clutch.

Final Drive:

Chain drive.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm)

Length:

Approx. 89 inches (2261 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 590 lbs (268 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal safety ratings comparable to modern vehicles exist for motorcycles of this era.

Active Safety:

Effective braking system for the era (typically drum brakes front and rear, though front disc was available on some models), responsive handling.

Passive Safety:

Robust frame construction, rider positioning for control.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A for this era. Basic analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer if equipped, oil pressure/ammeter) are the extent of instrumentation.

Driver Assistance:

N/A. No electronic rider aids or driver assistance systems.

Connectivity:

N/A. Mechanical and electrical systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 5,000-10,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.

Chain Adjustment:

Check and adjust chain tension every 1,000-1,500 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends specific motorcycle-specific oil, typically SAE 20W50 or SAE 50 for air-cooled V-twins of this era (e.g., HD 360 or similar). Always verify with the manual.

Primary Chain Case Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., Harley-Davidson Formula+). Typically a specific weight transmission fluid.

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends specific transmission lubricant, often similar to primary case oil or a dedicated gear oil. Consult manual for exact specification.

Fork Oil Type:

Specific fork oil weight (e.g., 10W or 15W), consult manual for capacity and weight.

Brake Fluid Type:

N/A for drum brakes; if front disc equipped, likely DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Consult manual for confirmation.

Engine Wear:

Shovelhead engines can be prone to oil leaks from various seals and gaskets due to age and materials. Valve guides and tappet guides can wear over time.

Carburetion Issues:

Carburetors (especially older Linkert or worn Keihin) can be finicky and require regular adjustment and cleaning to maintain proper fuel mixture and idle.

Electrical Reliability:

Older electrical systems can suffer from corroded connections, failing insulation, and weak charging systems. Wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.

Clutch Adjustment:

Regular clutch adjustment is often necessary to maintain proper engagement and disengagement.

Primary Drive Maintenance:

Primary chain tension adjustment and inspection for wear are critical maintenance items.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Harley-Davidson has a long-standing heritage in producing large-displacement V-twin motorcycles known for their power, durability, and distinct American character.

Super Glide Origin:

The Super Glide was introduced in 1971 as a sportier, more customizable alternative to the Electra Glide, featuring the FLH chassis with a new Shovelhead engine and distinctive styling cues like the fiberglass tail section.

Production Years:

The FX Super Glide model line has been in continuous or intermittent production since 1971, evolving through various iterations.