🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Year:

1971

Model Code:

FX

Engine Type:

V-Twin OHV

Engine Displacement Cc:

1200

Engine Displacement Ci:

74

Manual Product Name:

Harley-Davidson Super Glide 1971 Factory Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1971 Super Glide was a landmark model for Harley-Davidson, marking the transition to the FX series and featuring the Shovelhead engine. It was positioned as a performance-oriented cruiser.

Competitors:

Competed against British motorcycles (Triumph, BSA) and emerging Japanese offerings in the performance cruiser segment. Its unique styling and V-twin engine provided a distinct alternative.

Features Vehicle:

Distinctive 'super' styling, powerful 74 cubic inch Shovelhead engine, four-speed transmission, disc brake on the front (a significant upgrade).

Features Manual:

Essential reference for owners and mechanics to maintain and repair this classic motorcycle, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive repair and adjustment information for the 1971 Harley-Davidson Super Glide.

Estimated Pages:

Unknown (Based on description 'handy, easy to read reference book')

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (implied by 'reference book', but could be digital reprint)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition system.

Transmission:

Gearbox operation, maintenance, repair, lubrication.

Drivetrain:

Primary drive, final drive, clutch operation and adjustment.

Electrical:

Ignition system, charging system (generator/alternator), lighting, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance.

Chassis:

Frame, front suspension (forks), rear suspension (shocks), steering head bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system operation, maintenance, and adjustment.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Linkert or early Keihin), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters.

Exhaust System:

Muffler, exhaust pipes, mounting.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire pressure, spoke tension.

Bodywork:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebar, control levers, footpegs.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common operational issues, symptom-based guidance.

Repair:

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

Adjustment:

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

Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system schematics with component identification.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely a high-resolution scan of the original factory manual, potentially searchable if digitized.

Quality:

Original factory print quality (assuming a reprint of an original).

Binding:

Likely staple-bound or saddle-stitched for original factory manuals.

Paper:

Typically a durable, semi-gloss paper for factory manuals of this era.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

Engine Layout:

45-degree V-twin, air-cooled

Bore X Stroke In:

3.4375 x 4.00

Bore X Stroke Mm:

87.3 x 101.6

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (typical)

Horsepower Hp:

Approximately 55-60 HP (estimated, varies with tuning)

Torque Lb Ft:

Approximately 65-70 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (estimated)

Carburetor Type:

Linkert M74B or early Keihin butterfly (verify specific model configuration)

Fuel Capacity Gal:

3.5 US gallons (approximate)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (high octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed constant mesh, manual

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, 1.5:1 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 2.12:1 ratio

Clutch:

Wet multi-plate, foot-operated

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

60.5 (approximate)

Length In:

87.0 (approximate)

Dry Weight Lbs:

505 (approximate)

Gvwr Lbs:

Not typically specified for motorcycles of this era.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A (Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash testing like cars)

Front Brake:

Single disc brake with hydraulic caliper.

Rear Brake:

Internal expanding shoe brake (drum brake).

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (depending on market configuration).

💡 Technology Features

System:

N/A (No electronic infotainment systems present on this model).

Features:

N/A (No electronic driver assistance features present).

Features:

N/A (No electronic connectivity features present).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually (refer to manual for precise interval).

Primary Chaincase Fluid:

Check level frequently, change as per manual recommendations.

Spark Plugs:

Inspect/replace every 5,000-10,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).

Air Filter:

Inspect/clean or replace as per manual recommendations, dependent on operating conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent.

Engine Oil Capacity Qts:

3 quarts (approximate, without filter change).

Primary Chaincase Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or SAE 50 motorcycle oil.

Primary Chaincase Capacity Pts:

2 pints (approximate).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid for hydraulic front brake system.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or SAE 50 motorcycle oil.

Shifter Forks:

Wear on shifter forks in the transmission can lead to difficult shifting.

Oil Leaks:

Common for older Shovelhead engines to develop oil leaks from pushrod tubes, crankcase seals, and rocker boxes.

Carburetor Tuning:

Linkert carburetors can be finicky and require precise adjustment for optimal performance and idling.

Generator Output:

Early Shovelhead generators can sometimes have output issues, requiring voltage regulator or generator servicing.

Vibration:

Characteristic of the V-twin engine, but excessive vibration can indicate worn motor mounts or balance issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.

Super Glide Introduction:

The Super Glide (FX) was introduced in 1971, designed by Willie G. Davidson. It represented a departure from traditional styling, incorporating elements that would define the cruiser category.

Engine Development:

The 74ci Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, replaced the Panhead and evolved into a staple for Harley-Davidson's large displacement motorcycles.

Production Years Fx:

1971-1983 (for the initial FX Super Glide model line)

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The 1971 Super Glide is a significant motorcycle in Harley-Davidson history, often cited as the progenitor of the modern cruiser segment.

Collectible Status:

Highly collectible among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.

Manual Accuracy:

Factory service manuals are considered the authoritative source for vehicle maintenance and repair, ensuring accuracy.