Vehicle Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their classic Harley-Davidson Electra Glide.
Key Competitors Era:
Indian Chief, Triumph Bonneville T120, BSA Rocket Gold Star.
Engine Design:
Iconic Shovelhead V-twin, known for its distinctive sound and torque.
Touring Capability:
Designed for long-distance riding with comfortable seating, storage (saddlebags), and wind protection.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical knowledge to keep a vintage V-twin motorcycle in optimal running condition, saving significant costs compared to professional shop labor.
Engine Systems:
Shovelhead engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling (air), ignition system (points, coil, spark plugs), fuel system (carburetor models, fuel lines, fuel pump), exhaust system, performance tuning.
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch assembly, primary drive, final drive (belt/chain), troubleshooting and repair of transmission components.
Chassis Suspension Systems:
Frame construction, front fork (leading axle design), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, lubrication and maintenance.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear drum brake systems, brake shoe replacement, adjustment, hydraulic systems (if applicable), troubleshooting.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits (headlight, taillight, turn signals), charging system (generator, voltage regulator), battery maintenance, ignition switch, starter motor, horn, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification (e.g., Linkert M74), adjustment, cleaning, rebuilding; fuel tank, fuel lines, petcock operation.
Body Panels Fittings:
Fairing (if equipped), saddlebags, fenders, seat mounting, instrumentation, control cables, basic bodywork adjustments.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment, lubrication points, brake adjustments, battery care, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking irregularities.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds (top-end and bottom-end), transmission overhauls, clutch replacement, fork seal replacement, brake system overhauls, electrical component repair/replacement.
Component Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling all major vehicle components.
Technical Depth Level:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic charts.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Horsepower:
Approximately 55-65 HP @ 5500 RPM (estimated, factory specs vary)
Torque:
Approximately 75-85 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (estimated)
Carburetor:
Linkert M74, M74B, or Keihin butterfly type (depending on exact build date)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended, adjust if leaded fuel is used for authenticity).
Oil Type:
Viscosity: SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (mineral-based recommended for vintage engines). Check manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommendations. Avoid synthetic oils not approved for vintage flathead engines.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter.
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil ignition with breaker points and condenser.
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh, foot shift, hand clutch.
Optional Transmission:
None (4-speed manual was standard)
Primary Drive:
Roller chain (dry clutch, chain to primary cover).
Final Drive:
Heavy-duty O-ring chain.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends specific transmission oil. Typically, a 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil is used. Consult manual for exact specification.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Often shared engine oil (SAE 20W-50) or a dedicated primary lubricant. Verify with manual.
Length:
Approx. 92 inches (2337 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 700 lbs (317 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1100 lbs (499 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated rigid saddlebags, capacity varies by model but designed for touring luggage.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable to vintage motorcycles as per modern standards.
Braking System Type:
Front and rear drum brakes. Dual-leading shoe front brake for enhanced stopping power.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability.
Suspension Design:
Telescopic front fork and dual rear shock absorbers for ride comfort and control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or as specified in the manual. Check oil level frequently.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Weekly or as needed, especially after riding in wet conditions. Adjust slack every 5,000 miles.
Brake Adjustment:
As needed, typically before every long ride. Check pad wear every 10,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (mineral-based preferred).
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (verify with manual).
Primary Chain Case Lubricant:
Refer to manual; can be engine oil or specific primary lubricant.
Common Engine Wear:
Oil leaks (especially from rocker boxes and crank seals), valve guide wear, piston ring wear, lifter noise.
Common Transmission Issues:
Hard shifting, false neutrals, worn clutch plates, primary chain tensioner wear.
Common Electrical Issues:
Generator output, voltage regulator failure, corroded wiring terminals, failing ignition coils.
Common Chassis Issues:
Steering head bearing play, fork seal leaks, wheel bearing wear.
Manufacturer Founding:
1903
Brand Philosophy:
Emphasis on American V-twin motorcycle culture, freedom, and performance.
Electra Glide Introduction:
Introduced in 1965 as the FLH (Electra-Glide), evolving from the Duo-Glide.
Shovelhead Engine Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine replaced the Panhead engine starting in 1966, signifying a major mechanical update.
1970 Specifics:
Represents a mature development of the Shovelhead platform, featuring established touring amenities and the characteristic styling of the era.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Production Era Contribution:
Key model in Harley-Davidson's lineup during a transformative period for the company and the motorcycle industry.