🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Super Glide

Model Code:

FL

Year:

1971

Engine Family:

Shovelhead

👋 Introduction

Historical Significance:

The 1971 Super Glide FL marked a significant evolution for Harley-Davidson, introducing the Shovelhead engine in a more modern chassis. It represents a key period in the company's history.

Competitors Era:

Competed against other large-displacement V-twins and inline-fours from manufacturers like Triumph, BSA, Norton, and later Japanese brands, but maintained a distinct American cruiser identity.

Engine Design:

Introduction of the Shovelhead engine, known for its distinctive sound and robust power delivery.

Chassis Design:

The FL frame offered a substantial platform for the V-twin engine, influencing the cruiser aesthetic for decades.

Riding Experience:

A raw, authentic riding experience characteristic of vintage American motorcycles.

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, restorers, mechanics, and enthusiasts seeking to maintain, repair, or understand their 1971 Super Glide FL.

Essential Resource:

An indispensable tool for preserving the originality and functionality of a classic Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 300-400 (typical for this era/scope)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Shovelhead 74ci (1200cc) OHV V-Twin, carburetor systems (e.g., Linkert, Keihin), ignition systems (e.g., points, magneto), lubrication systems, cooling systems (air-cooled), exhaust systems.

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh (e.g., Panhead/Shovelhead era transmission), clutch assembly, primary drive, final drive (chain).

Chassis:

Frame (duplex cradle), front suspension (telescopic fork, e.g., 35mm Wide Glide style), rear suspension (swingarm with shock absorbers), wheels, tires, spokes, bearings.

Brakes:

Front brake (drum, e.g., FL front brake), rear brake (drum, e.g., FL rear brake), brake system components, hydraulic/mechanical actuation.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery, generator/alternator, starter motor, charging system, switches, gauges, horn.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock, carburetor installation and adjustment, fuel filter.

Bodywork:

Fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, handlebars, control levers, footboards/pegs, side covers, decorative elements.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake adjustment, lubrication points.

Engine Repair:

Top-end overhaul (cylinder head, piston, rings), bottom-end overhaul (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings), valve adjustment, camshaft removal/installation, oil pump service.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch adjustment and replacement, gearset inspection and repair, shifting mechanism service, primary drive chain maintenance and replacement.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagnostics, charging system testing, ignition system troubleshooting, starting system issues, lighting circuit faults.

Carburetor Service:

Disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, jetting adjustments, idle speed settings, float level adjustment.

Suspension And Steering:

Fork seal replacement, fork oil change, shock absorber service, steering head bearing adjustment.

Brake Service:

Drum brake adjustment, shoe replacement, wheel cylinder inspection, linkage lubrication.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Problem diagnosis by symptom, step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for common and uncommon issues.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds).

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic steps using common tools and specifications.

Specifications Data:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, electrical resistance, fluid capacities, part numbers (for OEM parts).

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text (typical for well-produced digital manuals).

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Physical Binding Equivalent:

Spiral bound or lay-flat binding (ideal for workshop manuals).

Physical Paper Equivalent:

Durable, glossy or semi-gloss paper stock to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, air-cooled, OHV V-twin

Displacement:

73.7 cu in (1208 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by specific model/tune)

Horsepower Rating:

Approx. 55-60 HP @ 5000-5500 RPM (estimated)

Torque Rating:

Approx. 67-70 ft-lbs @ 3500-4000 RPM (estimated)

Carburetor:

Single Linkert M-series or early Keihin butterfly carburetor (specific model varies, manual covers identification and service).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (recommendation for modern use would be premium with ethanol protection, manual will specify original fuel).

Ignition Type:

Battery and Coil, points ignition (manual covers timing, points gap, coil testing).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 liters) including primary system.

Oil Type:

API SF/CD classification, 20W-50 or SAE 50 motor oil (manual will detail specific recommendations and properties for the era).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

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

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual, typically: 1st: ~2.44:1, 2nd: ~1.78:1, 3rd: ~1.34:1, 4th: 1.00:1 (approximate and subject to variation).

Primary Drive:

Roller chain drive (chain case with oil bath).

Final Drive:

Enclosed final drive belt or chain (FL models typically used chain for 1971).

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate clutch.

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommended gear oil or equivalent suitable for wet clutches (e.g., Harley-Davidson 80W-90 gear oil, manual will specify).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm).

Length:

Approx. 88-90 inches (2235-2286 mm).

Width:

Approx. 34-36 inches (864-914 mm) at handlebars.

Seat Height:

Approx. 29-30 inches (737-762 mm) unladen.

Dry Weight:

Approx. 570-600 lbs (259-272 kg).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically specified for motorcycles in the same way as cars, but implies rider + cargo capacity.

Cargo Capacity:

Limited, primarily the fuel tank and any aftermarket saddlebags or luggage racks.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not applicable in the modern automotive sense. Safety relies on rider skill and basic design integrity.

Braking System:

Dual drum brakes (front and rear). Manual provides adjustment and maintenance procedures.

Lighting System:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals (where equipped) are crucial for visibility.

Frame Construction:

Robust steel duplex cradle frame designed for stability.

Suspension Design:

Telescopic front fork and dual rear shock absorbers for ride control.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

None (pre-digital era). Basic analogue gauges (speedometer, tachometer, ammeter).

Driver Assistance Features:

None. Focus is on mechanical systems and rider control.

Connectivity Features:

None. Purely mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will provide exact figures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Inspect every 2,000 miles, replace as needed. Manual will specify gap and type.

Chain Adjustment:

Check and adjust chain tension every 1,000-2,000 miles.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended every 5,000-10,000 miles, or as indicated by engine noise. Manual provides detailed procedure.

Engine Oil Type:

As per engine specs: API SF/CD, 20W-50 or SAE 50.

Transmission Oil Type:

As per transmission specs: 80W-90 gear oil.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if hydraulic, though drum brakes of this era were often cable or mechanically actuated; manual will clarify).

Fork Oil Type:

Specific weight fork oil (e.g., 10W or 20W), manual will specify capacity and type.

Oil Leaks:

Common with older Harley-Davidsons due to gasket materials and engine design. Manual covers seal replacement.

Carburetor Tuning:

Linkert carbs can be finicky; manual provides tuning guides. Keihin easier to tune but requires specific knowledge.

Points Ignition:

Requires regular adjustment and maintenance for proper ignition timing.

Electrical Maintenance:

Older wiring can degrade; manual is essential for diagnostics and repair.

Clutch Adjustment:

Cable stretch and wear require periodic adjustment.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

Wear on the cam chain tensioner can cause engine noise; manual covers inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding Era:

Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the longest-standing motorcycle manufacturers.

Iconic Engines:

Known for its V-twin engine configurations, including the Flathead, Panhead, Knucklehead, Shovelhead, and Evolution engines.

Evolution From Panhead:

The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was an evolution of the Panhead design, featuring redesigned cylinder heads for improved breathing and a distinct appearance.

Super Glide Introduction:

The FX Super Glide, introduced in 1971, was a landmark model, styling the Shovelhead engine in a new chassis that blended the FL's touring capabilities with a sportier aesthetic, often featuring the distinctive 'boat tail' rear fender.

Shovelhead Production Years:

1966-1984 (engines used in various models).

Fl Platform Years:

The FL platform has a long history, with the Shovelhead engine being adopted into it during its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Collectible Status:

Highly collectible motorcycle within the classic Harley-Davidson community.

Design Influence:

The styling of the '71 FX Super Glide significantly influenced subsequent cruiser designs.