Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, custom builders, vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, and independent repair shops specializing in classic HD models
Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level technical data for maintaining and repairing a iconic American motorcycle, ensuring authenticity and optimal performance.
Manual Advantage:
Direct access to official factory procedures and specifications, crucial for the Shovelhead era's unique engineering.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Factory Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Workshop, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Reassembly
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (Exact count not specified, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
Shovelhead V-Twin (Disassembly, Assembly, Tuning, Carburetion, Ignition, Lubrication)
Transmission:
4-Speed Gearbox (Removal, Installation, Overhaul, Fluid Specifications)
Drivetrain:
Primary Drive, Belt Drive, Final Drive (Clutch, Sprockets, Chain Maintenance)
Suspension:
Front Forks (Telescopic), Rear Shocks (Spring-Assisted, Preload Adjustment)
Brakes:
Front Disc Brake, Rear Drum Brake (Service, Adjustment, Pad/Shoe Replacement)
Electrical System:
Ignition System (Points, Coil, Spark Plugs), Charging System (Alternator, Regulator), Lighting, Battery Service, Wiring Diagrams
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin Butterfly, Tuning), Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Petcock
Frame And Body:
Chassis Components, Fenders, Fuel Tank Mounting, Seat, Handlebars
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Lubrication Points, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tire Pressure Checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides for Engine, Electrical, and Drivetrain Issues
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake Caliper Service, Electrical Component Repair
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for complete component disassembly and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level - Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for all major systems, including ignition timing and carburetor jetting
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Typically searchable text-based PDF, allowing quick information retrieval
Printability:
Designed to be printed, with full page coverage for easy binding
Suggested Binding:
Comb binding, spiral binding, or binder insertion (user dependent)
Recommended Paper:
Standard printer paper (8.5"x11" or A4), heavier stock for frequently used sections
Engine Type:
Shovelhead V-Twin, Air-Cooled
Displacement:
73.7 cubic inches (1208cc) - Standard for FX models of this era
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.5:1 (can vary slightly based on specific build/tuning)
Horsepower Approx:
~55-60 HP (Varies based on tuning and specific configuration)
Torque Approx:
~65-70 ft-lbs (Varies based on tuning and specific configuration)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin Butterfly (e.g., Keihin CV or early butterfly models like 36mm, depending on exact fitment)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation (typically 91+ RON / 87+ MON)
Oil Type:
Specific Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent (e.g., SYN3 or other high-quality V-twin specific oil)
Oil Capacity Engine Trans:
Approximately 3 quarts (engine oil also lubricates transmission in Shovelheads)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Constant Mesh, Foot Shift, Left-Side Drive
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for factory FXSB 1981, 4-speed was standard.
Clutch Type:
Wet, Multi-plate, Cable-actuated
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson primary chaincase lubricant or equivalent
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual, critical for performance tuning.
Wheelbase:
~61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length:
~87 inches (2210 mm)
Dry Weight:
~570 lbs (258 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in the same way as modern vehicles; manual will detail load capacities.
Front Tire Size:
Commonly 3.50-19 or similar bias-ply
Rear Tire Size:
Commonly 5.10-16 or similar bias-ply
Wheel Type:
Spoked, typically 19-inch front, 16-inch rear
Bolt Pattern:
N/A for spoke wheels; hub mounting details provided in manual.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A - Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles.
Braking System:
Front disc, Rear drum - requires manual maintenance for optimal performance.
Lighting:
Headlight, Tail light, Turn Signals (manual covers bulb types, replacement, and wiring)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,500 - 3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact spec)
Primary Chain Tension Check:
Regularly, typically every 5,000 miles (critical for drivetrain longevity)
Tune Up Interval:
Annual or every 5,000 miles (includes ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, spark plugs)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50 Motorcycle Oil
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Front disc brake system, check manual for specific recommendation)
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin carburetors can require meticulous tuning for optimal idle and acceleration. Manual provides detailed procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common in older Shovelheads due to aging seals and gaskets. Manual guides proper seal replacement.
Ignition Timing:
Points-based ignition requires precise timing. Manual details the procedure.
Primary Chain Wear:
Wear can lead to shifting issues and noise. Regular inspection and adjustment are key.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903, known for its powerful V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was a significant evolution from the Panhead, known for its characteristic sound and performance. The FXSB ('Super Glide'/'Sturgis' variant in some contexts) represented Harley-Davidson's evolving cruiser designs.
Fxsb Production Period:
The FXSB was produced in the early 1980s, representing a period of transition and stylistic development for Harley-Davidson, leading into the Evo era.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible vintage motorcycle, appreciated for its classic design and Shovelhead engine.
Model Recognition:
The FXSB is recognized as a classic American cruiser and a significant model in Harley-Davidson's lineage, often featured in custom builds and vintage motorcycle collections.
Motorcycle Publications:
Contemporary motorcycle publications of the era reviewed the FXSB, highlighting its blend of power and styling. Manual provides the technical data to maintain these characteristics.
Manual Certification:
Official Factory Service Manual - endorsed by Harley-Davidson for repair and maintenance procedures.
