Segment:
Cruiser / Custom Motorcycle
Era:
Classic American V-Twin
Competitors 1984:
Other Harley-Davidson models, Indian Motorcycle (though less prevalent), custom bikes, some European touring bikes
Design:
Iconic cruiser styling, low seat height, distinctive V-twin engine character
Performance Focus:
Torque-focused V-twin power delivery, comfortable for cruising
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, ignition system, carburetion
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, maintenance, fluid specifications
Chassis:
Frame, front fork, rear suspension, steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system, starter motor, ignition system components
Bodywork:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, controls, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake adjustments, chain adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems
Repair:
Component-level repair, rebuild procedures, part replacement guidelines
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic to advanced diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for all electrical and mechanical systems
Specifications:
Inclusion of all critical torque values, clearances, and measurements
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
1339 cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 55-65 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque:
Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)
Carburetor:
Keihin Butterfly (e.g., CV carb) or Linkert (earlier models, less likely for '84 FXS), or aftermarket
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87-89 octane minimum
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters)
Type:
Battery and Coil, Electronic Ignition (points were phased out)
Type:
4-speed Constant Mesh
Drive Type:
Primary drive: Chain, Secondary drive: Belt
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (typically 1st: 2.7:1, 2nd: 2.07:1, 3rd: 1.5:1, 4th: 1.0:1)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson 4-Speed Transmission Fluid or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Safety Standards:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards vary by region and era; focus is on mechanical integrity and rider control)
Brakes:
Front: Single Disc, Rear: Disc
Suspension:
Front: Telescopic forks, Rear: Swingarm with dual shock absorbers
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Features:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, tachometer (optional/model dependent), indicator lights.
Features:
None (This is a 1984 motorcycle)
Features:
None (This is a 1984 motorcycle)
Oil Change:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months
Primary Chain Tension:
Check every 2,000 miles
Belt Drive Tension:
Check every 5,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 10,000 miles or as needed
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent API SG or higher
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Spectro HD Fork Oil or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Oil Leaks:
Common in older Shovelheads due to aging seals and gaskets
Carburetor Tuning:
May require frequent adjustment, especially with the CV carburetor
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent issues
Rocker Box Leaks:
Common area for oil seepage
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycling culture.
Fxs Lineage:
The FXS Low Rider was part of the FX 'cross-over' platform, combining FL style with FLH engines for a lower, sportier stance compared to traditional Big Twins.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, powered Harley-Davidson motorcycles through the late 1960s, 70s, and into the mid-80s, characterized by its distinct sound and robust performance.
Shovelhead Production Years:
1966-1984
Model Production Years Fxe:
FXE/FXS models were produced throughout the Shovelhead era, with the Low Rider designation appearing in the late 70s.
