Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, owners, mechanics
Comparison To Era:
The FX Shovelhead was a significant evolution, offering a blend of performance and Harley-Davidson's iconic styling. This manual is essential for maintaining these classic machines.
Value Proposition:
Provides the in-depth technical knowledge required to service and maintain the 1973 Harley-Davidson FX Shovelhead, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of a classic V-twin.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Estimated 300-500 pages (typical for this era's comprehensive manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), carburetion
Transmission:
4-speed gearbox, clutch assembly, shifting mechanism, lubrication
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, battery, charging system, starter motor, switches, instrumentation
Chassis:
Frame, front suspension (forks), rear suspension (shocks), steering system, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear drum/disc)
Fuel System:
Fuel tanks, fuel lines, fuel shut-off valve, fuel pumps (if applicable), carburetor (e.g., Keihin, Linkert)
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, handlebars, controls, minor body panel adjustments
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake adjustments, chain lubrication/adjustment, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, carburetor tuning/rebuilding, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for home mechanics and professional technicians. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement Cu In:
74 cu in (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Typical: 3.4375 in x 4.25 in
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.5:1 (varies with models and combustion chamber modifications)
Cylinder Heads:
Cast iron or aluminum (depending on specific sub-models/updates)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, depending on tune and specific model year variants)
Torque:
Approx. 65-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft)
Carburetor Type:
Typically single Keihin Butterfly or Linkert (model specific, manual will detail)
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline, typically 91 octane or higher (check manual for specific recommendations)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (crankcase fill)
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points, battery ignition, magneto (less common for FX)
Spark Plugs:
NGK D8EA or equivalent (manual will provide precise specs)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift, left-side drive
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st gear: 9.22:1, 2nd: 6.23:1, 3rd: 4.74:1, 4th: 3.77:1 - illustrative)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 85W-140 GL-5 gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 US fluid ounces (710 ml)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Length:
Approx. 88 inches (2235 mm)
Height:
Approx. 45 inches (1143 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 550-600 lbs (250-272 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 580-630 lbs (263-286 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Consult manual, typically around 900-1000 lbs (408-453 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 US gallons (11.4 Liters)
Oil Tank Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 Liters)
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards of the era were different; manual focuses on mechanical safety)
Braking System:
Front and rear drum brakes, or front disc brake on some later FX models. Manual will specify for the 1973 model.
Tires:
Tubed tires, specific sizes detailed in manual (e.g., 3.00-19 front, 4.00-18 rear)
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (if equipped)
First Service:
500 miles (check manual for specific break-in procedures)
Regular Oil Change:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles (check manual)
Drive Chain Lube Adjustment:
Every 500-1000 miles or after washing/rain
Engine Oil Spec:
20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Transmission Oil Spec:
SAE 85W-140 GL-5 Gear Oil
Primary Chaincase Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if equipped with disc brakes, check manual for specific type)
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (common with age and mileage), ignition system reliability, carburetor tuning, transmission shifting engagement, brake performance (especially drum brakes).
Maintenance Importance:
Regular maintenance is critical for these vintage machines to prevent major component failures and maintain rideability.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an American icon synonymous with motorcycles, particularly the V-twin engine.
Shovelhead Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine family, introduced in 1966, replaced the Panhead and was produced until 1984. It's known for its distinctive rocker box styling.
Fx Series Origin:
The FX designation typically denoted models with the Shovelhead engine in the FL frame (often referred to as 'Super Glide' or 'Low Rider' variants later), offering a blend of the rigid frame rigidity with modern suspension.
Production Era Fx Shovelhead:
Mid-1970s to early 1980s.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Cultural Impact:
The Shovelhead engine and FX models are celebrated for their role in shaping motorcycle culture, particularly during the chopper and custom bike eras.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible and sought after by enthusiasts for their classic style and the visceral riding experience they provide.
Manual Value:
An indispensable resource for owners aiming to preserve, restore, or simply maintain their 1973 Harley-Davidson FX Shovelhead.
