🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Shovelhead (FX, FL, FLH, FLHS, FXEF, FXWG, FXR Series)

Year:

1982

Chassis Code Common:

Often referred to by engine family and specific model designations (e.g., FXB, FLT, FXRT)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, customizers, and owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs on 1982 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead models.

Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical guidance for a specific and iconic Harley-Davidson engine platform, enabling owners to maintain and repair their vintage motorcycles effectively.

Coverage Focus:

Detailed procedures, diagnostic information, and specifications specific to the 1982 model year and the Shovelhead engine.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Shovelhead V-Twin engine; Top-end and bottom-end overhaul, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and camshaft assembly, oil pump operation and repair, carburetor service (CV, Keihin butterfly style), ignition system (points and electronic options).

Transmission:

4-speed and 5-speed constant mesh transmissions (e.g., Kicker and electric start variants); Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift drum and pawl servicing, final drive belt and chain maintenance.

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame inspection and repair, front fork (e.g., 35mm or 38mm conventional telescopic) overhaul, fork oil specifications and procedures, rear shock absorber service, wheel bearing maintenance, steering head bearing adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems; Hydraulic brake system bleeding, caliper service and seal replacement, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, disc rotor inspection and replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for various models, battery maintenance and charging system (alternator and regulator), starter motor service, lighting system troubleshooting, ignition coil and spark plug diagnosis, horn and accessory wiring.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel lines and petcock service, carburetor mounting and adjustment (CV, Keihin), fuel filter replacement, troubleshooting fuel delivery issues.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender removal and installation, fuel tank mounting, seat removal and maintenance, fairing (if applicable) service and mounting, exhaust system installation and gasket replacement.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, oil and filter changes, primary chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid checks and changes, battery terminal cleaning.

Repair:

Engine component repair and replacement, transmission gear and bearing replacement, suspension fork rebuild, brake caliper and master cylinder overhaul, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, carburetor rebuilding.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and brake malfunctions. Symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including detailed steps for disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly of all internal components.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for electrical systems, fuel delivery, and ignition timing. Includes torque specifications for critical fasteners and clearances for engine components.

Completeness:

Comprehensive coverage for all major mechanical and electrical systems. Detailed exploded views and step-by-step instructions for complex procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely yes, depending on the source scan quality.

Resolution:

Variable based on original scan quality, but generally sufficient for technical reference.

Format Consideration:

Digital download; can be printed and bound by the user.

Format Consideration:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, OHV V-twin

Displacement Variants:

74 cubic inches (1200cc) and 80 cubic inches (1340cc) - 1982 saw the introduction of the 80ci for some models.

Bore X Stroke 80Ci:

3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)

Compression Ratio Typical:

Approximately 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (varies by specific model and tuning)

Horsepower Estimated 80Ci:

Around 65-70 HP at 5000-5500 RPM (approximate, highly dependent on tuning and exhaust)

Torque Estimated 80Ci:

Around 75-85 ft-lbs at 3000-4000 RPM (approximate, highly dependent on tuning and exhaust)

Carburetor Types:

Keihin Butterfly (CV - Constant Velocity) is common for 1982, potentially earlier models still using Linkert or Bendix depending on specific VIN and market.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, octane rating typically 91 or higher recommended.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for the integrated crankcase/transmission system.

Ignition System:

Breaker Point ignition or early Electronic Ignition (points replacement system became more prevalent post-1978 for some models).

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Type:

4-speed constant mesh manual transmission (kickstart or electric start versions).

Gearbox Type Evolution:

By 1982, some models like the FLT Tour Glide were equipped with a 5-speed transmission, but the manual might focus on the prevalent 4-speed for other models.

Clutch Type:

Dry, multi-plate primary clutch operated by cable.

Transmission Oil Type:

Dedicated transmission lubricant, often SAE 75W-90 or SAE 50 motorcycle specific oil.

Primary Drive:

Primary chain drive, enclosed in a primary chaincase.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Typical:

Approximately 60-62 inches (1524-1575 mm) depending on model (e.g., FX vs FL).

Length Typical:

Approximately 88-96 inches (2235-2438 mm) depending on model.

Dry Weight Approx:

Around 550-650 lbs (250-295 kg) depending on model (e.g., Sportster vs. Electra Glide).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 900-1000 lbs (408-454 kg).

Cargo Capacity:

Varies significantly by model; includes saddlebags, tour packs, and tank pouches on touring models.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A for motorcycles of this era; safety focus is on rider control and vehicle stability.

Braking System:

Dual disc front brake, single disc rear brake (standard on most models).

Suspension Design:

Telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers for ride control and stability.

Lighting System:

Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals, and running lights.

💡 Technology Features

Features 1982:

Primarily mechanical systems; no modern infotainment or digital displays. Focus on analogue gauges (speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure).

Features 1982:

N/A. Rider skill and mechanical awareness are the primary 'assistance'.

Features 1982:

N/A.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Primary Chain Adjustment:

Check and adjust every 2,000 miles or as needed for slack.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 6,000-10,000 miles or as recommended by the manual.

Fork Oil Change:

Recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles or if performance degrades.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson recommends specific viscosity oils, often 20W-50 or 10W-40 for air-cooled V-twins, or a good quality motorcycle-specific oil meeting Harley specifications. (Consult manual for exact '82 specs).

Primary Chaincase Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent motorcycle-specific primary oil.

Transmission Oil:

SAE 75W-90 or SAE 50 motorcycle gear oil. (Consult manual for exact '82 specs).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check reservoir cap or manual for specific designation).

Oil Leaks:

Common due to age of seals and gaskets; primary cover, transmission seals, and pushrod tubes are frequent areas.

Carburetor Performance:

CV carburetor can become finicky with age; diaphragm wear, jet clogging, and accelerator pump issues can arise.

Electrical Reliability:

Older wiring harnesses can degrade; regulator/rectifier units can fail, leading to charging issues.

Transmission Noise:

Some gear whine is characteristic of these transmissions; excessive noise can indicate bearing wear.

Fork Seal Leaks:

Front fork seals are prone to degradation with age, leading to oil leaks.

Engine Rebuild:

Piston ring replacement, valve seat grinding, and bearing replacement are common during major engine overhauls.

Clutch Adjustment And Replacement:

Regular adjustment is needed; clutch plates will eventually wear out.

Starter Solenoid Failure:

The starter solenoid can be a common failure point on electric start models.

📚 Vehicle History

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson has a long-standing reputation for producing iconic American V-twin motorcycles with a focus on performance, durability, and customization.

Shovelhead Development:

The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was a significant evolution from the Panhead, featuring improved cylinder heads for better breathing and cooling. It was produced until the introduction of the Evolution ('Evo') engine in 1984.

1982 Significance:

1982 was a transitional year, with the 80 cubic inch (1340cc) engine becoming more widely available, offering increased torque and performance over the traditional 74 cubic inch (1200cc) motor. The FXR chassis also began gaining traction as a more performance-oriented platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (primary manufacturing).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Legacy:

The Shovelhead engine is a highly regarded and sought-after platform in the classic motorcycle community, celebrated for its character and sound.

Reliability Perception:

Reliability is heavily dependent on maintenance and previous ownership. When well-maintained, they are robust machines, but they require consistent attention.

Manual Accuracy:

This manual is intended to provide accurate technical guidance based on OEM service data for the period.