Target Audience:
Owners of 1983 Harley-Davidson FLH motorcycles seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics.
Value Proposition:
Provides complete, official factory information, offering a cost-effective alternative to professional servicing and ensuring accurate repairs.
Completeness:
Official factory documentation ensures accuracy and comprehensiveness for all major systems.
Digital Accessibility:
PDF download allows for instant access and convenient printing of specific sections or the entire manual.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the Shovelhead engine.
Transmission Service:
Detailed procedures for servicing the 4-speed transmission, including clutch, gear engagement, and lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for ignition, lighting, charging, and starting systems.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Keihin or Bendix) tuning, rebuilding, and troubleshooting; fuel tank and line maintenance.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, including caliper, master cylinder, and fluid service.
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork and rear shock absorber service, lubrication, and adjustments; steering head bearing maintenance.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, component mounting, fender, and tank removal/installation procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, and general inspection guidelines.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures to identify and resolve common mechanical and electrical issues.
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as the engine, transmission, and carburetor.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.
Depth Of Coverage:
Full factory service manual coverage, suitable for both intermediate and advanced home mechanics and professional technicians.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Printability:
Designed for printing, allowing users to create a physical copy of the entire manual.
Binding Type For Print:
N/A (Digital Download - User dependent)
Recommended Paper For Print:
N/A (Digital Download - User dependent)
Engine Family:
Shovelhead OHV V-Twin
Displacement Cu In:
74 cubic inches (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Undisclosed in product info, but typically around 3.4375 in. x 4.00 in. for 74ci.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, pushrod overhead valve (OHV) V-twin
Horsepower Approximate:
Typically in the 55-65 HP range, dependent on tuning.
Torque Approximate:
Typically in the 65-75 ft-lbs range, dependent on tuning.
Carburetor Type:
Likely Keihin Butterfly or Bendix/Zenith, specific model for 1983 should be detailed in the manual.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum octane rating to be confirmed in manual, typically 87 AKI).
Oil Type:
Motorcycle specific V-twin oil (e.g., SAE 20W50 mineral or synthetic blend) recommended. Manual will specify exact grades.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift, hand clutch
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for this model year; 4-speed was standard.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain drive within a separate primary case.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific gear oil or primary lubricant recommended. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Length:
Approximately 90-94 inches (2286-2388 mm), varies by specific FLH variant.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg), varies by specific FLH variant.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Motorcycle Specification)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle Safety Standards Pre-date extensive formal crash testing as seen in automobiles).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc front and rear brakes.
Lighting System:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (if equipped), and warning lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, as specified in the manual.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Recommended at regular intervals, often tied to oil changes or mileage, as detailed in manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 5,000-10,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for dry fill, but manual specifies exact capacity and check procedure.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for type and capacity, typically around 1 pint (0.5 liters).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid, as specified by the manufacturer.
Oil Leaks:
Common across Shovelheads due to older gasket and seal technology; manual addresses seal replacement and torque specs.
Carburetor Tuning:
May require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy; manual provides detailed tuning procedures.
Carburetor Carburetor:
Can be prone to wear and require rebuilding or replacement; manual covers rebuilding steps.
Electrical System Reliability:
Older wiring can degrade; manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for troubleshooting.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser motorcycles.
Shovelhead Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine was introduced in 1966, evolving from the Panhead, and was produced until 1983/1984, making the 1983 model one of the last of its kind.
Flh Designation:
FLH historically designates Harley-Davidson's full-size, touring-oriented heavyweight models, often featuring the larger displacement engines.
Shovelhead Production Years:
1966-1983/1984
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Milwaukee, Wisconsin for engines and assembly, various locations for components)
