This manual covers the FXS, a motorcycle produced in 1981, featuring the iconic Shovelhead V-Twin engine. Known for its robust performance and distinctive sound, the FXS, often referred to as the Low Rider, was a popular cruiser known for its extended front forks and lower seat height. An American manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1903, engineered the Shovelhead engine, which powered their motorcycles from 1966 until 1984. This particular model typically features an 80 cubic inch (1340cc) engine, a 4-speed constant mesh transmission, and hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, embodying the classic cruiser aesthetic and mechanical prowess of its era.
This workshop service repair manual provides comprehensive guidance for maintaining and repairing the FXS. It includes detailed procedures for engine disassembly and repair, transmission overhaul, primary drive system service, clutch adjustment, fuel system diagnosis, exhaust system inspection, and complete electrical system repair, complete with wiring diagrams. The manual also covers front and rear suspension, steering, and brake system maintenance. With hundreds of pages of information, step-by-step troubleshooting guides, and critical notes, cautions, and warnings, this English-language manual is an invaluable resource for do-it-yourself owners and experienced mechanics alike, offering an inexpensive way to keep the vehicle in optimal working condition.
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself owners and experienced mechanics
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly, saving on professional service costs
Ease Of Use:
Numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, easy-to-use table of contents, detailed illustrations
Critical Information:
Notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter pinpoint critical information
General Coverage:
Complete official full factory service repair manual covering all styles
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Digital Format:
PDF Download
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly and repair
Transmission:
Complete transmission overhaul and repair
Primary Drive:
Primary drive system service and repair
Clutch:
Clutch service, adjustment, and replacement
Fuel System:
Fuel system diagnosis, cleaning, and adjustment
Exhaust Systems:
Exhaust system inspection and service
Electrical System:
Comprehensive electrical system diagnosis and repair, including wiring diagrams
Front Suspension:
Front suspension service and repair
Rear Suspension:
Rear suspension service and repair
Steering:
Steering system maintenance and repair
Brakes:
Brake system inspection, service, and repair
Kickstarter:
Kickstarter system service and repair
Maintenance:
Periodic lubrication, general maintenance, tune-up procedures
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems
Depth:
Complete disassembly and reassembly guidance with hundreds of photos and illustrations
Diagnostic Assistance:
Troubleshooting and electrical service procedures combined with detailed wiring diagrams
Printability:
Printable in its entirety or just needed pages, without restriction
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Media Type:
Digital (can be burned to CD-ROM)
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine Type:
Shovelhead V-Twin
Engine Displacement:
Typically 80 cubic inches (1340cc) for Shovelhead models
Carburetor:
Likely a Keihin Butterfly or a Linkert carburetor, depending on specific sub-model and factory configuration.
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank to carburetor
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker point ignition with magneto or battery-coil system
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate clutch
Primary Drive:
Chain drive (enclosed in primary cover)
Wheelbase:
Varies by specific FXS variant, but typically around 63-64 inches
Dry Weight:
Approximately 500-550 lbs, depending on exact configuration.
Safety Standards:
As per applicable regulations for motorcycles of that era; no formal crash test ratings like cars.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear (typical for FX models of this era)
Audio System:
Not applicable for this era and model, focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Safety Aids:
None; emphasis on rider control and mechanical components.
Connection Options:
None; purely mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or as specified in the manual.
Primary Chain Tension:
Requires periodic adjustment, usually specified at oil changes or as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Specific Harley-Davidson approved V-twin motorcycle oil (e.g., SAE 20W50)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent
Primary Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson primary chaincase lubricant or equivalent
Shovelhead Common Concerns:
Oil leaks (especially from pushrod tubes and primary cover), valve guide wear, potential for oil blow-by.
Electrical System Concerns:
Older wiring can become brittle; rectifier and regulator issues are common on vintage bikes.
Spark Plugs:
Specific Harley-Davidson recommended spark plug part number
Ignition Timing:
Critical for optimal performance; requires specific timing marks and procedure.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, replaced the Panhead and was produced until 1984, known for its distinctive sound and robust performance.
Fxs Model Context:
The FXS designation typically referred to the Low Rider model, a popular cruiser in Harley-Davidson's lineup, known for its extended front forks and lower seat height.
Historical Significance:
The Shovelhead engine is considered a classic and iconic powerplant in Harley-Davidson's history, sought after by enthusiasts.
