Market Position:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics specializing in classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, specifically the FXWG model of the early 1980s. Targets enthusiasts seeking to maintain, restore, or repair these iconic bikes.
Competitive Analysis:
Often considered the definitive reference for the 1982 FXWG. Competes with aftermarket manuals but offers the authority of a factory publication. Essential for accurate OEM specifications and procedures.
Key Features:
Official factory content, comprehensive system coverage, detailed diagrams and illustrations, troubleshooting guides, torque specifications, and procedure walk-throughs. Enables precise maintenance and repair.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Shovelhead 80 cubic inch, carburetion, ignition), transmission (4-speed, clutch), drivetrain (primary drive, final drive belt/chain), brakes (hydraulic, disc), electrical system (charging, lighting, starting, wiring diagrams), suspension (forks, rear shocks), frame, wheels, tires, fuel system (tank, lines, pump), exhaust system, controls, and bodywork/fenders.
Procedures Included:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, adjustment, troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major components and systems. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Highly detailed for experienced technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed steps for cylinder head removal/installation, piston replacement, crankshaft inspection and balancing, valve seat grinding, and complete engine assembly with torque specifications.
Transmission Overhaul:
Includes procedures for transmission case splitting, gear inspection and replacement, bearing services, shifting mechanism repair, and reassembly.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all model variations, pinpointing component locations and providing step-by-step troubleshooting for ignition, charging, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Front Fork Service:
Instructions for disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling the 41mm Wide Glide front forks, including damper rod service and oil replacement.
Carburetor Service:
Detailed diagrams and procedures for servicing the primary carburetor (likely Keihin), including jetting, float adjustment, accelerator pump, and idle speed settings.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital scans suitable for printing. Expect clear text and diagrams.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download PDF - intended for printing on standard paper)
Searchable Text:
Typically, official factory service manuals in PDF format contain searchable text, allowing users to quickly find specific topics, part numbers, or procedures.
Primary Engine:
Harley-Davidson Shovelhead
Engine Displacement:
73.7 cubic inches (1207 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 7.0:1 or 8.0:1 depending on specific build/options.
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-65 HP (actual figures varied).
Torque:
Estimated 70-75 ft-lbs (actual figures varied).
Fuel System:
Keihin Butterfly Carburetor (e.g., CV or butterfly type, specific model varies) or Linkert (less common by '82 FXWG).
Ignition System:
Points and Condenser ignition system, or early electronic ignition (e.g., single fire).
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Transmission Type:
4-speed Constant Mesh
Transmission Features:
Foot-shifted, hand-clutched operation. Separate transmission and primary drive cases.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended gear oil or equivalent SAE 80W-90 or SAE 75W-140 GL-5 rated gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 24-28 US fluid ounces (0.7 - 0.8 L)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Primary Drive Type:
Roller chain (1.5" pitch) in oil bath
Primary Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or Formula + (similar to ATF or SAE 50Wt motor oil).
Primary Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3 US quarts (2.8 L)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)
Width:
Approx. 35 inches (889 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 47 inches (1194 mm) at handlebars
Dry Weight:
Approx. 570 lbs (259 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but designed for rider + passenger + luggage.
Front Wheel Size:
19 inch
Front Tire Size:
3.00-19 or 3.25-19
Rear Tire Size:
4.00-16 or 4.50-16
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US gallons (15.9 L)
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings as with modern vehicles. Safety relies on rider skill and proper maintenance.
Active Safety Features:
Front and rear disc brakes with hydraulic actuation.
Passive Safety Features:
Robust steel frame construction, rider controls designed for operation.
Lighting System:
12V Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (front and rear).
Infotainment System:
N/A. This era of Harley-Davidson focused on mechanical engineering and rider experience, not electronic infotainment.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A. No electronic driver aids were present.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. Basic electrical systems for lighting and ignition.
Diagnostic Tools Covered:
Manual covers diagnostic procedures using basic hand tools, multimeters for electrical checks, and visual inspections. No specialized electronic diagnostic equipment is applicable.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to the manual for precise intervals based on riding conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually.
Primary Chaincase Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500-3,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 5,000-10,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 360 Motor Oil or equivalent SAE 20W-50 (air-cooled V-twin specific motorcycle oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 US quarts (2.8 L) - refer to manual for precise amount.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Shovelhead engines are known for oil leaks due to older seal technology, potential for tappet noise, heat generation, and carburetor tuning sensitivity. Ignition system components (points, condenser) require periodic maintenance. Primary chain adjustment is critical.
Troubleshooting Guide:
The manual provides comprehensive diagnostic trees for common starting, running, and electrical issues, guiding users through systematic problem identification and resolution.
Typical Filter Part Numbers:
Oil filter: HD-63731-58 (or equivalent aftermarket, e.g., Fram PH-7317, K&N HP-1001). Air filter and spark plugs vary by specific carb/ignition setup.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its cruiser and touring motorcycles and a distinct brand identity and culture.
Model Evolution Fxwg:
The FXWG (Wide Glide) was introduced as a successor to the FX Super Glide. It featured a raked-out front end with 41mm forks (hence 'Wide Glide') and a console-mounted ignition switch. It was a significant model in the evolution of Harley-Davidson's custom styling and performance.
Production Years:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984. The FXWG model itself was produced from 1980 to 1986. The 1982 model falls within this critical Shovelhead era.
Era Context:
The early 1980s was a period of transition for Harley-Davidson, marked by the introduction of AMF's ownership and subsequent buy-back by employees. The Shovelhead was the dominant engine platform before the introduction of the Evolution engine.
Model Recognitions:
The FXWG, particularly in its Shovelhead iteration, is celebrated as a classic custom motorcycle and a representative of Harley-Davidson's heritage. Often featured in motorcycle lifestyle publications and custom build showcases.
Industry Ratings:
No formal ratings in modern sense. Popularity and desirability among collectors and riders are high for well-maintained examples.
Manual Certifications:
N/A (This is a factory service manual, not a certified product in the consumer goods sense).