Market Segment:
Cruiser/Custom Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, enthusiasts looking for in-depth maintenance and repair information for the 1983 Harley-Davidson FXWG Shovelhead.
Competitors:
Other American V-twin motorcycles of the era (e.g., certain Indian models), Japanese V-twins (e.g., Yamaha Virago, Honda Magna) which offered different performance and reliability characteristics.
Model Appeal:
Iconic Shovelhead engine, classic cruiser styling, customizability, distinctive sound and feel.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), ignition system, carburetor system (likely Keihin CV or Linkert variations), fuel delivery.
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh transmission (often referred to as the '3-speed' due to omission of neutral indicator), clutch service, primary drive, chain maintenance.
Frame And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork (leading-link or telescopic depending on specific FXWG variant), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads, rotor inspection and replacement, parking brake (if applicable).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), ignition system components (points, condenser, coil, spark plugs), battery service, charging system (generator/alternator, voltage regulator), starter motor, switches and controls.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, exhaust system, basic body panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, ignition timing checks, carburetor adjustments), pre-ride inspections.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding for common mechanical and electrical issues, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical specifications, timing settings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and frame-level repairs. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
80 cubic inches (1340 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 7.0:1 to 7.5:1 (varies slightly by model and revision)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, model dependent)
Torque:
Estimated 75-85 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, model dependent)
Carburetor:
Typically Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 36mm, or earlier Linkert models for some variants/years. Manual will detail tuning and rebuilding.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended.
Oil Type:
Specific V-twin motorcycle oil with ZDDP additive (e.g., Valvoline 20W-50 VR1, Spectro 6-speed 20W-50). Manual will specify exact Harley-Davidson oil designations.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3-4 quarts (2.8-3.8 liters) including filter, check manual for precise figures.
Ignition Type:
Breaker point ignition (mechanical advance), or electronic ignition systems in later Shovelheads. Manual will cover points, condenser, coil, and spark plug specifications.
Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted (left-hand shift lever)
Primary Drive:
Wet multi-plate clutch, chain drive to transmission.
Optional Gearsets:
N/A (Standard 4-speed for this model year)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: ~2.63, 2nd: ~1.96, 3rd: ~1.48, 4th: 1.00).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson primary chain lubricant or equivalent (e.g., Spectro Primary Chain Lubricant).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1 quart (0.95 liters), check manual for precise figure.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 62.5 inches (1588 mm) (varies slightly)
Length:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm) (varies)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.5-5 inches (114-127 mm) (varies)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 550-600 lbs (250-272 kg) (varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified as per modern automotive standards; refer to load capacity recommendations in manual.
Safety Standards:
As per regulatory requirements of the time for motorcycles. Manual will focus on mechanical integrity and safe operation.
Braking System:
Front disc brake (single caliper), Rear drum brake. Manual will provide specifications for fluid, pad/shoe replacement, and adjustment.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals. Wiring diagrams are crucial for troubleshooting.
Chassis Construction:
Steel tube frame, designed for stability and rider control.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual will provide exact Harley-Davidson recommendations.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Regular checks required, often at oil change intervals. Adjustment procedures detailed in manual.
Ignition Timing Check:
Recommended periodically, especially if experiencing performance issues. Manual will detail static and dynamic timing procedures.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50 recommended by Harley-Davidson for most operating temperatures.
Primary Chain Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent (often a heavier weight oil).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check specific caliper manufacturer or manual for exact type).
Shovelhead Quirks:
Shovelheads are known for oil leaks from various seals (e.g., primary drive seal, transmission seal, rocker box gaskets). Ignition timing can be sensitive. Carburetor tuning is crucial for smooth operation. Cam chain tensioner wear can be an issue. Manual will provide diagnostic steps for these.
Transmission Wear:
Wear in the 4-speed transmission can lead to shifting issues or noise. Manual covers inspection and rebuild procedures.
Brand Origin:
American motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1903, known for V-twin engines and iconic cruiser styling.
Fxwg Lineage:
Part of the 'FX' (often referred to as 'Factory Experimental') line, which introduced more custom-oriented features and frame designs compared to the FL (Electra Glide) models. The Shovelhead engine itself evolved from the Panhead, and this era represents a transition period for Harley-Davidson.
Production Years:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984. The FXWG designation specifically refers to models produced within this timeframe, with the 1983 model being a key example.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
