Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FXS Shovelhead owners, mechanics, and restorers
Historical Significance:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing a classic American motorcycle model
Value Proposition:
Provides the authoritative factory information needed for accurate and efficient service
Completeness:
Official factory documentation ensures accuracy and comprehensive coverage
Diagnostics:
Includes troubleshooting guides and technical specifications critical for diagnosis
Primary Coverage:
Full Factory Service Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (Exact number varies by publication edition)
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (Shovelhead V-Twin), Transmission (4-speed), Primary Drive, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front forks, Rear shocks), Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels, Tires, Steering
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting System, Charging System, Starter System, Wiring Harnesses, Gauges, Switches
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin Butterfly), Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Fuel Pump (if applicable)
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Foot Controls, Exhaust System
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacement, Chain adjustment, Spark plug service, Battery maintenance
Major Repairs:
Engine teardown and rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Carburetor tuning and rebuild, Brake system service, Fork seal replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults
Diagnostics:
Electrical system testing, Carburetor adjustment procedures, Engine timing verification
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement:
73.7 cubic inches (1207 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)
Carburetor Model:
Keihin Butterfly
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical Fuel Pump (typically diaphragm type)
Ignition System:
Battery and Coil (Breaker Point or Electronic Ignition options may exist depending on specific build)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends specific V-Twin motorcycle oils. Check manual for exact specifications (e.g., 20W50 V-Twin specific).
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for engine oil (check manual for exact figure, includes oil in primary case)
Crash Test Data:
Not applicable to vintage motorcycles in the same manner as modern cars.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional or model dependent), odometer, and indicator lights.
Assistance Features:
None (standard for the era).
Connectivity Features:
None (standard for the era).
Ignition Control:
Mechanical (points) or early electronic ignition systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval).
Primary Chain Tension:
Check and adjust every 5,000 miles (refer to manual for detailed procedure).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000-12,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50 V-Twin motorcycle oil recommended by Harley-Davidson.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for specific requirement).
Carburetor Tuning:
Shovelhead carburetors can require frequent tuning due to age and wear, particularly the butterfly style.
Oil Leaks:
Common on older Shovelheads due to aging gaskets and seals.
Primary Chain Wear:
The primary chain and tensioner can wear over time, requiring adjustment or replacement.
Ignition System:
Breaker points can require regular maintenance; electronic ignition conversions are popular upgrades.
Manufacturer Origin:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Brand Identity:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser style.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1983, replacing the Panhead and preceding the Evolution engine.
Fxs Designation:
The 'FX' designation typically refers to models with a 4-speed transmission and rubber-mounted engine, distinguishing them from the 'FL' (5-speed, rigid-mount) models.
Production Years:
The Shovelhead engine itself was produced from 1966 to 1983. Specific FXS models varied throughout this period.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA (Harley-Davidson's primary manufacturing plant)
Model Recognition:
Harley-Davidson Shovelhead models are highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors for their classic styling and performance.
Reliability Perception:
While requiring more frequent maintenance than modern bikes, properly maintained Shovelheads are known for their durability and character.
Manual Authenticity:
Official Factory Service Manual, providing the highest level of authenticity for repair information.
