Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts of the 1981 Harley-Davidson FXEF Shovelhead.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair and maintenance data at a fraction of the cost of proprietary dealership manuals.
Content Richness:
Hundreds of pages of detailed instructions, photos, and illustrations for comprehensive coverage.
Ease Of Use:
Printable pages, numbered instructions, and detailed table of contents for efficient navigation.
Troubleshooting Focus:
Integrated troubleshooting section with wiring diagrams for effective electrical system diagnosis.
Engine:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and repair.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines, and tank servicing.
Exhaust Systems:
Exhaust pipe removal, installation, and maintenance.
Electrical System:
Complete diagnostics, troubleshooting, component testing, and detailed wiring diagrams.
Front Suspension:
Fork disassembly, rebuilding, and adjustment procedures.
Steering:
Headset bearing maintenance and adjustment.
Rear Suspension:
Shock absorber servicing and linkage inspection.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system maintenance, bleeding, and component replacement.
Clutch:
Clutch assembly, adjustment, and repair procedures.
Primary Drive:
Primary chain inspection, adjustment, and related components.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance.
Kickstarter:
Kickstarter mechanism servicing and repair.
General Information:
Overview of the motorcycle, VIN identification, and general specifications.
Periodic Lubrication:
Detailed lubrication points, schedules, and recommended lubricants.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, lubrication, and fluid changes.
Tune Up:
Comprehensive tune-up procedures for optimal engine performance.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for overhauling and repairing all major components.
Index:
Comprehensive index for quick location of specific topics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and accurate wiring diagrams essential for electrical troubleshooting and repair.
Depth:
Complete factory-level detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Shovelhead)
Displacement:
80 cubic inches (1308cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm) (typical for 80ci)
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-70 HP (Varies by tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 75-85 ft-lbs (Varies by tuning)
Carburetor:
Typically a Keihin Butterfly or Linkert (specific model may vary, manual covers diagnosis and adjustment).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per Harley-Davidson recommendation for the era).
Oil Type:
Varies; typically Harley-Davidson 20W50 or equivalent (manual will specify).
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 US quarts (2.8 Liters) (manual will specify exact capacity).
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear (typically single disc front, single disc rear).
Lighting System:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (manual covers electrical diagnosis).
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually (manual will provide precise intervals).
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Check and adjust as needed, typically every 2,000-4,000 miles (manual details procedure).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect and gap every 5,000 miles, replace as needed (manual specifies type and gap).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50 (commonly recommended, refer to manual for precise specification).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (refer to manual for precise specification).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (commonly used, manual will specify).
Shovelhead Common Wear:
Valve guide wear, oil leaks (especially from pushrod tubes and crank seals), transmission shifting issues, and carburetor tuning sensitivity.
Electrical System Challenges:
Aging wiring insulation, rectifier/regulator failure, and charging system issues are common on bikes of this age.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, established in 1903, renowned for its iconic V-twin motorcycles and cruiser lifestyle.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was a successor to the Panhead and a predecessor to the Evolution engine, produced until 1984. The FXEF was part of the FX (cruiser frame) lineup.
Manufacturing Plant:
York, Pennsylvania, USA
