Engine:
V-Twin Shovelhead OHV, Cylinder heads, Pistons, Crankshaft, Camshaft, Valve train, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Carburetion (Keihin/Bendix), Exhaust system
Transmission:
4-speed Cruise Drive, Clutch, Gearbox disassembly/assembly, Shifting mechanism, Final drive (belt/chain specific to FXS)
Chassis And Frame:
Frame structure, Front fork (often Glide type), Rear suspension (Shocks and swingarm), Wheel bearings, Steering head bearings, Jiffy stand
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, Brake caliper service, Master cylinders, Brake lines, Fluid specifications
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, Battery, Charging system (Alternator/Generator), Starting system, Ignition system (Points/Electronic), Lighting (Headlamp, Taillamp, Signals), Switches, Fuses, Horn
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, Fuel lines, Petcock, Carburetor overhaul and tuning, Fuel filter
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Fuel tank installation, Seat, Handlebars, Control cables, Foot controls, Exhaust system mounting
Maintenance:
Routine service, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug service, Chain/Belt adjustment, Brake fluid flush, Lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, running problems, electrical faults), Symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major components (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical components), Component-specific repair instructions
Technical Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, Ignition timing adjustment, Clutch adjustment, Chain/Belt tension, Suspension adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV
Engine Family:
Shovelhead
Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1200 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by year/variant)
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 hp @ 5000-5500 RPM (estimate, performance varied)
Torque:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3500-4000 RPM (estimate)
Carburetor:
Keihin butterfly or Bendix/Zenith (common variants for FXS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum recommended
Ignition Type:
Battery-coil with breaker points or early electronic ignition (depending on exact build date within the year)
Oil System:
Dry sump with oil tank separate from crankcase
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) including oil tank
Recommended Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 (or equivalent API SG/SH/SJ rated motorcycle oil)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, constant volume
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, typically around: 1st: 2.66, 2nd: 1.77, 3rd: 1.34, 4th: 1.00
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Heavy-duty chain
Final Drive:
Belt drive for FXS models
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (or equivalent 80W gear oil)
Initial Service:
Check and adjust at 500 miles (800 km)
Routine Oil Change:
Every 2,000 miles (3,200 km) or 6 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Belt Inspection And Tensioning:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (or equivalent 80W gear oil)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common on Shovelheads due to age, requiring regular seal inspection and replacement.
Carburetor Tuning:
May require periodic adjustment due to wear or atmospheric changes.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring and connections can lead to intermittent issues.
Starter Clutch:
Can wear out, leading to slipping or inability to crank the engine.
Rear Brake Wear:
Rotor and pad wear can be significant with heavy use.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Predecessor:
Shovelhead models like the FXEF Super Glide
Successor:
Evolution (Evo) engine models
Production Period For Fxs:
1979-1983
Model Significance:
The FXS was a custom cruiser variant of the Shovelhead platform, known for its lower profile and often custom-styled appearance.
