Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, and professional mechanics working on 1979 Harley-Davidson FXS Shovelhead motorcycles.
Advantage:
Complete factory information, digital format for immediate access and cost savings compared to physical manuals.
Download Benefit:
Saves money on shipping and waiting time compared to traditional mail delivery.
Content Value:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly through detailed repair and service information.
Overall Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, authoritative, and readily accessible service resource for maintaining and repairing the 1979 Harley-Davidson FXS Shovelhead.
Engine:
Complete Engine Service, Rebuild, and Troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, fuel delivery, fuel lines, fuel filters
Exhaust Systems:
Exhaust system maintenance and repair
Electrical System:
Ignition, lighting, charging system, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting
Front Suspension:
Fork service, oil changes, seal replacement
Steering:
Steering head bearing adjustment and service
Rear Suspension:
Shock absorber service, swingarm maintenance
Brakes:
Brake system maintenance, hydraulic components, pad replacement
Clutch:
Clutch adjustment, operation, and service
Primary Drive:
Primary drive system maintenance and adjustment
Transmission:
Transmission service, repair, and component identification
Kickstarter:
Kickstarter mechanism service and repair
General Information:
Vehicle identification, general specifications, safety precautions
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Periodic Lubrication:
Recommended lubrication points and schedules
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks and schedules
Tune Up:
Comprehensive tune-up procedures for optimal performance
Disassembly:
Step-by-step complete disassembly instructions
Reassembly:
Step-by-step complete reassembly instructions
Electrical Diagnostics:
Combined troubleshooting and detailed wiring diagrams for electrical systems
Depth:
Full factory specifications, detailed procedures, component-level repair
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos, drawings, and detailed illustrations
Guidance Level:
Suitable for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Index Availability:
Yes, with a numbered table of contents for easy navigation
Compatibility:
All PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac
Printability:
Printable in its entirety or individual pages without restriction
Binding:
Not applicable (digital download)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital download)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download Link on Checkout Page
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine Type:
V-twin, air-cooled, four-stroke OHV
Engine Displacement:
80 cubic inches (1317 cc) - Standard for Shovelhead models of this era
Engine Family Designation:
Shovelhead
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 60-65 HP (Varies by specific tuning and exhaust)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (Varies by specific tuning and exhaust)
Carburetion:
Typically a single Keihin butterfly carburetor (e.g., Keihin 34mm) or similar aftermarket options common for the era.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (refer to manual for specific octane rating)
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker points ignition system (standard, electronic ignition often an aftermarket upgrade)
Type:
4-speed constant mesh manual transmission
Optional Transmissions:
Not typically offered from factory for this model year; aftermarket 5-speed conversions were common later.
Drive System:
Belt drive to rear wheel
Primary Drive:
Heavy-duty chain drive within primary case
Transmission Fluid:
Manual will specify exact type, typically SAE 50 or SAE 60 motorcycle gear oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Glides, Bel-Ray Gear Saver).
Infotainment System:
N/A (1979 model year, pre-infotainment era). Basic analog instrumentation.
Driver Assistance:
N/A (1979 model year, pre-driver assistance features).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (1979 model year, no electronic connectivity features).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or as specified in the manual. Shovelheads often used a shared transmission/primary oil, requiring specific attention.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Regular inspection and adjustment are crucial for the primary chain drive. Manual will detail procedure and interval.
Engine Oil:
Manual will specify SAE grade (e.g., 20W50, 50W) and type (e.g., conventional, specifically formulated motorcycle oil). Capacity around 3 quarts for the engine.
Primary Oil:
Separate from engine oil in some configurations or shared with transmission. Manual will specify type and capacity (often ~1 quart).
Brake Fluid:
Manual will specify DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid for the brake system.
Shimming:
Valve train shimming can require periodic adjustment. Manual details the process.
Oil Leaks:
Common in older Harleys; manual provides guidance on gasket and seal replacement.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires meticulous tuning for optimal performance and starting. Manual covers carburetor adjustments.
Spark Plugs:
Replacement and gap setting procedures outlined.
Ignition Timing:
Critical for performance and starting; manual provides methods for setting ignition timing.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a long-standing legacy of producing iconic American motorcycles with robust engineering and distinctive styling.
Shovelhead Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine was introduced in 1966, replacing the Panhead. The FXS (often designated FXS-80 Low Rider) debuted in 1977 and became a highly popular model.
Production Era:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984, with the FXS Low Rider being a key model within this lineage.
