Target Audience:
Harley Davidson owners seeking to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves.
Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair information, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership service.
Authenticity:
Represents the same manual used by local service/repair shops, sourced from original factory documentation.
Completeness:
Guaranteed complete and intact, with no missing or corrupt parts/pages.
Accessibility:
Instant PDF download for immediate access to repair information.
Engine System:
Detailed coverage of the Shovelhead engine, including disassembly, assembly, and tuning.
Fuel System:
Includes carburetor tuning, fuel line maintenance, and fuel pump operation.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage including wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, and charging system.
Transmission System:
Detailed procedures for the transmission, including maintenance and repair.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension service, including forks, shocks, and associated components.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake service, including hydraulic systems and component replacement.
Clutch System:
Maintenance and repair procedures for the clutch assembly.
Primary Drive System:
Coverage for the primary drive system, including belt or chain maintenance.
Exhaust System:
Information on exhaust system components and maintenance.
Steering System:
Maintenance and adjustment of the steering components.
Kickstarter System:
Procedures for the kickstarter mechanism.
General Information:
Overview of the vehicle and manual usage.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Periodic Lubrication:
Recommended lubrication points and schedules.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks and schedules.
Tune Up:
Detailed procedures for engine tune-ups, including ignition timing and carburetor adjustments.
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling and reassembling major vehicle components.
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning and correctly reinstalling parts.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic information, particularly for the electrical system.
Depth Level:
Professional-level detail suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic capabilities for identifying and resolving complex issues.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed rebuild instructions for major components such as the engine and transmission.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Hundreds of pages of diagrams, drawings, and photos.
Step By Step Instructions:
Numbered instructions guiding through each repair procedure.
Notes Cautions Warnings:
Critical information highlighted with notes, cautions, and warnings.
Part Identification:
Enlarged inset views for detailed part identification.
Searchability:
Implied through PDF format, allowing for keyword searching of content.
Engine Type:
Harley Davidson Shovelhead V-Twin
Engine Displacement Estimate:
Likely 74 cubic inches (1200cc) or 80 cubic inches (1340cc) for 1981 FXE models. Specific displacement would be detailed in the manual.
Engine Cooling:
Air-Cooled
Engine Configuration:
V-Twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Horsepower Estimate:
Varies by specific engine configuration, typically in the 60-70 HP range for the era.
Torque Estimate:
Specific torque figures would be provided in the manual, typically in the 70-80 ft-lbs range.
Carburetor Type Estimate:
Likely a Keihin butterfly or butterfly-VM carburetor.
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank through a fuel valve and carburetor.
Oil Change Interval Recommendation:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or as specified by Harley-Davidson for the era. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Tune Up Interval Recommendation:
Annual or every 5,000-7,500 miles, depending on usage and conditions. Manual will detail specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Specification Estimate:
Likely Harley-Davidson proprietary V-Twin oil or equivalent 20W50 or SAE 50 motor oil. Manual will specify exact requirements.
Transmission Fluid Specification Estimate:
Dedicated Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or heavy-duty gear oil. Manual will provide precise specifications.
Primary Chain Case Oil Specification Estimate:
Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent. Manual will provide exact specifications.
Brake Fluid Specification Estimate:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact type.
Common Shovelhead Issues:
Potential for oil leaks (especially at the base of cylinders and pushrod tubes), cam follower wear, and carburetor adjustment issues. Manual will offer troubleshooting for these.
Electrical Component Reliability:
Older electrical systems can be prone to component degradation; manual provides wiring diagrams for diagnosis.
Heritage Significance:
Harley-Davidson represents a significant era in American motorcycle manufacturing, known for its V-twin engines and iconic styling.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984, evolving through various configurations. The 1981 model is a later iteration of this iconic powerplant.
Fxe Designation:
The FXE designation typically refers to a cruiser-style model with the Shovelhead engine, often featuring a 4-speed transmission and chain drive.
Manufacturing Location:
Harley-Davidson manufacturing facilities in the United States.
