Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, repair, and assembly, including internals
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, Primary Drive, Transmission, Kickstarter
Fuel And Exhaust:
Fuel System (carburetor, fuel lines), Exhaust Systems
Electrical Systems:
Electrical System diagnosis and repair, Wiring Diagrams
Chassis Systems:
Front Suspension, Steering, Rear Suspension, Brakes
General Information:
Includes general information, specifications, and safety precautions.
Index:
A comprehensive index is included for easy navigation.
Maintenance And Tuneup:
Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance, Tune-up procedures
Troubleshooting:
General Troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and repair
General Information Procedures:
General Information section covers foundational aspects of the motorcycle.
Engine Repair Procedures:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures.
Clutch Repair Procedures:
Detailed steps for clutch service, adjustment, and replacement.
Primary Drive Procedures:
Service and maintenance for the primary drive system, including chain adjustment.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Complete overhaul and repair instructions for the 4-speed transmission.
Kickstarter Service:
Procedures for servicing and repairing the kickstarter mechanism.
Fuel System Service:
Carburetor tuning, disassembly, cleaning, and fuel line maintenance.
Exhaust System Maintenance:
Installation, removal, and service of exhaust components.
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for lighting, ignition, charging, and starting systems.
Suspension Service:
Front fork and rear suspension servicing and adjustments.
Steering System Maintenance:
Headset bearing adjustment and steering system service.
Brake System Service:
Brake caliper, master cylinder, and fluid service procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for DIY and experienced mechanics
Diagnostic Support:
Detailed troubleshooting and electrical service procedures combined with wiring diagrams
Illustrations Photos:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations to visually guide repairs.
Instructional Format:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Figure References:
Bold figure numbers for quick matching with illustrations.
Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for the electrical system.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Shovelhead V-Twin
Engine Displacement:
Typically 74 cubic inches (1200cc) or 80 cubic inches (1340cc) for Shovelhead models. Specific displacement for FXE 1981 would be detailed in the manual.
Horsepower Torque:
Specifications available within the manual, varies by exact engine configuration.
Carburetor Type:
Typically Keihin butterfly or butterfly VM-series carburetor, or AMF/Harley-Davidson Linkert. Manual will detail specific fitment.
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank via fuel lines to carburetor.
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker point ignition system, with potential for electronic ignition upgrades common during this era.
Oil Change Interval:
Details provided in the manual, typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Specific interval for the 1981 Shovelhead will be in the manual.
Tune Up Interval:
Details provided in the manual, typically every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Manual will specify viscosity and type (e.g., SAE 20W50 or specific Harley-Davidson branded oil). Often a straight-weight or multi-viscosity oil suitable for air-cooled engines.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual will specify type, often a dedicated transmission fluid or sometimes engine oil depending on the era and specific design. Harley-Davidson 80W Gear Oil was common.
Primary Drive Fluid Type:
Manual will specify fluid type for the primary drive, typically Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or a similar specification.
Shovelhead Common Wear:
Manual will cover wear items such as valve guides, piston rings, main bearings, and primary chain adjustment. Leakage from engine seals and gaskets is also common for the era.
Electrical System Quirks:
Troubleshooting section will address common electrical issues related to charging systems (generator/alternator), ignition points, and wiring harness integrity.
