🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXB

Year:

1984

Series:

Shovelhead

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The FXB Shovelhead represents a significant era in Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineage, blending classic styling with a robust V-twin experience. This manual targets owners and technicians seeking to maintain, repair, or restore these iconic machines.

Competition:

In 1984, Harley-Davidson competed with Japanese manufacturers offering increasingly sophisticated and reliable motorcycles. However, the Shovelhead held a strong appeal for its authentic V-twin character, customization potential, and a dedicated enthusiast base. This manual is the definitive resource for ensuring the longevity and performance of this specific model.

Key Features:

Official factory documentation, comprehensive coverage of all major systems, detailed diagrams and illustrations, accurate torque specifications, troubleshooting guides.

📋 Manual Details

Main Coverage:

Complete Factory Service Repair

Estimated Pages:

400+

Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of the Shovelhead engine (including cylinders, pistons, rings, crankshaft, connecting rods, camshafts, valves, oil pump).

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely a Keihin butterfly or Bendix Zenith, specific model detailed), fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel tank maintenance.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, points and condenser (if applicable), electronic ignition systems (if equipped), spark plugs, ignition coils, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals, brake lights), instrument cluster, switches, fuses, troubleshooting.

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch operation, gearbox disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Primary drive system (clutch, compensator sprocket, chain), belt drive (if FXB variant includes belt), final drive chain adjustment and maintenance.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads/shoes, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front fork (likely FL style telescopic forks) overhaul, fork oil specifications, rear shock absorber maintenance and replacement, swingarm and bearings.

Frame And Body:

Frame inspection, bodywork removal and installation, fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, handlebar assembly.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire specifications, tube replacement, spoke wheel maintenance (if applicable).

Maintenance:

Regular servicing, lubrication points, oil changes, filter replacements, chain cleaning and lubrication, brake adjustments, spark plug checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based problem identification, step-by-step troubleshooting for common issues.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and critical measurements.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagram interpretation, using test equipment (multimeter, test light), diagnosing electrical faults.

Assembly Disassembly:

Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly and reassembly of all major motorcycle components.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of critical torque values for engine, transmission, chassis, and electrical components.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Essential for experienced mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Numerous diagrams, exploded views, and clear illustrations to support repair and maintenance procedures.

Diagnostic Charts:

Symptom-based diagnostic flowcharts for common problems across all major systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, optimized for viewing and printing. Searchable text is a key feature of good factory manuals.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Model Year Coverage:

Specifically 1984 Harley Davidson FXB Shovelhead

Engine Variant Coverage:

1340cc Shovelhead V-twin

Chassis Variant Coverage:

FXB chassis configuration

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine Displacement:

1340cc (81.5 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in. x 4.25 in. (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 7.4:1 to 8.0:1 (varies by specific build and tuning)

Valvetrain:

Pushrod-actuated overhead valves, two valves per cylinder

Carburetor:

Typically a Keihin butterfly or Bendix/Zenith (manual will detail specific type and adjustment)

Horsepower:

Estimated 60-70 HP at rear wheel (highly dependent on tuning and exhaust)

Torque:

Estimated 70-80 lb-ft at 3000-4000 RPM

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot shift, hand clutch

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 1984 FXB

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula Plus (or equivalent SAE 20W50 Motorcycle Oil rated for wet clutches)

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 62.5 inches (1588 mm)

Length:

Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)

Seat Height:

Approx. 28.5 inches (724 mm) unladen

Dry Weight:

Approx. 570-600 lbs (259-272 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 900 lbs (408 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subject to the same rigorous crash testing standards as automobiles. Focus is on operational safety and rider responsibility.)

Braking:

Hydraulic disc front brake, drum rear brake (design specific to FXB model).

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel frame and swingarm.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

None (This era of motorcycle predates integrated infotainment systems. Aftermarket audio systems are possible but not covered by factory manual.)

Driver Assistance Features:

None (No electronic rider aids like ABS, traction control, or cruise control).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,000 - 3,000 miles or annually (refer to manual for precise intervals based on operating conditions).

Primary Chain Tension:

Check and adjust every 2,000 miles.

Spark Plug Inspection:

Inspect every 5,000 miles, replace as needed.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 12-24 months or as per manual recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil (or equivalent with API SF or higher rating)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula Plus or SAE 20W50 Motorcycle Oil

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Primary Oil Leaks:

Common for Shovelheads to develop minor oil leaks from base gaskets, pushrod tubes, and primary cover seals due to age and material degradation. Manual provides guidance on addressing these.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors of this era often require periodic tuning for optimal performance and reliability. Manual details adjustment procedures.

Oil Pressure Fluctuations:

Can be related to oil pump wear or incorrect oil viscosity. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring harnesses can become brittle or corroded, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial for diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, classic styling, and a culture deeply embedded in American automotive history. The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was the successor to the Panhead and predates the Evolution engine.

Fx Series:

The FX series (often referred to as 'Factory Experimental') was designed to incorporate elements of both the large FL 'Electra Glide' and the smaller K-model based Sportster, offering a blend of comfort and performance. The FXB variant typically featured the Shovelhead engine in a chassis that offered a cruiser-like riding position.

Shovelhead Production:

The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 through 1984, making the 1984 models the final iteration of this legendary powerplant.