🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXB

Year:

1980

Engine Type:

Shovelhead V-Twin

Engine Family Code:

Shovelhead

Model Code:

FXB

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson FXB Shovelhead 1980 owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential, often hard-to-find technical data and procedural guidance for maintaining and repairing a classic motorcycle, crucial for preserving value and functionality.

Accessibility:

Digital PDF format allows for easy storage, search, and access on various devices.

Comprehensiveness:

Aims to cover all aspects of the motorcycle's mechanical and electrical systems.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific manual edition; typical service manuals are 300-600 pages.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting of Shovelhead engine components (cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, lifters, pushrods).

Fuel System:

Carburetor (e.g., Keihin Butterfly) tuning, maintenance, overhaul; fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank inspection and repair.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, points (if applicable, though electronic ignition was becoming common), troubleshooting ignition system faults.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator/generator), lighting, starter system, horn, instrument cluster diagnostics.

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh transmission servicing, disassembly, assembly, fluid checks, clutch operation and adjustment.

Drivetrain:

Primary drive chain, clutch, final drive belt inspection, adjustment, and replacement procedures.

Brake System:

Front and rear brake caliper service, brake fluid replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, master cylinder overhaul, parking brake (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front fork (e.g., Showa or original design) overhaul, oil changes, seal replacement; rear shock absorber servicing and adjustment.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, fairing (if applicable), fenders, fuel tank removal and installation, seat mounting.

Wheel And Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire pressure, tire replacement, spoke tensioning (for wire wheels).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, air filter cleaning/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.

Rebuilds Overhauls:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine, transmission, and component overhauls.

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustment, clutch adjustment, brake lever adjustment, suspension preload adjustment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, high-resolution wiring schematics for electrical system troubleshooting and repairs.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on specialized Harley-Davidson tools or equivalent general-purpose tools required for specific procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.

Clearances Tolerances:

Specifications for engine component clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical measurements for ensuring proper operation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

Typically scanned from original manuals, quality can vary but generally sufficient for understanding diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

Typically 74 cubic inches (1200cc) or 80 cubic inches (1340cc) for Shovelhead models of this era. FXB designation often implies 80 cubic inches.

Engine Configuration:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin

Engine Cooling:

Air-cooled

Cylinder Head Design:

Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod actuated

Horsepower:

Approx. 60-70 HP (Varies with tuning and exact configuration).

Torque:

Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (Varies with tuning and exact configuration).

Carburetor Type:

Likely a Keihin Butterfly (e.g., CV - Constant Velocity) or an earlier S&S Super E/G depending on factory configuration or prior modifications.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher, depending on engine compression and tuning.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for the dry sump system, including oil tank.

Oil Type:

API SG or higher service classification motorcycle oil, SAE 20W-50 recommended for most operating temperatures.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed constant mesh

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model year, but typically include a 1st gear around 2.94:1, 2nd around 2.25:1, 3rd around 1.75:1, and 4th around 1.29:1, with a final drive ratio around 3.13:1 (belt drive).

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Clutch Fluid:

DOT 4 or equivalent hydraulic fluid for the clutch actuator, if hydraulic. Cable-actuated clutches use grease lubrication.

Transmission Oil Type:

Dedicated Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or a high-quality 80W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Seat Height:

Approximately 28-30 inches (711-762 mm), depending on suspension and seat type.

Dry Weight:

Approximately 590-610 lbs (268-277 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 950-1000 lbs (431-454 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards Era:

Compliance with US DOT and relevant motorcycle safety standards of the late 1970s/early 1980s. No formal crash ratings like modern cars.

Braking System:

Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brakes (typical for FXB models).

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame for structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A - This era of motorcycle predates integrated infotainment systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A - No electronic driver assistance features are present.

Connectivity Options:

N/A - No electronic connectivity options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,500-5,000 miles (4,000-8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on usage and oil type.

Primary Chain Tension Check:

Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km).

Clutch Adjustment:

As needed, typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil, API SG or higher.

Transmission Oil Specification:

SAE 80W-90 gear oil or specified Harley-Davidson lubricant.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Primary lubricant or SAE 50 motor oil (check manual for exact type).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Oil Leaks:

Shovelheads are known for minor oil leaks from various seals and gaskets, particularly crank seals and rocker box gaskets.

Pushrod Tubes:

Pushrod tube O-rings can degrade over time, leading to oil leaks into the crankcase.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors require regular tuning, especially if ambient temperatures or altitude change significantly.

Charging System:

Older charging systems (generators or early alternators) may require more frequent attention and maintenance.

Rocker Box Gaskets:

Rocker box gaskets can be prone to leaks, requiring tightening or replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origins:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its large V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.

Shovelhead Era:

The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, replaced the Panhead and was produced until the introduction of the Evolution engine in 1984. The FXB designation was part of Harley's evolving model nomenclature, often indicating a specific frame/engine combination.

Fx Series Context:

The FX series typically featured the Shovelhead engine in a frame with a different rake and trail than the FL (cruiser) series, often sharing components with the Sportster line.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Production Period:

Shovelhead engines were produced from 1966 to 1984. The FXB model variant was a specific configuration within this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

While the FXB itself may not have specific 'awards', the Shovelhead engine and Harley-Davidson brand are legendary in motorcycle history, recognized for their enduring appeal and cultural impact.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high among enthusiasts for its classic styling and raw riding experience, though maintenance requirements are significant.