Market Segment:
American V-twin cruiser/custom motorcycle market
Competitors Era:
Competed against other large-displacement V-twins from American and European manufacturers, as well as Japanese cruisers
Model Positioning:
The FXEF was part of Harley-Davidson's FX (Factory Experimental) line, known for its blend of custom styling and performance, often featuring disc wheels and a lower profile than other models of the era.
Engine Heritage:
Features the iconic Shovelhead engine, a long-standing and well-respected powerplant in Harley-Davidson's history.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery (carburetion), exhaust, starting system, charging system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Transmission overhaul, clutch, primary drive, final drive, drive belts/chains
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (suspension), rear suspension, frame, wheels, tires, steering, braking systems (front and rear)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, battery, charging system diagnostics, ignition system components
Bodywork Trim:
Body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, controls, fairings (if applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, chain/belt adjustment), lubrication points, cleaning procedures
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code explanations (if applicable for the era)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, component repair, and in-depth diagnostics, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Design:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Engine Displacement:
73.7 cu in (1200cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm) (typical for 1200cc Shovelhead)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.5:1 (varies slightly by year/variant)
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Est:
Approximately 70-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)
Carburetor Type:
Typically a Keihin butterfly or later Constant Velocity (CV) carburetor, or a Mikuni carburetor depending on specific VIN and market
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (AKI)
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, constant torque (often referred to as '4-speed)'
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed was standard for FX models)
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, wet multi-plate clutch
Final Drive:
Belt drive (typically 132T rear pulley, 32T transmission pulley, 1.5-inch belt)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Oil or an equivalent SAE 50 gear oil for the transmission and primary case.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 62.5 inches (1588 mm)
Length:
Approximately 90 inches (2286 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 4.5 inches (114 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 580-600 lbs (263-272 kg), depending on specific equipment.
Fuel Capacity:
3.0 gallons (11.4 liters)
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing like modern automobiles)
Braking System:
Dual-disc front brakes, single-disc rear brake (typical for FXEF models)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame providing a robust chassis
Infotainment System:
N/A (1984 models are analog-based; no integrated infotainment systems)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era do not feature electronic driver assistance systems)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, refer to manual for exact specs).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) (typical, refer to manual for exact specs).
Primary Chain Tension:
Check and adjust every 2,000 miles (3,200 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends specific V-twin motorcycle oils, typically SAE 20W-50 or SAE 50, depending on ambient temperature. Consult manual for exact specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5 silicone brake fluid (Harley-Davidson's recommendation varied by year and component manufacturer; manual will specify).
Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 50 gear oil or Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Oil.
Shovelhead Common Issues:
Potential oil leaks from pushrod tubes and base gaskets, rocker box leaks, primary chain adjustment wear, ignition system tuning (points/condenser), carburetors requiring periodic adjustment/rebuild.
Charging System Potential Issues:
Early models might have issues with voltage regulators or stator outputs, often addressed with aftermarket upgrades over time. Shovelheads are known for their unique electrical quirks.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is a legendary American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and iconic styling.
Shovelhead Development:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966 as an evolution of the Panhead, was Harley-Davidson's primary powerplant for over two decades. The FXEF was a popular iteration within the FX lineup.
Production Era:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984, with the FXEF being a model produced in the final year of this engine's mainstream production.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
