Market Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle segment, targeted towards riders seeking classic American V-twin performance and customization potential.
Competitors Era:
Other Harley-Davidson models of the era, and potentially Japanese motorcycles with similar displacement and cruiser styling.
Design Philosophy:
Iconic Shovelhead V-twin engine, classic styling, customizable platform, robust mechanicals characteristic of late 70s/early 80s Harley-Davidson engineering.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, tuning, carburetor service (e.g., Keihin butterfly or butterfly-style CV), ignition system, lubrication, cooling system (oil cooling for Shovelheads), fuel system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
4-speed constant mesh transmission overhaul, clutch service, final drive belt maintenance, primary drive inspection and service.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork service (e.g., FLT or similar damping systems for the era), rear shock absorber maintenance, steering head bearing adjustment, swingarm service.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brake system service (front and rear), brake caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, brake fluid replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system service, battery maintenance, starter motor operation, charging system (generator or alternator), electronic ignition troubleshooting (if applicable).
Bodywork Frame:
Frame inspection, mounting hardware, fenders, fuel tank removal/installation, seat assembly, handlebar components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable to FXEF variant), lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical fault finding, engine performance problems.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major mechanical and electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic adjustments and routine maintenance to major engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Engine Displacement:
1200cc (74 cubic inches) or 1340cc (82 cubic inches) depending on specific FXEF variant. Note: FXEF models typically featured the 80 cubic inch (1340cc) Shovelhead for 1980, replacing the 74 cubic inch.
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm) for 80 cubic inch; 3.50 in x 3.8125 in (88.9 mm x 96.84 mm) for 74 cubic inch.
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 (varies by specific engine build and market).
Engine Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-70 HP (actual figures not always officially published for this era).
Torque:
Estimated 70-80 ft-lbs (actual figures not always officially published for this era).
Carburetor:
Keihin butterfly or Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor, typically 38mm or 40mm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended.
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 - 4.0 US gallons (13.2 - 15.1 liters) depending on tank style.
Transmission Type:
4-speed constant mesh, foot shift
Primary Drive:
Single-row primary chain drive
Transmission Options:
None for this specific model year and configuration.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable actuated
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission oil or equivalent SAE 50W or SAE 60W gear oil (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm).
Length:
Approximately 88 inches (2235 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 500-550 lbs (227-250 kg) depending on options and specific build.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Not typically specified in the same manner as cars; refer to frame and suspension load limits.
Safety Standards:
Motorcycle safety regulations of the era; no formal crash ratings like automobiles.
Braking System:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame construction.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,000 - 3,000 miles (3,200 - 4,800 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact recommendation.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust as needed at regular intervals, typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary; typically every 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) depending on plug type and wear.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent. Capacity approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 L).
Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 50W or SAE 60W gear oil. Capacity approx. 1 US quart (0.95 L).
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 90W gear oil. Capacity approx. 1 US quart (0.95 L).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Shifter Pawl Wear:
Common issue on 4-speed transmissions; can lead to missed shifts or neutral engagement problems.
Oil Leaks:
Shovelhead engines are known for minor oil seepage; particularly around cylinder base gaskets and rocker boxes.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance, especially with age and fuel variations.
Ignition System Reliability:
Contact breaker points and mechanical advance mechanisms can require frequent adjustment and maintenance.
Belt Drive Tension:
Requires regular inspection and adjustment of belt tension to prevent premature wear.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, established 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture and V-twin engines.
Shovelhead Era:
The Shovelhead engine, introduced in 1966, was the successor to the Panhead and predecessor to the Evolution (Evo) engine. The FXEF model was a variation of the popular FX Super Glide line, often featuring custom styling elements and the larger 80 cubic inch engine by 1980.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (Harley-Davidson manufacturing facilities).
Production Period:
The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984. The FXEF model specifically ran for a few years in the late 70s and early 80s, often as a 'custom' variant.
