🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXSB Shovelhead

Year:

1981

Model Code:

FXSB

Platform:

Shovelhead

👋 Introduction

Category:

Custom Cruiser / Chopper segment of the motorcycle market.

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts performing maintenance and repairs on the FXSB Shovelhead model.

Competitors Era:

Competed against other American V-twin motorcycles, as well as Japanese and European offerings in the cruiser/custom segment.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasized classic Harley-Davidson styling, the iconic Shovelhead engine, and a rider-focused experience.

Model Distinctiveness:

The FXSB ('Super Glide Sport') variant offered a sportier, more custom-oriented appearance compared to other Big Twin models of the era, often featuring unique paint schemes and styling cues.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Covered:

All Harley-Davidson FXSB Shovelhead 1981 models

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, tuning, carburetor, ignition, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled)

Transmission:

4-speed constant mesh, clutch, final drive, primary drive

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, adjustments

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, starting system, wiring diagrams

Bodywork:

Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including component specifications

Adjustments:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, clutch and brake adjustments

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (if digitally created), allowing for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

Designed for clarity and readability, essential for technical procedures.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin OHV (Shovelhead)

Displacement:

73.75 cubic inches (1207 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.4375 in x 4.00 in (87.3 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.0:1

Horsepower:

Estimated 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, depending on tuning and specific components)

Torque:

Estimated 65-70 lb-ft (at crankshaft, depending on tuning and specific components)

Carburetor:

Keihin butterfly carburetor (e.g., CV type) or potentially a Linkert variant depending on specific market or factory options for 1981.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, typically 87-91 octane rating.

Oil System:

Dry sump lubrication system with a remote oil tank.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for engine and oil tank combined.

Ignition System:

Breaker-point ignition system or early electronic ignition systems.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch.

Options:

N/A for standard FXSB models; typically a 4-speed transmission was standard.

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, enclosed in a primary chaincase.

Final Drive:

Belt drive.

Transmission Oil:

Typically Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmission oil or an equivalent SAE 50W gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 62.5 inches (1588 mm)

Length:

Approximately 89.3 inches (2268 mm)

Seat Height:

Approximately 27.7 inches (704 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 550-570 lbs (250-260 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically specified as a distinct GVWR for this model, but implied by chassis strength.

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing in the same manner as automobiles; ratings are not applicable.

Braking System:

Front disc brake, rear drum brake (typically).

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A. This model predates modern infotainment systems; features are focused on core mechanical and electrical operation.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A. No electronic driver assistance systems.

Connectivity Options:

N/A. No electronic connectivity features.

Dashboard Features:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), odometer, trip meter, indicator lights (oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, high beam).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,000-3,000 miles (or 6 months), whichever comes first, depending on riding conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Primary Chain Tensioner Adjustment:

Check and adjust approximately every 1,000-2,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Inspect tension and condition regularly, typically at oil change intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends SAE 20W50 motorcycle oil, or equivalent (e.g., Valvoline 20W50, Castrol GTX 20W50). Check manual for exact specifications.

Primary Chaincase Fluid:

Harley-Davidson primary chaincase lubricant or SAE 50W gear oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendations, especially for master cylinder).

Oil Leaks:

Common on older Shovelheads due to aging seals and gaskets. Manual provides procedures for seal replacement.

Pushrod Tubes:

Leaking pushrod tube seals can be a common issue requiring replacement.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors often require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and starting. Manual details tuning procedures.

Starter Solenoid:

Can sometimes fail, requiring troubleshooting and replacement. Manual covers electrical system diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Founding:

Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest American motorcycle manufacturers.

Iconic Engines:

Known for its V-twin engine configurations, including the Panhead, Shovelhead, Evolution, and Milwaukee-Eight.

Shovelhead Era:

The Shovelhead engine was produced from 1966 to 1984, succeeding the Panhead and preceding the Evolution engine.

Fxsb Introduction:

The FXSB model was introduced in 1981 as a more stylized and custom-oriented Big Twin.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and other Harley-Davidson manufacturing facilities).

Production Years For Fxsb:

1981-1982 (short production run before model updates or discontinuation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Awards:

The FXSB Shovelhead is recognized for its iconic status within Harley-Davidson's history and its contribution to the custom motorcycle culture of the 1980s.

Owner Satisfaction:

Owner satisfaction is generally high for this era of Harley-Davidson, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate the classic engineering and riding experience. Maintenance requirements are a key factor in satisfaction.

Emissions Certifications:

Compliance with emissions standards of the early 1980s, as mandated by regulatory bodies at the time of manufacture.