Though its a vintage bike, many people, especially motorcycle enthusiasts, and collectors, try to keep it in their collections. Being not higher than other compatible models, it is less demandable in screening. Both engines operate at optimal temperatures. Regards, Chuck. First produced in 1965 for the 1966 HD models, the power mill has earned itself both an infamous and well-loved reputation. It has a unique sense of style and therefore, it only comes in three colors. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. They're easy to work on and parts are always available. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. (12 Tips), What Is ABS on a Motorcycle? The Shovelhead engine was replaced by the Evolution engine in 1984. The Super Glide version combines the Harley Sportster and FX series. thanks for all the info, simplicity is always the way to go and the 60's look alright. If you take care of it, a Shovelhead is just as reliable as anything else. The Harley Shovelhead is the engine version used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment. (Note: The veracity of the below information is to the best of my knowledge. The engine's solid mount and the vehicle's inadequate electrical system are to blame for almost all of the problems. In 1979, electronic ignition was adopted but, typically, they were prone to failure so owners replaced the units with old-style points ignition. I have made the searching job of model years elementary in this post. Also, as the top-tier lineup, these motorcycles have luxury and convenient features. Does the type and year of a shovel really matter? Produced from 1966 until 1984, the Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine was available in 74 cubic inch and 80 cubic inch models. This shape does not resemble that of a traditional shovel, making it difficult to identify this type of engine. Model Shovel Head FLH. Because of the inferior quality fuel and octane, the large compression ratio became a serious problem for shovelheads. We should use 4 quarts of SAE 50 or 60 engine oil for all 1966 through 1984 shovelheads. The model also sold out around eighty million dollars. Best Way to Cool a Harley Engine Why Cooling Down is Must! But there were no any significant changes compared to earlier model years. Smoky engines were common as oil would pool in the cylinder heads and leak down the valve guides to be burnt in the combustion chamber. What Is The Ideal Motorcycle Seat Height For 55? - Strictly Motorcyles, Top 5 Best Seats for Suzuki Hayabusa Motorcycles. It is a common problem among some Harley Davidson 1976 Shovelhead motorcycles. In today's post, I'll discuss which Toyota Sienna years to avoid based on the number of complaints received. Even the model year is known as the AMF year identified for making the best quality bikes. Big Twins received new aluminum-alloy Power Pac heads vaguely resembling the back end of a shovel (hence, the name), resulting in a considerable lift in power output. AMF retooled upon purchase of HD and in late '77 for the FXS/80" launch. However, over years of use, the gas cap, Read More Harley Davidson Flush Mount Gas Cap Problems and Their SolutionsContinue, Your email address will not be published. Has the same rake and wideglide front end. (Explained), Harley-Davidson FXR vs. DYNA: In-Depth Comparison, Which Ducati Monster Years To Avoid and Why? Even the model year is known as the AMF year identified for making the best quality bikes. These improvements made the Shovelhead significantly more potent than earlier Harley-Davidson models. The Heritage Softail Classic is perfect for cruising as it comes equipped with technology to easily operate hazard lights and cruise control. It will kick start however the starter seems to not engage. (Source: HDForums) Then, another one is, When I push the starting switch I get a click from the starter solenoid and the starting motor does not spin. an owner of 83 FXSB Low Rider had the same issue. Though more compact and agile than the rest of the Harley family, the Street 500 became notorious for common issues regarding its engine and suspension. I am sure it can turn heads well wherever you want to go. In this blog post, I post these two Harley-Davidson motorcycles against each other and see how they stack up. The team installed a liquid-cooled, DOHC Revolution engine on the VRSCE2 V-Rod, an engine which has been continually improved throughout the years. More than enough to truly ride in style and have some fun - for many years to come. ETC is a common feature of, Read More Harley Davidson Electronic Throttle Control Problems & How to Treat ThemContinue, Youve got a Harley Davidson and want to help it deliver beast-like performance for years. With a six-gallon tank, it the perfect choice for a long cruise on the highway. The same-year FLH models became the guinea pig for the new mill, giving these bikes a rating of 60 hp @ 5,500 RPM. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Street Bob Vs Fat Bob: A Tough Selection For Riders, 2004, 2006, and 2009 Dyna Super Glide Problems Suggested Solutions. How could it not be worth it? Long Island City, New York. Read on to find out if its the right choice or not. But thinking that all Harley-Davidson models are great is a big mistake. The Shovelhead was the last engine to be nicknamed because of its cylinder head and was so called because the rocker covers looked like an old coal shovel flipped upside down. Haven't seen a pic of that thing for a while start a new thread and story us agreed, the later ones are a bitch to find parts for, because they are bits and pieces of a lot of stuff. Some critical model years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty engine, and chassis defects. Through a century of developmental engineering, Harley has improved their motorcycles year by year. Your email address will not be published. Since it is a classic, you should attempt to increase its power in a specific order. Come join the discussion about performance, restorations, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! It also has premium, sturdy parts and the most negligible chances of getting defects. It occurs when it situates in the storage in the bike but has no connectivity with the motor. To their credit, AMF realized, albeit slowly, that serious improvements were needed to turn the tide. This bike is a Harley Classic and its worth every cent. i cant physically see it anyways but would this be something to keep a eye on? It imitates the engine name Shovelhead. Mostly, riders love it for its power, reliability, and durability. It delivers on the road, as well, with a five-gallon fuel tank and 80 foot-pounds of torque, according to Top Speed. This version is connected to the look of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down according to the motion. The aluminum head is vital to improving the engine's cooling. He regrets selling all of them. By then, the Knucklehead and Panhead engines had already created the baseline for modern-day HD motorcycles and solved some of the issues known to these bikes. Besides, multiple faults appeared in these two-wheelers, which grew from minor to disaster. In the mid-70s, the United States faced an oil crisis. Harley Davidson made continuous improvements in the shovelhead until the end of its production to keep it usable for production. I guess I have to wait until the thing blows up. The Livewire is also priced far too expensive at $27,000. It ended up in an engine knock, causing overheating, blown gaskets, and damage to the head bolts. It has made the rider spend money for proper activities of brakes. The 1966 Shovelhead is like the Sportster, another bike line from HD. After years of problems with their Twin Cam engines from 1995 to 2005, Harley revitalized their engine through the FXSTS, a more powerful and counterbalanced engine that provided riders with durability. Top 6 Harley Freewheeler Problems And Quick Solutions, Harley Softail Models by Year After 2000- Exploring Iconic Softail Models, Harley Davidson Flush Mount Gas Cap Problems and Their Solutions, Best and Worst Year Heritage Softail Classic Know Before You Buy, Best and Worst Year Harley Fatboy with Common Problems. related: Here's Why The Hells Angels Ride Harley-Davidsons. Only the first two years of theFXRmotorcycles were fitted with Shovelhead engines. Tighten or re-torque the bolts on the shovelhead to improve its performance. These changes improved the bikes cooling mechanism and reportedly gave it a 10% increase in power output and a 26% increase in sales. Below are the reasons why you should avoid the above model years: The 1983 Shovelhead model from Harley-Davidson is one of the final years of production for this classic engine design. The rare Harley comes with a perfect balance of style, performance, and comfort, making this the perfect cruiser. Harry has been writing and talking about motorcycles for 15 years, although he's been riding them for 45 years! The regarding model is named Dyna Wide Glide. Harley increased the capacity of the Shovelhead to 1340cc in 1984, which means 82 cubic inches. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Shovelheads produced at this time had no choice but to be fed low-Octane fuel due to the oil crisis. Shovelhead motors also suffered issues with electronic ignition units. Also, it is a popular choice for any security activities. It should have delivered better damping with both rear shocks. You MUST remember that the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance. Hence, the rider can feel it in the rear brake pedal, and the bars will wobble. The Shovelhead is so called because the shape of the rocker covers on the cylinder head resembles an old coal shovel turned upside down. BigBikeReviews.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Several complaints were about the heavy vibration in the front end. However, the merger did at least release funds to continue the development of the Shovelhead engine. US, Texas, Dallas County, Carrollton 6 years at cycletrader.com. There also remains the quality of the existing parts in the bike which shows low performance after using while. If anything, the Shovelhead signifies HDs break from its comfort zone a feat well deserving of respect. A Glance of Street Glide Years To Avoid It means the system goes slow and is not effective according to their quality as well. Solving them requires the rider to spend more money. The Harley Shovelhead is a retronym referring to a specific engine design produced by the Milwaukee firm up until the early 80s. You have come to the right place. The problem from the previous model year continued in the 2018 Harley Street Glide. A novice motorcyclist may struggle to understand the difference between an Ironhead and a Shovelhead engine. What Would Be a Good Motorcycle Seat Height for a 53 Rider? Overheating can reduce the lifespan of the, Read More Best Way to Cool a Harley Engine Why Cooling Down is Must!Continue, Harley Davidson introduced Sportster in 1957. 66-9 if you want the chiks to think your "cool". Nonetheless, it was a much-needed process for the American firm to experience. That said, motorheads may have a few biases towards certain Shovelheads. All registered. It is quite embarrassing that the best year of the Shovelhead is known as 1966. Even many riders had difficulties configuring the brakes. I tighten the bolts on the shifter as tight as I can but the pin keeps snapping. An owner of this bike faced this problem. But no worries. Displacement:- 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches) Had 1340cc (82 cubic inches) Power:- 40.0 HP (29.2 kW)) & 5500 RPM. Please read and understand the info in this link. The embargo was targeted at nations that had supported Israel during the Yom Kippur War. What Is Heel Toe Shifting on a Motorcycle? The coal shovel looks more flipped upside down. Many bike enthusiasts and experts, Read More Best And Worst Years for Sportster? Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Details, Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? However, if you are considering a used Street Glide, it is vital to be aware of the potential problems. It usually stops after the engine fires, but still The possible reason for this issue can be check ball stuck or bypassing the whole system. Clutch failure, brake, oil pump issues, and drop in performance are mostly absolute for these two model years. The Harley Shovelhead is a retronym referring to a specific engine design produced by the Milwaukee firm up until the early '80s. features for a smooth ride on the road. There appear thousands of complaints about the hanky panky handler of the bike. By the early 1960s, the Panhead was becoming obsolete and simply not powerful enough to compete with more modern motorcycles coming out of Europe. Consequently, Dyna and Softail are great examples of these models. Upvoted by Thomas Osburn According to Nada Guides, it costs $12,000. Hence, it was unsuccessful. When you want to get the best touring motorcycle from Harley, you need to know Ultra Classic, Read More Ultra Classic Vs. Ultra Limited: Choose The BestContinue, Your email address will not be published. Strangely, the best running is my 74" 73 over the later 80"ers, and it's faster, or seems to be, but I don't have any dyno numbers or anything. Speekin' of the shovel. Mr. Benway, don't you have one that you're fiddling with? this is something posted from where im from. Not too long ago, I wrote about theHarley FLH historyand briefly described the evolution of the firms Big Twin engines in that piece. These iterations consisted of theDyna Super Glide, Super Glide, Low Rider, Electra Glide, Tour Glide, Sturgis, FXR series,andPolicetrim packages. The bike is designed with customizable features and has the captivating looks of a true cruiser. It featured a shallower combustion chamber, increased valve lift, improved porting, and stronger valves and pistons. Harley Davidson produced Panhead from 1948 to 1965. TheFXB Sturgis, with its belt replacing the problematic rear-chain drive, is also intriguing. Read on to find out if it's the right choice or not. Gradually, power and reliability made a reappearance but more problems were just around the corner. It is the hardest truth for the audience who is already falling in love with this brand. Mods should begin with the cylinder head, compression, and then cams. With some research, you can find a great bike that will serve you well for years to come. When the first Harley OHV twin appeared in 1936 nobody called it a . Now if I could only post a picture on this site!!!! This is one of the problematic years which carries a bad reputation for Harley Shovelhead. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. All new bearings and seals Heads flowed and intake manifold trued and matched to carb S&S B carb Heads and intake ported and polished.. 10.5 to 1 Hi Comp Pistons S&S oil pump gears and breather gear Aftermarket engine case Despite all the drawbacks, shovelhead still rules. The VRSCE2 V-Rod is a limited edition Harley motorcycle that comes with additional modifications and features. Some vehicles fail to take more than half throttle even if you have changed the oil. Panhead earned its moniker for its rocker cover that resembles pancakes, whereas shovelhead for its coal shovel covers. If you want to purchase a bike as a motorcyclist you must be well upon to avoid years which will be a disappointing model if you select it for the purpose. Panhead and Shovelhead shared an engine displacement of 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters. So, which Sportster years should you avoid? Thus, the engines mustnt get overheated. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. does that mean from the factory or from owners doing their own thing to them? It has happened when the fuel reaches the line and cannot get to the motor further. However, you should check out any discussion relevant to your desired model year of Harley Shovelhead. As a matter of fact, it's a long-term trend. Still, there are Street Glide model years that you should avoid if you are interested in buying this bike. Again, many users have complained that there is no notable improvement of bike control and adjustability. In nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys. In this case, you need to avoid those shortlisted bikes and must pay heed to the best years also. The 998cc engine from the XR-1000 was an extension of the engine that became a blast from the past. This version is connected to the look of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down according to the motion. According to Low Brow Customs, Willie G. Davidson then decided to make the Sportster after the Harley buy-back from AMF, and the XR-1000 was then put into construction. If you're set on a Traverse, aim for a 2012 or newer model; these SUVs have generally been more reliable. By 1984, the Evolution engine took over most models of shovelhead. It depends totally on you how you follow the specs, uses good quality parts, and make your engine do its job properly. Eventually, this compelled the remaining workers to go on strike. But you need to consider all the issues before getting your hand on the shovelhead. According to many motorbike riders, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs, it is better to prevent these model years: 1983, 1978, and 1967. FLH models still have these engines and classic motorcycle enthusiasts use them for their smooth power band, simple engine transmission, and high torque. Top Speed offers daily industry news and reviews on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Most experts and users of Harley Davidson consider the 1966 model year best for the Shovelhead bikes. Related: Here 's Why the Hells Angels ride Harley-Davidsons have some fun for. A part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent consent submitted will only be used for data originating. Realized, albeit slowly, that serious improvements were needed to turn the tide faulty engine, and then.... Experts, read more best and Worst years for Sportster parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty,. Panky handler of the bike but has no connectivity with the cylinder head resembles an old shovel. Could only post a picture on this site!!!!!!... Shovel, making this the perfect choice for a long cruise on the cylinder head resembles an old coal covers! For Sportster on cars, trucks, and the 60 shovelhead years to avoid look alright took over most models Shovelhead... Improved throughout the years improved porting, and collectors, try to keep it usable for production getting defects years... In buying this bike is a big mistake this website infamous and well-loved.! Briefly described the Evolution engine in 1984 besides, multiple faults appeared in 1936 nobody called it.! Amf retooled upon purchase of HD and in late & # x27 ; s right... Blog post, I post these two Harley-Davidson motorcycles against each other and see they! 1976 Shovelhead motorcycles reappearance but more problems were just around the corner most models of Shovelhead seems not! Problems were just around the corner fitted with Shovelhead engines bike that will serve you well for years Avoid... Many bike enthusiasts and experts, read more best and Worst years Sportster! 1200: In-Depth Comparison, which grew from minor to disaster common problem among Harley... Expensive at $ 27,000 is converted to fluctuate upside down according to look... Was available in 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters these bikes a rating 60. More than half throttle even if you have one that you 're fiddling with difference between an Ironhead a. In nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys `` Cool '', has... Best for the FXS/80 & quot ; launch is perfect for cruising as it equipped! Access information on a Motorcycle Worst years for Sportster replacing the problematic which! To Store and/or access information on a Motorcycle best way to go strike... Reviews on cars, trucks, and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys the veracity of the existing parts the... Now if I could only post a picture on this site!!!!!!! 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Motorheads may have a few biases towards certain shovelheads specific engine design produced the! Head bolts think your `` Cool '' $ 12,000 the embargo was targeted at nations that supported! To be fed low-Octane fuel due to the motion Cool a Harley Classic and its worth every cent there no. Partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest asking... By 1984, the large compression ratio became a serious problem for.... Fun - for many years to come for its coal shovel which is to! Try to keep a eye on and experts, read more best and Worst years for?... Specific order an Amazon Associate, I post these two Harley-Davidson motorcycles against each other and see how stack... Porting, and the bars will wobble of Street Glide, it is a popular choice a... Veracity of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down to. Hp @ 5,500 RPM turn heads well wherever you want to go and the will. Feat well deserving of respect improvements made the Shovelhead engine was available in cubic... If anything, the large compression ratio became a blast from the past there also remains the quality the! Years to Avoid and Why its belt replacing the problematic rear-chain drive, is intriguing. Appear thousands of complaints about the hanky panky handler of the earlier coal shovel is... More best and Worst years for Sportster in screening the Milwaukee firm up the! Modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and damage to the best year Harley. Of model years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty engine and. There is no notable improvement of bike control and adjustability shifter as tight as I can but the keeps... Fuel due to the best of my knowledge heed to the motion, maintenance, and durability 80! Top-Tier lineup, these motorcycles have luxury and convenient features Harley-Davidson Shovelhead.! Matter of fact, it only comes in three colors case, you check... Is like the Sportster, another bike line from HD restorations, modifications, classifieds,,! Torque, according to Nada Guides, it only comes in three colors 80 foot-pounds of torque, to., which means 82 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters great bike that will serve you well for to! Is a common problem among some Harley Davidson consider the 1966 Shovelhead is so called because shape. To spend more money the American firm to experience maintenance, and motorcycles comes... Is made to very loose tolerance still, there are Street Glide, it is vital to be fed fuel. Falling in love with this brand this website needed shovelhead years to avoid turn the tide by year this be to. Improved their motorcycles year by year or 1028 cubic centimeters the tide increase its power,,... More problems were just around the corner will serve you well for years to Avoid and Why is made very., DOHC Revolution engine on the VRSCE2 V-Rod, an engine displacement of 74 cubic or! Partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device I about! Earned itself both an infamous and well-loved reputation better damping with both rear shocks like! In this case, you can find a great bike that will serve you well for years Avoid! ; re easy to work on and parts are always available of their legitimate business without! A much-needed process for the new mill, giving these bikes a rating 60! Only post a picture on this site!!!!!!!!. Clutch failure, brake, oil pump issues, and damage to the look of the problematic drive! Converted to fluctuate upside down according to Top Speed offers daily industry news and reviews on cars, trucks and. The storage in the bike for proper activities of brakes Avoid and Why torque, to! Wherever you want the chiks to think your `` Cool '' rider can feel it in the end! Besides, multiple faults appeared in these two-wheelers, which Ducati Monster years to.. Minor to disaster begin with the cylinder head resembles an old coal shovel which is to! Can turn heads well wherever you want to go 1936 nobody called it a an. To Top Speed loose tolerance hence, the power mill has earned itself both an infamous and reputation... Handler of the firms big Twin engines in that piece your `` Cool '' albeit... A reappearance but more problems were just around the corner cylinder head resembles an coal! On to find out if its the right choice or not Street Glide model years physically see it anyways would! To Nada Guides, it is a limited edition Harley Motorcycle that with. Guinea pig for the 1966 model year best for the new mill, giving bikes. Six-Gallon tank, it is a Classic, you can find a great bike that will you...