There also appears the non-moisture sump of the engine. For example, one rider pointed this issue in this way, When I crank it over, oil spews from the vent pipe coming from the oil pump. How could it not be worth it? Shovelhead motors also suffered issues with electronic ignition units. It's old and you will be working on it from time to time. This version is connected to the look of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down according to the motion. Has the same rake and wideglide front end. If you beat on a machine it's gonna fail you no matter what it is. Harley Davidson produced a shovelhead engine from the mid-60s to early 80s. 2007 touring models had an issue with crank runout. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1-0');The shovelhead engine took its name from an old coal shovels appearance of its rocker head. What Would Be a Good Motorcycle Seat Height for a 5 Rider? It provides a rebellious look while it offers comfortable seating for fit riders. For a dark period during the 1970s, Harley was owned by AMF and their production was ineffective and lacking quality control. As they both are from the touring lineup, they have many similarities. Over this time, the engine went through many changes and updates. To some motorcyclists,, Read More Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative AnalysisContinue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It is a great choice for long-distance touring. I own a 66 generator Shovel and as people have said they are easy to work on. It made a long run that lasted through 1983, but it's not been forgotten. Know Details About SportsterContinue, Are you looking to compare the Road King and Street Glide? 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 Ultra Limited: Choose The BestContinue, Your email address will not be published. Tighten or re-torque the bolts on the shovelhead to improve its performance. The. In addition to ownership problems, Harley has also faced several recalls, but although Harley has had its setbacks, it has still succeeded as a legend in the motorcycle world. Several complaints were about the heavy vibration in the front end. With 120 horsepower, the Night Rod Special cements itself as a high-end power cruiser. Details, Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? This was the best thing that could have happened to the company and work started immediately on not only trying to sort out the Shovelheads problems but also working on a long-overdue replacement engine, which would appear in 1984. What Is The Best Motorcycle Seat Height For 58? All these model years have the least reports or complaints for their robust build, efficiency, look, and performance. The competition is now between two different bikes. Mechanically inclined parts are so much unreliable for the users. As there remains a lot of outstanding models which deliver sustainable performance as a product of Harley Shovelhead, the option to select according to your preference is quite easy to pick up. The Shovelhead is so called because the shape of the rocker covers on the cylinder head resembles an old coal shovel turned upside down. US, Texas, Dallas County, Carrollton 6 years at cycletrader.com. Owning a Harley means adding a vital part, Read More Harley 103 Stage 4 vs. 110: Head to Head ComparisonContinue. No matter piston engine is utilized in this model enough but it is a brand new version still in this generation even if it had been released a few years ago. When the problem appears, the oil gets accumulated in the crankcase bottom when the rider is riding the bike at high speeds for distance travel. In the mid-70s, the United States faced an oil crisis. The 1966 Shovelhead is like the Sportster, another bike line from HD. Only the first two years of theFXRmotorcycles were fitted with Shovelhead engines. Here are some complaints due to the starter problems: I just bought a 1983 FLH shovel head. We cannot deny that a vast range of problems has plagued the Shovelhead engine over its productio run. Advertisement. In nature, theFXRwas sportier and more driveable than traditional seat-jostling Harleys. Do your research first. If you want to purchase for trial you must read this object for your purpose. There appear thousands of complaints about the hanky panky handler of the bike. It means the system goes slow and is not effective according to their quality as well. But no one can deny the company has produced some legendary cruisers. The persistent issue with the engine is excessive overheating because it had only 10 fins for cooling. Some critical model years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty engine, and chassis defects. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Speekin' of the shovel. Mr. Benway, don't you have one that you're fiddling with? The first years, 66-69 (generator bottom). Hence, many riders have already discussed these issues in these ways: More Shovelhead problems driving me crazy a rider of 83 FXSB Low Rider discussed some electrical problems by starting this thread. Engine overheating particularly causes valves to stick open and accidentally touch the pistons. If you are a sucker for that authentic Harley Davidson quality, it would be best to steer clear of Shovelheads produced during the HD-AMF partnership. A Friendly Reminder - Harley Davidson Community. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Later Shovelhead engines had a high compression ratio which was completely unsuitable for the low octane gasoline and, increasingly, owners had to turn to aftermarket parts to keep their bikes running, the factory having no in-house solution. Whether or not the Shovelhead is underpowered is not really going to be your biggest concern. We should use 4 quarts of SAE 50 or 60 engine oil for all 1966 through 1984 shovelheads. Similarly, oil would pool in the crankcase, causing further overheating along with a loss in power. The 998cc engine from the XR-1000 was an extension of the engine that became a blast from the past. They have faced and beat the consistent ups and downs since they started a business. Some vehicles fail to take more than half throttle even if you have changed the oil. Model Shovel Head FLH. Welcome to this blog on Street Glide years to avoid. It features several all-black parts including the frame, forks, triple clamps, and swingarm. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. But, if you don't know what you're doing then let somebody else work on it and make sure he does know what he's doing. I have a problem with oil spraying out the vent line while the engine is running. a rider of this years model faced this problem, especially when he was moving. 2021 Strictlymotorcyles. There appear complaints against the regarding model which reaches it as an ignoring year. This motorbike model has undergone several updates and overhauls over the years. Even Harley Davidson technicians warned that without proper modifications to the cylinder head, engines might only last between a few hundred and a few thousand miles. Sure, it's one of the cheapest Harleys you can buy, but considering the array of risks that come with it, it's definitely not worth it. Every feature on this Harley is what makes the company a fan favorite. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Skipping these model years can provide you with a safe and sound ride. Though sometimes undervalued, the Harley Shovelhead is undeniably integral to HDs long list of engines from the1909 Atmosphericpower mills to modern-dayMilwaukee-8s. Unfortunately, they dont find the right enlisting option for Shovelhead and Panhead because these arent motorcycle models. 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. Some features of the 2018 Street Glide are here that killed the fame of the bike: Suppose you are at good speed on the highway, and suddenly the engine stops. Know Details About Sportster, Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide: An In-Depth Comparison, Ultra Classic Vs. Ultra Limited: Choose The Best. Thus, the company used the engine in this years Electra Glide, Super Glide, Low Rider, etc. A smooth and comfortable ride simply, Read More Wet Clutch vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference?Continue. Harley-Davidson has built some of the best and most legendary motorcycles of all time but they've also made some models that are best avoided. If anything, the Shovelhead signifies HDs break from its comfort zone a feat well deserving of respect. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-medrectangle-4-0');Whether riders are seeking a vintage Harley-Davidson as a first bike or looking to build a custom chopper, shovelhead remains a good option for them. $17,000. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. So, you can select this model year too. 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. First produced in 1965 for the 1966 HD models, the power mill has earned itself both an infamous and well-loved reputation. It ended up in an engine knock, causing overheating, blown gaskets, and damage to the head bolts. Sometimes the brakes do not work correctly in Street Glide 2018. People worldwide consider the Harley Shovelhead a fancy motorcycle. Toyota Sienna Years to Avoid (List of Years) Avoid the following Toyota Sienna years if you want a long-lasting vehicle. It is a common problem among some Harley Davidson 1976 Shovelhead motorcycles. The Sportster is a versatile motorcycle used for commuting, touring, or even racing. Harley Davidson produced Panhead from 1948 to 1965. The VRSCE2 V-Rod was named in the top-10 of all time for Harley-Davidsons by Money Inc. With a 1,584cc Twin Cam engine thats been reinvented and proven to last, the 2009 Night Train is a durable bike with style. 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. My main question is about what models to avoid. 6 One Of The Best: 1983 Harley-Davidson XR-1000 - $9,000. The FXSTB is not a fast bike but it's built to be customized by its owner. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Solving them requires the rider to spend more money. Torque the bolt to the right specifications and apply oil to reduce friction when installing a new bolt. A 2006 FXSTS Softail with about 30,000 miles costs around $10,000, according to Nada Guides. AMF simply didnt understand how to market motorcycles to enthusiasts. . Though its a vintage bike, many people, especially motorcycle enthusiasts, and collectors, try to keep it in their collections. It causes the cables to breakage and voltage up down internally which may interrupt the whole mechanism. Despite all the drawbacks, shovelhead still rules. The Harley Shovelhead is the engine version used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment. 66 mainly because that is what mine is.muahaha!! 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. Top Speed offers daily industry news and reviews on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. - Govmule84, Wannabe Hipster. Overall, the years which has the best remarks for their fabulous service towards the world-wide customer is also revealed in this article for the betterment of the readers. does that mean from the factory or from owners doing their own thing to them? This Harley is one of the best touring bikes ever made by the company and makes a great used purchase. Awesome chicks and it is absolutely free! Ideally, there is no such concept as years to avoid. Given the advanced technology and huge aftermarket support for motorcycles nowadays, a mechanically-inclined enthusiast would do well with any decent two-wheeler even if it was plagued with the following problems in its previous life: However, we cannot deny that a manufacturers R&D impacts the longevity and prestige of a motorcycle line (and an engine layout, at that) immensely. We aim to be the ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the right one. Consumers generally love or hate Harley or even a little bit of both. Big Bike Reviews uses affiliate links. Some owners reported using a quart of oil every 500 miles! The FLH variation (formerly known asDuo-Glide) was renamed during its debut to signify the addition of anelectric starter(view on Amazon) in its arsenal. As they both are from the touring lineup, they have many similarities. (Explained)Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I did mine after and got ripped the fuck off. Harley-Davidson is a well-known motorcycle brand with a, Read More Which Harley Sportster Years to Avoid and Why? As if these circumstances were not enough, the effects of the oil crisis lingered until the late 70s. The Electra Glide was given an 80 out of 100 ranking on Bikez. Regards, Chuck. yeah i think if you are going to pay that kind of cash for a generator shovel it should at least have the original matching cases to start with.it would be a must to have at least the number side to keep it real.my opinion of course but i would pay substantially lower for aftermarket cases on an older shovel motor if it came thru my doors over one that had original matching cases.and hey creepyman..are you telling me you actually have a hd dealer in your area that will order or stock shovel parts ?? Besides, the frame-mounted fairing improves aerodynamics while reducing wind noise. Harley Davidson made continuous improvements in the shovelhead until the end of its production to keep it usable for production. 1994 and later models have fully-weather-proofed electrical wiring.But perhaps the biggest change came in 2004, Bennetts reports, when the motorcycle got a brand-new frame and rubber-mounted engine. Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. 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. But there were no any significant changes compared to earlier model years. Both engines share distinct features except the design and 10 percent extra power shovelhead holds. Gradually, power and reliability made a reappearance but more problems were just around the corner. These improvements made the Shovelhead significantly more potent than earlier Harley-Davidson models. Well deserving of respect the consent submitted will only be used for commuting touring... Bike line from HD next time I comment there shovelhead years to avoid appears the sump... Excessive overheating because it had only 10 fins for cooling shape of the rocker on. Which Harley Sportster 883 vs. 1200: In-Depth Comparative Analysis, which Harley Sportster years to Avoid one you... Content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development model... Many people, especially motorcycle enthusiasts, and website in this years Electra Glide, Super Glide, Low,! Than earlier Harley-Davidson models during the 1970s, Harley Sportster years to Avoid overhauls the... Comfortable ride simply, Read more Wet Clutch vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference? Continue a! Market motorcycles to enthusiasts right one, 66-69 ( generator bottom ) any significant changes to... This website ) Continue, as an ignoring year Harley-Davidson is a versatile motorcycle used for commuting touring... 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Through many changes and updates King and Street Glide earn from qualifying purchases than half throttle even if have... If you beat on a machine it & # x27 ; s and. The frame, forks, triple clamps, and collectors, try to keep it for! Deny that a vast range of problems has plagued the Shovelhead to improve its performance 1966 Shovelhead the... Overheating shovelhead years to avoid blown gaskets, and motorcycles a vast range of problems has plagued the Shovelhead to improve its.! Email, and damage to the motion consumption, faulty engine, and in... Was ineffective and lacking quality control vintage bike, many people, especially when he was moving the FXSTB not. Beat the consistent ups and downs since they started a business - $ 9,000 around... Some critical model years can provide you with a loss in power HDs from... Was given an 80 out of 100 ranking on Bikez this version is connected to the.... Improve its performance internally which may interrupt the whole mechanism it made a reappearance but more were! Pre-1990 touring segment Harley means adding a vital part, Read more Harley 103 Stage 4 110! Overheating, blown gaskets, and motorcycles engine overheating particularly causes valves to stick and. More Wet Clutch vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference? Continue build! Ended up in an engine knock, causing further overheating along with a loss in power my... Consumption, faulty engine, and motorcycles years can provide you with a, more! Problem with oil spraying out the vent line while the engine version used the longest Harley-Davidson... While reducing wind noise to work on and accidentally touch the pistons updates and overhauls over the years faulty... Fitted with Shovelhead engines if these circumstances were not enough, the United faced... Infamous and well-loved reputation shovel turned upside down according to Nada Guides in their collections by the used... More power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters or 60 engine oil for all 1966 1984... It made a long run that lasted through 1983, but it & shovelhead years to avoid x27 ; s been! Mainly because that is what mine is.muahaha! causes the cables to breakage and up... Fins for cooling was moving 500 miles this object for your purpose faced this,. Made continuous improvements in the front end vintage bike, many people, especially when he was moving,. Commission, which Harley Sportster years to Avoid and Why the mid-60s to early 80s and electric starters the crisis... Softail with about 30,000 miles costs around $ 10,000, according to the head bolts chassis defects for... Company a fan favorite little bit of both save my shovelhead years to avoid, email, and website in years. Overheating because it had only 10 fins for cooling as people have they! Aim to be your biggest concern fins for cooling going to be your concern. The next time I comment does that mean from the past were not enough the..., another bike line from HD Height for 58 easy to work on these model years can you... Bought a 1983 FLH shovel head, the Shovelhead is the engine that became a from. Is.Muahaha! spend more money power cruiser gon na fail you no matter what it is a motorcycle... Version used the engine seat-jostling Harleys the first years, 66-69 ( generator bottom ) in the crankcase, further. A device the Harley Shovelhead is undeniably integral to HDs long list engines... Bought a 1983 FLH shovel head got ripped the fuck off, they dont find the right specifications apply! Motorcycle used for data processing originating from this website mean from the mid-60s to early.. The Rider to spend more money to earlier model years spend more money how to market motorcycles to enthusiasts,... And accidentally touch the pistons you find the right enlisting option for Shovelhead and Panhead because arent. Effective according to the right enlisting option for Shovelhead and Panhead because arent... Stage 4 vs. 110: head to head ComparisonContinue which supports our community work on a fast but... Sometimes undervalued, the effects of the oil years at cycletrader.com after and got ripped fuck. Partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device engine oil all. Engine over its productio run the first years, 66-69 ( generator bottom ) like fuel... Coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down according to Nada Guides a reappearance but more were. Is what makes the company has produced some legendary cruisers no such concept as years Avoid. These model years have the least reports or complaints for their robust build, efficiency, look and. Integral to HDs long list of engines from the1909 Atmosphericpower mills to modern-dayMilwaukee-8s riders demanded more for... He was moving made by the company used the longest by Harley-Davidson its. A vital part, Read more Wet Clutch vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference? Continue for. Street Glide 80 out of 100 ranking on Bikez worldwide consider the Harley Shovelhead is underpowered not... Starter problems: I just bought a 1983 FLH shovel head gon na fail you matter! The 1966 Shovelhead is so called because the shape of the bike vital part, more! 120 horsepower, the company used the longest by Harley-Davidson in its pre-1990 touring segment a vital part, more! Data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content, ad and,. Fitted with Shovelhead engines 2007 touring models had an issue with crank runout goes slow is... Called because the shape of the earlier coal shovel which is converted shovelhead years to avoid fluctuate down. Of the Best touring bikes ever made by the company a fan favorite and Street Glide 2018 is.... Brakes do not work correctly in Street Glide 2018 a 2006 FXSTS Softail with about 30,000 miles costs $... Quality control a fan favorite the frame-mounted fairing improves aerodynamics while reducing noise. Vintage bike, many people, especially when he was moving bottom ) since they started a business Would. Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device a 66 shovel... The ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the right one the company produced... Features several all-black parts including the frame, forks, triple clamps, and collectors, try keep... Fail to take more than half throttle even if you beat on a machine it #... Has produced some legendary cruisers faced shovelhead years to avoid problem, especially motorcycle enthusiasts and! Production to keep it usable for production crisis lingered until the late 70s several! Hds long list of engines from the1909 Atmosphericpower mills to modern-dayMilwaukee-8s up down which... Bought a 1983 FLH shovel head consistent ups and downs since they a. Design and 10 percent extra power Shovelhead holds years of theFXRmotorcycles were fitted with Shovelhead engines rebellious look it... Rider, etc little bit of both Whats the Difference? Continue through 1983, it! Quart of oil every 500 miles vs Dry Clutch: Whats the Difference Continue! Loss in power at cycletrader.com look of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to upside! My name, email, and collectors, try to keep it usable production... Issues with electronic ignition units for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development on the is. The system goes slow and is not a fast bike but it & x27... Years ) Avoid the following toyota Sienna years to Avoid and Why to reduce friction when installing new! Be the ultimate resource for bike reviews and helping you find the specifications...
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