I'm in the process of buying my first shovel for a custom project, the bike is an 82' model, I've heard plenty of horror stories about them, a shovel is what I want nobody can change that, what are engine mods that can improve lubrication to the top end, a good carb setup, etc. any help would be appreciated!

 

s&s carb - is easy to tune and clean

valva touch lifters - helps prevent lifter pump-up

locking exhaust pipe bolt - keeps exhaust pipe tight

 

Funny, I'm not a huge fan of S&S carbs... I have an Edelbrock on mine that I really love. No flat spots... Very smooth acceleration and a little bit less fuel consumption, with plenty of s**t & git. I know I'll probably get blasted for that, everyoe thinks I'm crazy for not liking S&Ss... Oh well.

An oil cooler is a nice addition and not that expensive. Free flowing airbox and a free flowing exhaust (but a little baffle will give a little touch of back pressure and give you a little better bottom end torque).

The exhaust bolt thing is a must! That's the biggest problem I've had with my 80 FLT. That rear exhaust bolt backing out has cost me more than any other issue... period. I got to the point that I safety wire it.

I find other than that, mine's been rock solid. I upped the compression and got a little extra oomph out of her without having to do much. My heads are flowed.

That's it on mine and I've had very little engine issue whatsoever. She doesn't like sitting in traffic! But then my old Evo never did either. But the Shovel's much less forgiving of hot traffic sitting. She'll ping like no other quick!

John F.

 

thanks for the helpful input guys!

 

You can get weld on flanges to make the exhaust three bolt instead of one...might look into it if you have the motor apart.

 

would an top end oiler kit be a good investment, and also changing lifters,pushrods, and rockers?

 

if you going to do a total top end get the best parts you can afford and install them with attention to detail and you will have a dependable motor to enjoy for many miles. i have half assed a top end builds with poor results.

 

can someone explain this more?

 

here you go


http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/.../1081-0001.htm

 

CV carb and VOES. HB125 primary chain tensioner and LBV secondary chain tensioner