I just procured an 83' Shovelhead, FXRS w/only 600 something miles.. unreal. Brother in law owned it and never really rode it (obviously). I now have it running pretty good, some carb. adjustment is still needed.

My question is this: it appears to be leaking oil around the valve/rocker cover on one of the cylinders and I need some advice on fixing that. A friend has suggested that with the low miles, it may just be in need of re-torquing? If so, how should I go about that... getting torque specs and all? Also, will I have to take the gas tank off?

Thanks for any advice!

Max

 

I would find a book on shovel heads. There are a lot of good shovel head mechanics around and there are a few shovel head non mechanics around. I like a book for reference. Not to put down shovel heads but it will make you a better mechanic if you keep it. Never seen a HD engine I didn't like but each one has its strengths and weaknesses.

 

an 83 with 600 miles? Seals a DONE. The motor itself is going to be pretty good, but seals fail over time. 25 years is a LONG time and most of its siblings have already been through numerous teardowns. Once you start riding her, its just a matter of time before all the seals start to go.

Now, thats not a bad thing. Tearing the engine down to replace seals and such is a good way to inspect the internals. my two cents.

And welcome to the boards!!

 

Don't use synthetic oil. Synthetic will find leaks points where regular oil can't. I agree with the advice, get a service manual. You'll have a lot more fun working on the bike and figuring things out if you have a manual to go by. Make friends with and buy your parts from a local indy. He'll give you more help and advice than you can use if he knows you're going to use him for goodies.

 

Seals are dried out.. get a book, get a top end seal kit, get out yer wrenches..
I never met a Shovel I didn't love, and I loved wrenchin on em as well..... Yer turn.
Blessings..

 

Now that sounds like a good over-the-winter project, but seeing it's your first ride I'd get a manual and become one with it or find a good indy that is willing to help you along.

 

Alot of work! Sell me the bike cheap and quickly... it's good karma.