I've got an 83 Shovel that has failed to get me home under it's own power twice. One broken primary belt and one broken drive chain. I've owned this bike for over 10 years. When I inherited her I went through it from the ground up. Fixed anything even remotely questionable and did it correctly. Converted to electronic ignition and a Rev-Tech 5 in 4 transmission with a York clutch. This bike is the most dependable vehicle I have ever owned. As stated previously you won't be doing 1000 miles a day at 80 mph but mine will hum along at 70 all day. Last but not least is the cool factor....Off the charts.

 

You're lucky it was the primary that failed, fairly easy fix compared to the drive belt. Shovel Cool factor? ... oh Yeah! Always attract a crowd.

 

Got my 84 FLH from the original owner a few years back. He was turning 90 and had decided it was time to stop riding. Bike had 63K on it. Did a top end, fluids, tires and brakes. Since then had to replace the speedo, bendix gear and lifters.

10K later (bike shares time with my Pans) still runs like a top. Maintenance schedule is every 2500 miles for fluids. On long road trips I devote 1/2 day at the turnaound point to check fasteners and such.

Not into fast at age 70, generally cruise at 65 on the superslab, but mostly enjoy two lane blacktop on secondary routes of travel.

 

Thanks for all the info! I think I'll take a good look at it on Sunday and if I end up feeling good about it I'll pull the trigger!

 

don't shoot it! someone else may want it haha

 

have had this one 14 plus years keep up on the oil changes and regular maintainance tighten bolts replace loose ones and always keep it clean has small oil leak at crank side primary. But minor compared to normal. And only worry about noisy motor when it gets too quite. Lol. Ride Safe. Wild Bill
Ps the other ones my sporty custom when I have the need for speed.

 

You can follow the maintenance schedule in the factory service manual and you'll be fine. Take care of your shovel and it will take care of you. I've had to fix a bunch of things on mine but it you take your time and do it right, you only do it once.

I think many breakdowns are caused by lack of maintenance and beating on your bike. Post up some pics if you get it.

carl