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I have an older (1967) Harley that I believe is a Slabside Shovelhead, but I'm trying to get some confirmation on that bit of information before I start digging into the history of it (wouldn't want to go down the wrong rabbit hole)... any information or even a place to start getting information would be greatly appreciated!
This is the bike in 1983:
And these are as it left to start its trip back to life - and progress on it.
Generator style shovel is what you have . I believe if memory serves me right, cone or alternator style came out in 1970. Nice bike to start on. I envy you. Like to have one like that build. have a good time.
Last edited by jackstrr; Nov 8, 2011 at 12:15 AM.
Reason: lk .gf
Thanks for the advice and help identifying it. Is there a best place to get the HD service manual - or just the usual EBay or Google?
Is there anything specific I should know about these particular bikes (either maintenance or riding-wise) that will save me some headache and frustration in the future?
Older iron needs more frequent maintenance but are a great ride. Yours looks like it could use some TLC. Someone put a Sporty front end on it at one point. I prefer the original style front end. Think I would get rid of the exhaust and go back to a more traditional look. Also appears as though thy used FX style shocks and rear fender.
The battery tray supports the 32amp style. If you stay with that use a 32 amp sealed type. Lots of places sell them. Got mine from Jireh. Means no more spilled battery acid.
Take your time and go through it a section at a time rather than taking it down to all of its bits and pieces. Makes it easier when you have a small pile of parts and also easier during reassembly when you are trying to remember where the parts fit.
Take pictures along with reading the manual. Always helped me. Looks like a nice project at any rate.
What are your plans for the bike?
Last edited by panz4ever; Nov 8, 2011 at 10:21 AM.
Thanks for all of the great info. I plan on getting it up and running safely for starters and then using it as a primary ride for awhile. After that, I hope I'll know more about bikes and have a better idea where to go from there.
I will definitely be getting the OEM manual and keep it in the best shape possible. I've heard that these bikes are prone to needing much maintenance, so I figure I better stay on top of it!
Well 1967 was a good year for early shovels. I suggest you find the FL Parts Catalog (99456-82) to go along with the Service manual. Here is some information. The oil pump was basically the same pump from 1936. 1968 it changed. If you look in the part catalog, the pump is listed as "1967/earlier" and "1968/later". The gear side cases are the same until the last year of the generator, 1969. The Primary side is the same back to 1952. The crank is the same so no changes until 1973. The timing uses a Distributor. It is the same one used until replaced with the Cone.
Please get the Harley Service Manual, 1959-1969 Electra Glide Models (99482-69) and the Part Catalog for FL Models, 1941 to 1982 (99456-82). It will give a much better chance you will get it right the first time. You can still buy them new from Harley. Or look around the web, like eBay.
Last edited by Ultra89Rider; Nov 9, 2011 at 01:33 AM.
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