1985 FXST softail ??

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Jan 29, 2008 | 12:57 PM

buck2233

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3rd Gear

Joined: Jan 2008

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1985 FXST softail ??

Ihave just purchased this bike from my friend. I don't know much about Harleys. Is this what my bike is FXST softail?? Can someone take a look at tell me more about it. What is the engine size 1200 at 80cc ect...Also I thought the battery was weak cause the motor turns over very slow and sometimes does not even turn and I have to let off the starter switch and hit it again. The battery testedok but I bought a new one anyways and charged it overnight. I plan to try it out today. Is this normal did they not put a compression release anywhere on these. This bike also has a kick starter on it. I was told this was the last yr for that. What is a good place to get a street helmet, Windshield, and sissy bar for the wife? What items should I check on it to verify it is ok for the road. I already changed plugs in it and it runs better by doing this. The oil looks good. WhenI changed the battery I noticed that the seat latch near the gas tank does not have a rubber gromet in it to make it more stable is it supposed to have one?

Thanks
Buck

[IMG]local://upfiles/51752/857E149FA3D443CA9B9066616CD3EF80.jpg[/IMG]

Jan 29, 2008 | 01:20 PM

DeJavu

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 3,306

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From: Bellville, Tx

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

From your description it would be an FXST. Loose or corroded connectors will weaken the starter power, check, clean and tighten. The kicker can be used alone or with the starter to help it get going. Don't know about the grommet, an applicable manual(HD, Clymer or both)for this model will be necessary with this old a bike. Shovelheads are great bikes, but do require wrenching and TLC to keep them going strong. Good Luck.

Jan 29, 2008 | 04:54 PM

LRonHoover

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Joined: Jun 2005

Posts: 6,982

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From: Polygamy Plains, Utah

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

Got a picture?

85 FXST is NOT a Shovelhead.
Should be 1340 CC, V2 Evolution engine.

Good luck with it. I love those Evo's.

Jan 29, 2008 | 05:15 PM

HD7585

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Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 3,269

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From: NJ

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

The 85 fxst has a starter that most times takes 2 hits to get the evo spinning. Mines been that way since 85. The torque of the starter was increased in later years. If it's something that bothers you...........You can upgrade the starter. I live with it.......So far it's never not started due to the starter...........Good Luck with your new ride [&:]

Jan 29, 2008 | 06:21 PM

Stretchman

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Feb 2006

Posts: 2,510

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From: South Florida

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

Man, I just bought a FXSTC, and then, I read you sig. (ego deflated)

I actually was getting ready to buy an 85 FXST, but, they turned me down for credit. Ended up waiting 13 years for a Harley, and another nine for a softail. Never should've waited. I love the bike.

Stretch

Jan 29, 2008 | 08:13 PM

wbogley

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From:

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

Very nice evo! I really love the older bikes. Is that a puddle of oil under the tranny in the picture?

Jan 29, 2008 | 08:45 PM

byersmtrco

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Joined: Sep 2006

Posts: 3,714

Likes: 650

From: San Ramon, Ca

RE: 1985 FXST softail ??

All true. I had an 84 Shovel with the same Hitachi starter arangement. Usually lit right off when cold, but hot,
two times.

85's were cool. 4 sp, kick/elec (chain . . . or was that 84 FXST only?) They never did put a Shovelhead
motor in a Softail frame. They did however have a "modified" Duo/Super/Electra Glide frame in 1985 & 1986
with an Evo motor and 4 sp w/kick & elec. The FXWG. Truely the last of it's kind.

They've been tring to come up with something that cool ever since. Some came real close . . . Some
failures (Rocker . . . need I say more)

Have fun with your Evo !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!