Found a 80 FLT Tour glide with 29K miles in very good condition. Owner told me about blocking the oil breather when starting or all the oil gets thrown out when starting. Said he thought the check valve was stuck open as all the oil drains down into the engine case. Other than that he said the rear tire wears out really fast, balds in the middle. Since I don't know very much about the the older 80 cu., can someone enlighten me. Also said that the engine has a small knock in the lower end?????

Look forward to some advice!

Thanks,
Ben

 

better to post on the shovelhead forum.

but a 'small knock' never gets smaller...

on pre-1993 models the oil tank is higher than the cases and oil will seep past the check ball when the bike sits for weeks.

this is an easy fix.

tire could be owner only uses the rear brake


if you are interested in a shovel, get ready to get your hands greasy- it takes constant tending to keep them on the road.

Newer bikes are more able to withstand owner abuse and lack of regular care

mike

 

Lets see, a 32 year old bike, under 1,000 miles per year, lower end knock, spews oil when it starts, tires wear out fast and the bike is in "very good condition?" I'd look for something else. A good used shovelhead while getting harder to find is not impossible to find and if you keep looking, you'll likely find one a little newer and in better shape. Sounds like this one needs some major work.

 

hi. add one of them 82. my buddy 81.with 400,000 km on it.engine done 3 time. cylinder.stock piston. trany 2 time. oil dripping yes. every spring like most shovel.bald tire. not use enouf, both 81-82 still on road.best engine cast iron do not over heat like today bike.require more maintenance. is the price is right go for it. mrfuji

 

I owned two shovelheads and loved them both!

They do need a little TLC from time to time, but that "small knock" would cause me to look elsewhere, unless you wouldn't mind doing a total rebuild if necessary. The knock could be relatively minor.... or lead to total overhaul....

good luck......

 

As you are asking us about this bike I suggest you walk away from it! The things you mention may be easy to fix, but could be the start of other things that will need to be fixed, with the risk of costs ramping up. Take a friend if you look at it again, someone who can offer a second opinion that you value. If you are not sure of your own ability to sort it, look elsewhere.

 

I would check the Final Drive System. It is the Inclosed Chain system.
Check if it is still there and if it has leaks.