Upvoted by Thomas Osburn But the model years of 2017 and 2018 did not fulfill the needs of the riders. There also remains the quality of the existing parts in the bike which shows low performance after using while. Harley-Davidson Evo vs. Twin Cams: Which Is The Best Cam? Read on to find out if its the right choice or not. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-leader-1-0');The shovelhead engine took its name from an old coal shovels appearance of its rocker head. (Explained), Which Harley Road King Years to Avoid and Why? (Anneversary model) A Softail Custom looks identical to the wideglide, only no rear shocks. With so many positives, there are reasons why you may not love to own this bike. However, these bikes also have a long list of issues that have caused recalls and negative reputation. Look around a little the perfect one will show up. Start with something that runs and has a clear title. Regular adjustment of the valve and drive train is required. In this blog, I have discussed the model years of Harley Davidson Shovelhead to avoid. The whole system gets clingy which is a result of worse service. I was a professional mechanic for over a decade, can fab/weld, etc., so thats pretty much covered. The barrels had only ten cooling fins which werent sufficient and the engine ran hot. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. offer him 4 and bank a G incase fit hits the shan but I bet you'll dig a shovel I would. Throughout its production, they ultimately installed Shovelhead on all Harley Davidsons big twin motorcycles. Manage Settings 66 mainly because that is what mine is.muahaha!! series. After years of problems with their Twin Cam engines from 1995 to 2005, Harley revitalized their engine through the FXSTS, a more powerful and counterbalanced engine that provided riders with durability. Best And Worst Years for Sportster? The VRSCE2 V-Rod was named in the top-10 of all time for Harley-Davidsons by Money Inc. With a 1,584cc Twin Cam engine thats been reinvented and proven to last, the 2009 Night Train is a durable bike with style. Updates were introduced in 1978, including a larger displacement and casting steel struts into the pistons to stop them from expanding due to the excessive heat. I'll also tell you which years are the finest to buy if you're searching for a dependable minivan. The. - Govmule84, Wannabe Hipster. In 1969, American Machine and Foundry (AMF) bought a controlling stake in Harley Davidson and tried to turn the company around by slashing the workforce and cost-cutting in the production processes. Now if I could only post a picture on this site!!!! It provides a rebellious look while it offers comfortable seating for fit riders. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. 2. Shovelhead: The Dark Days of Harley Davidson. The first years, 66-69 (generator bottom). Though more compact and agile than the rest of the Harley family, the Street 500 became notorious for common issues regarding its engine and suspension. Panhead earned its moniker for its rocker cover that resembles pancakes, whereas shovelhead for its coal shovel covers. Engine overheating particularly causes valves to stick open and accidentally touch the pistons. Some folks sharing this sentiment blame the HD-AMF (American Machine & Foundry) partnership. var cid='2667505640';var pid='ca-pub-9716506252124088';var slotId='div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-medrectangle-3-0';var ffid=1;var alS=1021%1000;var container=document.getElementById(slotId);var ins=document.createElement('ins');ins.id=slotId+'-asloaded';ins.className='adsbygoogle ezasloaded';ins.dataset.adClient=pid;ins.dataset.adChannel=cid;ins.style.display='block';ins.style.minWidth=container.attributes.ezaw.value+'px';ins.style.width='100%';ins.style.height=container.attributes.ezah.value+'px';container.style.maxHeight=container.style.minHeight+'px';container.style.maxWidth=container.style.minWidth+'px';container.appendChild(ins);(adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({});window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId,'stat_source_id',44);window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId,'adsensetype',1);var lo=new MutationObserver(window.ezaslEvent);lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId+'-asloaded'),{attributes:true});Harley Davidson Shovelhead is one of those engines that are infamous yet well-loved by Harley enthusiasts all around the world. Regards, Chuck. According to Nada Guides, the bike sells in good condition for $8,400. Harley 103 Stage 4 vs. 110: Head to Head Comparison, Harley DYNA vs. Sportster: Which One is Better? This shape does not resemble that of a traditional shovel, making it difficult to identify this type of engine. whats so great about the generator verses alternator? How could it not be worth it? It made a long run that lasted through 1983, but it's not been forgotten. There also appears the non-moisture sump of the engine. Shovelhead: In Short Comparison. These problems include oil spraying out, oil refilling, points and firing, and clutch issues. I guess I have to wait until the thing blows up. If you can talk to the "original" owner you should just get it. this spring when I took it out for the first time after about 15 minutes of riding the clutch would not disengage someone talked about this problem on HDForums. Moreover, there found the defects of chassis of the vehicle what makes the whole control system of the tire and break so inaccurate position. The model of 1966 is almost looking like a Sportster but not even it deals with when firstly the famous Sportster released out. Welcome to this blog on Street Glide years to avoid. "No one knows what they don't know." The Dyna Wide Glide is a customized rider's dream. Tires get uneven which is because the pressure has appeared. Because of the inferior quality fuel and octane, the large compression ratio became a serious problem for shovelheads. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'strictlymotorcycles_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_13',111,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');The oil pools in the crankcase, or cylinder heads, lead to potential engine damage and overheating. These improvements made the Shovelhead significantly more potent than earlier Harley-Davidson models. You MUST remember that the Shovelhead is made to very loose tolerance. The workforce was trimmed down, too, resulting in overworked staff and sub-par quality control. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-strictlymotorcycles_com-banner-1-0');Harley Davidson riders demanded more power for heavier bikes with rear suspension and electric starters. Had it not been for innovative Japanese offerings and consumer demand for more reliable, powerful bikes, Harley would not have had reason to reinvent the engine. The sales of this bike were more than 50K units in its first year. They are the most sought after and will demand more dollars to purchase. They have faced and beat the consistent ups and downs since they started a business. 1994 and later models have fully-weather-proofed electrical wiring.But perhaps the biggest change came in 2004, Bennetts reports, when the motorcycle got a brand-new frame and rubber-mounted engine. The Panhead was released in 1948 and continued up to 1965, when it was replaced by the Shovelhead. Yes they look cool as hell and chicks dig em. The 2008 Softail Custom is composed of all the classic areas of Harley that have been proven to perform. On the downside, it sported an enclosed final chain drive that made tire servicing a pain. im sure i'll get bashed for this but whats so great about the generator verses alternator? The 2009 Electra Glide was a Harley built for touring. 1981 was just a bad year in general for Harley-Davidson, but it could be argued that this Sportster was the company's worst effort at the time. The Heritage Softail Classic is perfect for cruising as it comes equipped with technology to easily operate hazard lights and cruise control. Best Way to Cool a Harley Engine Why Cooling Down is Must! As a result, it falls beneath. Most experts and users of Harley Davidson consider the 1966 model year best for the Shovelhead bikes. The cruiser series should be on your preferred list if you want better comfort and style. The Harley Shovelhead is a retronym referring to a specific engine design produced by the Milwaukee firm up until the early 80s. I tighten the bolts on the shifter as tight as I can but the pin keeps snapping. An owner of this bike faced this problem. The Road King vs Street Glide battle will show you the superiority of these two touring models from, Read More Harley Davidson Road King vs Street Glide: An In-Depth ComparisonContinue, The Ultra Classic and Ultra Limited are two top-of-the-line touring motorcycles from Harley Davidson. Slabs, Pimples, and Cones, 1966-85 thats alot to cover and alot of variety. It imitates the engine name Shovelhead. Mostly, riders love it for its power, reliability, and durability. To adapt to more modern two-wheelers of the day, Harley Davidson introduced the Shovelhead in the latter part of the 60s. Two common issues with 1967 Shovelhead clutch disengagement and shifting. Since it is a classic, you should attempt to increase its power in a specific order. The hydraulic clutch systems secondary actuator leaks in the 2018 model. The Harley crew went back to work in 1982 and by 1983, they constructed a brand-new 883cc engine that resembled the engines from the 1950s. In case you are ignorant of the reasons for Harley Davidson engine names, it's quite simple. Those issues can be repaired but it is all about the money spent. Called the Evolution and featuring aluminum cylinder barrels and heads, it marked the turnaround in fortunes for the company that everyone, from employees to customers, had been waiting for. Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. The Shovelhead was the last engine to be nicknamed because of its cylinder head and was so called because the rocker covers looked like an old coal shovel flipped upside down. Street Glide is a fantastic bike showing power and sophistication. Shovelhead models sell for anything from a couple of thousand dollars up to $10,000+. According toRider Magazine, it had a frame-mounted dresser (fairing) and an interesting steering arrangement where the steering head was hidden behind the fork tubes. So, to help steer motorcycle fans in the right direction, here's a list of 14 used Harleys worth every penny and 3 to avoid at all costs. (12 Tips)Continue, With consumer demands becoming more stringent, motorcycle OEMs are constantly pushed to improve their mass-produced bikes while outdoing the competition. At Big Bike Reviews, we cover motorcycles, electric bikes, scooters, and more. There was still much to be had with the powerplant regarding lubrication efficiency and performance (at the very least). A new Harley Davidson big twin engine is always a momentous occasion but the replacement for the Panhead, the Shovelhead, turned out to be the worst engine Harley ever built and, combined with the dark days of the AMF custodianship of the company, marked a difficult period that Harley was lucky to survive. This bike is one of the best ever made by Harley. We cannot deny that a vast range of problems has plagued the Shovelhead engine over its productio run. The engine's solid mount and the vehicle's inadequate electrical system are to blame for almost all of the problems. He found the clutch fails to disengage when it is needed. I owned a '68 Shovelhead and rode it all over the West and Midwest. Required fields are marked *. Now, the reinvented Twin Cam provides durability for riders. 66 rebuilt shovelhead motor only $3500 obo Flywheels Balanced an Trued New Rods and Crankpins. The engine had big problems right from the outset, some terminal, although eventually, Harley enjoyed a 26-percent sales increase thanks to the new engine. Starting from 2006, it has the same frame as another popular HD Road Glide. Required fields are marked *. Otherwise, their performance will drop significantly. Then, who is the, Read More Super Glide vs Wide Glide: Which Is Better For Your Riding Mode?Continue, Many Harley Davidson consumers want to sell their old motorcycles. Last edited by a moderator: Nov 4, 2009. The ignition is mot electronic and need regular adjustments and replacement of contacts. However, some model years of Shovelhead were not up to the mark. The Twin Cam engine on the Dyna Wide Glide was finally mastered by 2014 after years of failure. This is definitely a Harley worth investing in. Mechanically inclined parts are so much unreliable for the users. I've never owned an EVO but I have worked on many Buying shovelhead to chop: what to avoid? By 1984, the Evolution engine took over most models of shovelhead. The Ironhead sportster was a horrendous technological failure in the 1970s and 1980s. This bike is a Harley Classic and its worth every cent. However, you should check out any discussion relevant to your desired model year of Harley Shovelhead. One is the condition of the engine (stock or new). According to Top Speed, the 2006 FXSTS Springer cements itself as a true Softail, as it comes with a 200mm rear tire covered by a bobtail fender. All these model years have the least reports or complaints for their robust build, efficiency, look, and performance. The Shovelhead engine is a motorcycle engine that was produced by Harley-Davidson from 1966 to 1984, built as a successor to the previous Panhead engine. So, you can select this model year too. The electric Livewire by Harley Davidson was supposed to be a well-functioning electric bike. 1988 FXRS Low Rider and FXRS-SP Sports Model, Oil containment issues resulting in oil burning in the combustion chamber, overheating, and loss of power. Toyota Sienna Years to Avoid (List of Years) Avoid the following Toyota Sienna years if you want a long-lasting vehicle. It could all have been so very different. For being fragile material, it creates uncomfortably among users. Whether odd engineering decisions or Harleys turbulent partnership with AMF is to blame is left for you to discover in todays article. Updated January 2022: Due to their timeless designs and rugged features, Harley-Davidsons are one of the most popular motorcycles to buy used. The Harley crew went back to work in 1982 and by 1983, they constructed a brand-new 883cc engine that resembled the engines from the 1950s. With no alternative engine, the Shovelhead was fitted to all of the companys Big Twin models, even though the engines weight caused steering and handling problems, not helped by the rudimentary suspension of the time. The Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine was first launched in 1966. . Though its a vintage bike, many people, especially motorcycle enthusiasts, and collectors, try to keep it in their collections. HotCars covers all things automotive: the latest auto news and informative reviews on the car, pickup truck and motorcycle industries. It is also known as oil loss manufacture. During the said period, AMF cut down production costs and employee compensation. Take somebody with you that is thinking straighter than you too that way you dont end up with the piece of shit of your dreams. How often should we lubricate Harley Davidson chain? Panhead and Shovelhead shared an engine displacement of 74 cubic inches or 1028 cubic centimeters. The members of the organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), led by Saudi Arabia, proclaimed an oil embargo. does that mean from the factory or from owners doing their own thing to them? Sometimes the brakes do not work correctly in Street Glide 2018. Several complaints were about the heavy vibration in the front end. Top 6 Harley Freewheeler Problems And Quick Solutions, Harley Softail Models by Year After 2000- Exploring Iconic Softail Models, Harley Davidson Flush Mount Gas Cap Problems and Their Solutions, Best and Worst Year Heritage Softail Classic Know Before You Buy, Best and Worst Year Harley Fatboy with Common Problems. This is because of the lack of research and manufacturing malfunction of the company management. Aside from the obvious desirability of generator motors, it's often been said that the last couple of years were very well engineered as they were increasing quality (compared to some of the early AMF years) in advance of Evo production. It is another issue with the 78 Shovelhead motorcycle. Alternatively, it replaces the wired connection with an electronic connection. Some critical model years had severe problems with their parts, like excessive fuel consumption, faulty engine, and chassis defects. In the mid-70s, the United States faced an oil crisis. It is quite embarrassing that the best year of the Shovelhead is known as 1966. It usually stops after the engine fires, but still The possible reason for this issue can be check ball stuck or bypassing the whole system. It fails AMF bearing regulation according to their service. A Friendly Reminder - Harley Davidson Community. yeah i think if you are going to pay that kind of cash for a generator shovel it should at least have the original matching cases to start with.it would be a must to have at least the number side to keep it real.my opinion of course but i would pay substantially lower for aftermarket cases on an older shovel motor if it came thru my doors over one that had original matching cases.and hey creepyman..are you telling me you actually have a hd dealer in your area that will order or stock shovel parts ?? Of all these variations, theElectra Glide, Tour Glide,and first two years of theFXR seriesstand out the most, while the1971 Dyna Super Glideproves to be the most collectible. It featured a shallower combustion chamber, increased valve lift, improved porting, and stronger valves and pistons. Harley struggled to produce effective bikes during those dark years and released the Sportster amongst the turmoil. The bike was special in that it was years in making. Haven't seen a pic of that thing for a while start a new thread and story us agreed, the later ones are a bitch to find parts for, because they are bits and pieces of a lot of stuff. The Street Glide is known for its comfortable riding position and its smooth ride. It ended up in an engine knock, causing overheating, blown gaskets, and damage to the head bolts. You shift to 2nd gear, Read More What Is Heel Toe Shifting on a Motorcycle?Continue, Considered among the handsomest motorcycles ever produced, the Harley Davidson Knucklehead is a term that refers to both the motorcycle and the engine layout produced, Read More Harley Davidson Knucklehead Engine ReviewContinue. It's been a long time since that matters. 2004 Harley Sportster. Year 1967. Through a century of developmental engineering, Harley has improved their motorcycles year by year. This version is connected to the look of the earlier coal shovel which is converted to fluctuate upside down according to the motion. These bikes lack orthodox quality of level and standard of designated services. The manufacturer produced the Shovelhead engines from 1966 to 1984. Riding a motorcycle in the rain is an inevitable part of a motorheads life, especially for those who use their two-wheeler as a daily driver. There is an antique Harley museum near here and the owner says that Shovelheads are going to be the hot bike for Harley collectors in the next few years. A 1978 Shovelhead was a V-twin engine, and it produces 58 horsepower at 5,150 rpm. It means the system goes slow and is not effective according to their quality as well. Still, there are Street Glide model years that you should avoid if you are interested in buying this bike. Even the model year is known as the AMF year identified for making the best quality bikes. The competition is now between two different bikes. Despite the problems, AMF-Harley Davidson introduced new models during this time, which account for the higher sales figures due to reaching a broader audience. Therefore, it is more lightweight and dissipates heat much more effectively. In case you are ignorant of the reasons for Harley Davidson engine names, its quite simple. But no one can deny the company has produced some legendary cruisers. Shovelhead models from 1966 to 1975 and later uses Dot 3 brake fluid and Dot 5 brake fluid. Come join the discussion about performance, restorations, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! Similar motorcycles: A Glance of Street Glide Years To Avoid Read More Harley DYNA vs. Sportster: Which One is Better? Many used Shovels are worn the fuck out, suffered years of flogging and indifferent maintenance, and their wiring is usually trashed (throw it away and make your own harness, it's cheap and easy). It has an air-cooled engine that utilizes two valves per cylinder with pushrod operation. It enjoyed a 5-year run before being replaced by the same-displacement, rubber-mountedEvolutionpower mill. So there is no other compatible brand which can be compared to it in the perspective of quality of bike as well as machine work. The Electra Glide was given an 80 out of 100 ranking on Bikez. The Shovel Head is a Harley-Davidson engine with a storied past and a bad reputation. At StrictlyMotorcycles.com we cover all things motorcycles. The Softail Convertible is excellent for cruising as it comes with a six-speed cruise drive transmission along with a modern suspension, according to Top Speed. I own a 66 generator Shovel and as people have said they are easy to work on. Different people define motorcycles differently. The then-new layout retained all the bells and whistles of the Panhead. Another owner also reported the misfire issue in the same model in this way, We confirmed that it was the front because that plug and the cylinder were not getting hot..