🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Harley-Davidson Model: FLH Year: 1981 Engine Type: Shovelhead V-Twin Chassis Code: FLH Product Type: Service Repair Manual Product Format: PDF Download 👋 Introduction Market Position Value Proposition: Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly Competitive Analysis Alternative Sources: Avoids overpriced paper textbooks or CD-ROMs delivered via mail Key Features Core Benefit: Comprehensive factory service information for self-repair and maintenance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Harley-Davidson Shovelhead FLH 1981 All Styles Covered: Yes Page Count Estimated Page Count: Hundreds Manual Type Type: Factory Official Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Digital Delivery: Instant download after payment Printable: Yes, without restriction Requirements Software Requirement: Adobe PDF Reader 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered General Information: Included Troubleshooting: Included Lubrication: Periodic Lubrication details Maintenance: Comprehensive Maintenance procedures Tune Up: Detailed Tune-up procedures Engine: Complete engine overhaul and repair Clutch: Clutch assembly and service Primary Drive: Primary drive system service and repair Transmission: Transmission system overhaul and repair Kickstarter: Kickstarter mechanism service and repair Fuel System: Fuel system components and service Exhaust Systems: Exhaust system maintenance and repair Electrical System: Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair Front Suspension: Front suspension assembly and service Steering: Steering system components and service Rear Suspension: Rear suspension assembly and service Brakes: Brake system maintenance and repair Wiring Diagrams: Detailed wiring diagrams included Procedures Included Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions based on complete disassembly Diagnostic Procedures: Combined troubleshooting and electrical service procedures Assembly Disassembly: Detailed guide for complete disassembly and reassembly Index: Included for easy navigation Technical Depth Depth: Professional quality, in-depth service and repair User Target: Do-it-yourselfer and experienced mechanic Illustrations Illustration Quality: Hundreds of photos and illustrations Illustration Detail: Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guide each procedure Inset Illustrations: Enlarged insets to examine parts in detail Guidance Features Instruction Format: Numbered instructions, detailed substeps Critical Information: Notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter Illustration Matching: Bold figure numbers to match illustrations with instructions Navigation Table Of Contents: Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Compatibility: All PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac Print Quality Print Capability: Print entire manual or select pages Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: Shovelhead Engine Configuration: Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin Displacement: 1340 cc (82 cubic inches) Bore X Stroke: 3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm) Compression Ratio: Varies by specific model and tune, typically 7.0:1 to 8.0:1 Performance Horsepower Estimate: Approx. 65-70 HP (actual figures vary significantly based on tune) Torque Estimate: Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs (actual figures vary significantly based on tune) Fuel System Carburetor: Typically Keihin Butterfly or Linkert (depending on specific FLH sub-model), potentially S&S Super E/G for aftermarket upgrades Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended) Ignition System Ignition Type: Battery and Coil with Breaker Points (standard for 1981), Electronic Ignition often an aftermarket upgrade Lubrication Oil Type: API SG or SH rated, straight-weight or multi-grade 20W-50 motorcycle oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Oil) Oil Capacity: Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed constant mesh Features Drive System: Belt drive primary, chain drive secondary Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid: Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 gear oil Fluid Capacity Capacity: Approx. 1 pint (0.5 liters) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 63.4 inches (1610 mm) Weights Dry Weight: Approx. 660 lbs (300 kg) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Typically no factory-installed infotainment system; owners often add aftermarket stereo systems. Driver Assistance Features: No electronic driver assistance features as per the era of its production. Connectivity Features: No factory connectivity features; communication typically through rider's personal devices. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first Primary Chain Tension Check: Every 2,500 miles Spark Plug Replacement: Every 5,000-10,000 miles (depending on type) Fluid Specifications Fork Oil Type: 30W or 40W motorcycle fork oil (specific grade depends on preference and fork condition) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (check master cylinder for specific requirement) Known Issues Common Wear Items: Valve guides, lifter blocks, primary chain tensioner, crankshaft seals, starter clutch Electrical Quirks: Aging wiring harnesses, ignition system reliability (especially points) Engine Vibrations: Shovelhead engines are known for inherent vibration; proper balancing and maintenance are key. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Origin: Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA Model Evolution Shovelhead Era: Produced from 1966 to 1984, successor to the Panhead, precursor to the Evolution (Evo) engine. Production Model Year Significance: 1981 marked a transition period for Harley-Davidson with significant chassis and engine updates in the years prior. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Historical Significance: The Shovelhead engine is an iconic piece of...