Harley Shovelhead for Sale—Buyer's Guide Part 1

You have been tempted with the “Harley Shovelhead for Sale” ads. Here’s what you should know before you go to check it out.

Harley-Davidson Shovelhead model motorcycles were produced between the years 1966 to 1984. These were some rocky years for the historic American company, but they never stopped producing motorcycles. Early Shovelhead motors, from 1966 to 1969, were produced with a Panhead bottom end and a Shovelhead top end. These models & motors are highly sought after and difficult to find. The motors were 74 cubic inch (1200cc) until 1978, when the motors were bumped up to 80 cubic inch through the changing of bore and stroke.

If looking at “Shovelhead for sale” ads, a rider will quickly realize that these old American motorcycles can be found in every type of condition—from original and meticulously maintained to mostly original and not maintaine, and from radically customized by a professional to completely hacked up by a backyard mechanic.

In this video, Mike gives us a thorough checklist of what to look for and what to avoid when browsing those “Shovelhead for sale” ads.

– Shovelhead Motor: Visually inspect for any major leaks or exterior damage like broken head or cylinder fins. Ask for any possible history/repair history on the motor. Try to verify if the motor is original to the motorcycle. Inspect exhaust bolt allocation at both heads for possible damage or repair. Inspect spark plug allocations. Try to determine if the oil pump has been replaced or upgraded.

– Transmission: Look for any larger-than-typical leaks. Try to shift through all four gears and neutral, even if the motorcycle is not running. Inspect condition of gear shift assembly.

– Primary drive: Visually inspect for excessive leaking. Ask for the history of clutch assembly. If the motorcycle runs, test the clutch for proper engagement and disengagement. Make sure the clutch does not shutter or drag.

– Carburetor: Determine if the carburetor is original or upgraded. Inspect the intake seals and bands.

– Exhaust: Inspect exhaust condition. Look for signs of excessive exhaust leaks.

– Front end: Visually inspect for possible fork seal leaks. Turn from side to side to feel neck bearings.

– Fuel tanks: Inspect the internal condition and mounting points of the left & right side tanks. Also inspect the petcock for condition and quality.

– Shocks: Inspect the condition of shocks. Determine age of shocks.

– Wheels: Try to determine if rims are original, Harley-Davidson rims, or aftermarket. If rims are spoked, check spoke condition both visually and by feel. Inspect tire age and conditions.

– Brakes: Inspect front & rear master cylinders, brake line conditions, and calipers. Inspect front and rear rotors and brake pads.

– Electrical: If the motorcycle can be powered, inspect handlebar switch assemblies and harness. Inspect all electrical functions & lights. Inspect indicator lights. Determine if the motorcycle has points or electronic ignition. Inspect the stator plug. Try to determine if the motorcycle has a 22 amp charging system or if it has been upgraded to 32 amp. If possible, test the charging system.

– Battery: Inspect the battery/battery cable conditions, battery box, and rubber mounts.

– Chain: Inspect chain type and chain condition.

– Oil tank: Inspect oil tank mounting points and rubber mounts.

Check out Part 2 of Shovelhead for Sale—Buyers Guide.

More Buyers Guides:
M8
Twin Cam
Sporster
Evolution
Panhead
Knucklehead
Harley Shovelhead for Sale – Buyers Guide Part 2