Intro to Shovelhead Maintenance

Mike Roen has his old Shovelhead on the table lift and is preparing to demonstrate his routine for a thorough service. This motorcycle is an excellent example of how fine tuned and dependable an older Harley Davidson can be when it is well taken care of.

Other than routine maintenance, Mike has made a number of repairs and upgrades during his 24 years of ownership. This includes a transmission overhaul, an updated clutch basket and hub roller bearing assembly, an electronic ignition, and the stock hydraulic tappet units were removed and replaced with the S&S solid lifter conversion.

It is usually a good idea to start a service with some basic safety checks. Verify that all of the motorcycle’s electrical components are fully functional. This should include: Neutral indicator, oil indicator, front and rear brake light function, tail light function, low beam, high beam, and high beam indicator, left & right side turn signals and turn signal indicators.

Change motor oil and filter.

Change transmission and primary oils. Remove and inspect spark plugs. Gap and install new spark plugs.

When performing even a very basic service, always inspect everything you possibly can as you move along.

Tires, brake pads and brake rotors should always be scrutinized over.

Check your air filter and clean or replace as needed. Inspect fuel hoses. Inspect oil lines. Inspect your belt and pulleys. Inspect motor mounts or motor mounting points. Check clutch and throttle cable adjustment. Inspect for any possible leaks.

“Put a wrench” on anything you can reach to verify fastener tightness.

Check jiffy stand hardware, handlebar riser bolts, handlebar riser top clamp hardware, motor mount hardware, axle nuts, fuel tank hardware, exhaust mounting hardware.

Refer to your factory service manual for the suggested manufacturer maintenance schedule for your specific year and model.

Following this schedule will help you keep your Harley running strong for years to come.