I read through this thread first before adding my 2¢.
My first shovel, a 1979 74” FXEF I put well over 40,000 on it and modded quite a bit to improve ride ability on modern highways and a bit more power. That old bike is no match for what my ‘76 FXE is.
My current shovel build: 84” S&S balanced assembly, 450 S cam, .20 over forged S&S pistons, S&S Super E carb. Dyna 2000i ignition…stock brakes, oiling - lots of obvious original bits.
Had this built for durability AND more power. Keeping my expectations real I was Not out to prove anything to Evo’s - Twinkies or whatever.
The seat of the pants dyno says I’ve got over 70hp and at least 80-84 lb-ft torque. This started as a tired 1978 1/2 80” in a 1976 FXE. The gearing is stock and the trans is an FLH ratchet top. It’s not an interstate highway cruiser, but is a FUN backroads blaster.
The torque is endless pulling from 1500-4500 rpm. By shifting 3000-3500 rpm I’ve got all I need for big grins and squirting along. Shifting with all that torque means I don’t have to see much more than 2000 rpm to scoot away smoothly. Friends who followed me on twinkies said “I thought you were taking it easy on that old…” Funny thing is I was being easy, it just runs so well that quickly getting up to the posted speed + is damn entertaining. S&S did post power numbers for this build - somewhere - I’m definitely “there”.
This 84” shovel is way smoother than my 74”, rides and handles better - but it was completely torn down and rebuilt with care. In every way it delivers what I was out for. There are no glitches in the power delivery - linear - hard pulling.
The cons if any are I spent enough money doing the entire bike to buy a brand new entry level big twin. I kinda figured I’d be at that going in. If you are just rebuilding the engine your costs will be reasonable and the improvements should bring a big smile when you twist the throttle.
I’ve now got 2600 miles on this and no regrets.
S&S makes proven combos for the shovel.
Ride safe! Stopping by the Barkhamstead reservoir for a nice pic.
That’s a really nice bike that any Shovelhead lover would be proud to own and ride. I’m very glad you’re so satisfied with it. That’s what it’s all about. Great pic’s. Love the original bits like the front fender and gas tank.. But don’t ever put it on a dyno.
Two wheels down, enjoy the wind.
Last edited by Rains2much; 09-03-2024 at 01:21 PM.
My First impression is...What Exactly do you expect to Gain...especially with a Shovelhead.. No Matter what Anyone Says..Money spent on Performance for a Shovelhead, is Much better spent on an Evo..best Cost/Reward ratio out there...Still. Back in the '80's...yea..Not many Options for Performance, except to get a Sportster.. Flame On!!!!
but, but, but if you build an Evo you don't have a shovelhead.
09-03-2024, 01:19 PM
