I can't seem to get a straight answer as to whether this is an ironhead or a shovelhead.

So I figured that I would take it to the experts.

All I know is that this is a 1982 Harley. The shop that has it doesn't know for sure what it is but the general consensus is a shovel. Your input is appreciated.

The other question is that they are asking 3k. Is this a worthwhile buy. I have yet to get up there to see it run but they say it runs strong.

 

This is the other pic I have of the bike

 

The '82 Sportsters have the 61CI (1000CC) Ironhead engine.

Harley never offered the Shovelhead engine in a Sportster, as it was only used in the Big Twins, had the engine seperate from the tranny, etc.

(Below is a picture of my '81 Dyna that has the Shovelhead engine, kicker, etc..)

 

TY for the response. So should I just stay away from the bike then?? I have been warned to not touch the ironhead by several different wrentch's that i trust.......

 

You can get a newer pre owned bike for a little more. It will be more reliable and you will probably enjoy it more.

 

I had an 82 that I (and many others) called a Shovel Sporty. It's not a true Shovel but the Rocker covers looked like those on a Shovel, hence the term "shovel Sporty" I'm sure I'll get some heat for saying that!

 

btw-Mine required A LOT of tinkering and after I replaced the Top End at 18K it became a MAJOR Pain in the ***.
Get an EVO!

 

Ironhead's aren't that reliable (if ur a wrench u may love it) but some (like me) just love their look and feel. you might be able to get away with 2500 cuz the economy being bad. There's a couple of craigslist i know of in my area that have been SITTING and ppl willing to let go for so low.

 

Yep, you'll get heat. Here's some right here: A Sportster Ironhead is an Ironhead. It is never a Shovel, never has been a Shovel, and except to those who need teaching, never will be a Shovel.

Actually, the Shovel rockers look like Ironhead rocker covers, as the Sportster has used those same style rocker covers since its debut in 1957. The Shovel rocker cover was based on the Sportster's.

 

Another way to tell is the Shovels have crossed pushrods where the ironheads are not cross and are paraell. I have never be into Ironheads, but Shovels are Bad azz. IMO they are still the best looking, best sounding HD motor eve made. Pick up a J&P catalog, most times shovels are on the cover.