![]() While the compression ratio remained largely unchanged, advancements in engine design allowed the Shovelhead to maintain its status as a reliable and strong-performing motorcycle engine. However, this ratio varied slightly with different models and throughout the years. The Shovelhead engine typically had a compression ratio of around 8:1. Performance improvements were made possible by continuous engine refinements throughout its 18-year production run. Early versions, such as the 1966 FLH, produced 60 horsepower, while later versions, like the 1984 FXWG, generated up to 65 horsepower. The horsepower output of the Shovelhead differed across the years and models. Its chamber shape is more squared-off, providing a better air-fuel mixture burn, resulting in more efficient power generation and improved overall performance. The Shovelhead’s combustion chamber design was an evolution from the preceding Panhead engine. In 1978, Harley-Davidson introduced an 80 cubic inch (1340cc) variant to increase performance capabilities. The Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine is a member of the Big Twin family, featuring a displacement of 74 cubic inches (1200cc) in its original version. Shovelhead Engine Specifications and Performance Twin Cam: Two separate camshafts, improved power, and torque Shovelhead: Redesigned Panhead, old coal shovel shaped rocker coversĮvolution: Aluminum heads and cylinder for higher compression ratio Panhead: Improved oiling, hydraulic valve lifters Knucklehead: Overhead valve V-twin, distinct rocker covers The Twin Cam engine has since undergone several updates, including the Twin Cam 88, Twin Cam 96, and Twin Cam 103. This offered improved power, torque, and a smoother ride. In 1999, Harley Davidson introduced the Twin Cam engine, which replaced the single camshaft of engines. Harley Davidson’s motorcycles finally began to regain their reputation for reliability and performance with the introduction of the Evo engine. This new engine featured an aluminum block and cylinder heads, as well as a higher compression ratio. The Shovelhead engine was replaced by the Evolution engine in 1984. During this era of the company’s history, Harley Davidson underwent significant changes in ownership, including a merger with American Machine and Foundry (AMF) in 1969. Harley Davidson launched the Shovelhead engine in 1966, as a redesign of its predecessor. ![]() ![]() The Knucklehead was succeeded by the Panhead engine in 1948, marked by improved oil circulation and hydraulic valve lifters. This overhead valve V-twin engine featured distinctive rocker covers, which resembled knuckles, giving it its name. Harley Davidson introduced the Knucklehead engine in 1936 as an update on the side valve flathead engine, marking the beginning of an important era in the company’s history. The AMF Harley era ran from 1969 to 1981 – 3 years after the Shovelhead release and ended 3 years before its replacement.ġ978 Harley Shovelhead with the new larger 80 cubic inch (1340cc) Knucklehead and Panhead Era The Shovelhead engine’s cause isn’t helped as it coincided with the AMF takeover. ![]() Today, the Shovelhead has a strong following with several owner and fan clubs but the general consensus among the majority of Harley fans was that the engine and several of the motorcycles it was used in lacked the quality the company had previously been known for. It was the engine that bridged the gap between the Panhead and Evolution engines. The Shovelhead held a prominent place in Harley-Davidson’s lineup for nearly two decades. Harley-Davidson focused on innovation, continued to refine the engine while retaining the classic design and sound riders loved. These improvements ranged from increased cubic inches to the addition of electronic ignition systems. Production of the Shovelhead ran from 1966 to 1984, and during this time, the engine underwent several upgrades. Taking its name from the rocker covers looking like a coal shovel flipped upside down, the Shovelhead succeeded the iconic Panhead engine and was ultimately the last of the FL series engines.Īlthough plagued with problems, its distinctive look and improved power output meant Harley sales got a much needed 26% increase. The Harley Shovelhead engine made its debut in 1966. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |