How to check the timing on a 1978 Shovelhead?
I want to check the timing on my 1978 shovel (FXE)… without using a timing light. Can anyone point me in the direction of the best directions to do this? The front cylinder advance mark is a vertical line and the front TDC mark is a shallow drilled hole just less than 1/8″ diameter.
How did the Shovelhead engine get its name?
The name shovel comes from the coal shovel-like shape of the engine covers. When the timing is not correct, the engine can fail. Timing refers to the amount of time that occurs between the spark plug sparking and the fuel in the engine igniting. A timing mark view plug tests engine timing.
What’s the best way to time a Shovelhead?
Aim the timing light at the inspection hole. Rotate the sensor assembly with the screwdriver so that you can see the front cylinder advance timing mark. Center the mark in the timing inspection hole. Tighten the timer plate studs. Reinstall the gasket, inner cover, inner cover screws and timer cover. Install the new outer cover rivets.
How do you rotate a Harley Davidson shovelhead?
You can use the kick starter to rotate the engine or you can use the rear wheel. It helps to remove the spark plugs. Remember that though the crankshaft rotates in the same direction as the wheels, the point cam rotates counter clockwise. Did you find the recommended reading relevant to this discussion?
I want to check the timing on my 1978 shovel (FXE)… without using a timing light. Can anyone point me in the direction of the best directions to do this? The front cylinder advance mark is a vertical line and the front TDC mark is a shallow drilled hole just less than 1/8″ diameter.
When did the Harley Davidson shovelhead engine come out?
The term “Shovelhead” refers to a Harley-Davidson Big-Twin engine that was produced from circa 1966 to 1984. The first generation Shovelhead from 1966 through 1969 was actually the same engine as the Panhead engine that it replaced, except for the updated cylinder heads.
Aim the timing light at the inspection hole. Rotate the sensor assembly with the screwdriver so that you can see the front cylinder advance timing mark. Center the mark in the timing inspection hole. Tighten the timer plate studs. Reinstall the gasket, inner cover, inner cover screws and timer cover. Install the new outer cover rivets.
You can use the kick starter to rotate the engine or you can use the rear wheel. It helps to remove the spark plugs. Remember that though the crankshaft rotates in the same direction as the wheels, the point cam rotates counter clockwise. Did you find the recommended reading relevant to this discussion?