This past July I got my hands on a 1982 Harley-Davidson FLHS. My buddy, Rusty the Painter had it. He and I did some horse-trading and it was mine.
I took the old girl over to my friend Jay’s shop. He owns Hollywood’s Cycles in McAdenville, NC. Brad is the wrench there and Jay runs the front end. I have known Jay for a number of years. At one time we worked together, and I have also worked with Brad. They are good people. I took the Shovel to Jay because there’s not enough room in my garage, and another reason is I know Jay keeps his bikes tight and clean, the way I like mine. Jay also knew I would be a picky customer??? Did I say picky or pricky??
The first thing I found wrong was the starter drive gear had took a dump. It stuck and drained the battery, so now the battery is a new Harley-Davidson unit. I decided to replace the entire charging system and upgrade it with A Spyke 32-amp system. The next order of business was the wiring, behind the headlight it looked as though someone filled it with spaghetti, WIRES everywhere! We decided a new wiring job was in order.
I went with new brake rotors front and rear. I could have salvaged the front one, but I remembered the thing about doing it right! The old girl is getting new 12-inch ape-hangers with new GMA hand controls. These are some very cool controls, I went with the polished version, I almost went with black but black has become too mainstream these days in my opinion.
She is going to get all new shifter parts. The old ones had way too much slop for me. A new dash, new dash panel, new skid plate, new mirrors, new rear fender struts, and new chain guard will be added.
The engine and tranny are strong. The engine has 1000 miles on a new rebuild. She came with a new S&S E carb. The engine covers will sport new chrome hardware.
Speaking of the engine covers I have been thinking about using Russell Mitchell’s scotch brite technique for a smooth satin look? Still up in the air on this. I am off work on Thursdays and I head over to Hollywood’s to get my hands dirty on the old girl. The frame is in good shape but needs to be freshened up some.
Right now my exhaust runs stock style header pipes into what I call a trumpet style megaphone. I may end up adding a fishtail in place of it? Still thinking on that one?
I have had it running and to hear that old Shovelhead thumping does my heart good! I always thought a shovel was the best sounding Harley, just my opinion.
Almost forgot to mention the paint. It is nice, painted by RUSTY, black and gold.
Until next time, RIDE!
–STEALTH
