Harley-Davidson Shovelhead & Panhead (1948-1984) Common Torque Specs Cheat Sheet

Transmission & Primary Drive

• Transmission Sprocket Nut (Left-hand thread) → 140-150 ft-lbs (190-203 Nm)

• Clutch Hub Nut (Left-hand thread) → 50-60 ft-lbs (68-81 Nm)

• Primary Chain Adjuster Bolt → 20-25 ft-lbs (27-34 Nm)

• Starter Bendix Nut → 50-60 ft-lbs (68-81 Nm)

• Inner Primary to Engine & Transmission → 20-25 ft-lbs (27-34 Nm)

Engine & Crankshaft

• Motor Sprocket Nut  → 150-165 ft-lbs (203-224 Nm) for 1970-71 models, 400 ft-lbs (542 Nm) for 1972+ models

• Crankcase Bolts → 25-30 ft-lbs (34-41 Nm)

• Cylinder Base Nuts → 38-42 ft-lbs (52-57 Nm)

• Head Bolts (Shovelhead & Panhead) → 60-65 ft-lbs (81-88 Nm)

• Rocker Box Bolts → 20-25 ft-lbs (27-34 Nm)

Wheels & Brakes

• Axle Nuts (Front & Rear) → 50-60 ft-lbs (68-81 Nm)

• Front Brake Caliper Bolts → 30-34 ft-lbs (41-46 Nm) for FL models, 115-120 in-lbs (13-14 Nm) for FX models

• Rear Brake Caliper Bolts → 35-40 ft-lbs (47-54 Nm)

• Brake Rotor Bolts → 21-27 ft-lbs (28-37 Nm) (1972-73 models require 35 ft-lbs)

Chassis & Suspension

• Swingarm Pivot Bolt → 50-55 ft-lbs (68-75 Nm)

• Triple Tree Stem Nut → 75-80 ft-lbs (102-108 Nm)

• Fork Tube Cap Nuts → 40-50 ft-lbs (54-68 Nm)

• Handlebar Riser Clamps → 20-25 ft-lbs (27-34 Nm) for FL models, 55-70 ft-lbs (75-95 Nm) for FX models

Miscellaneous

• Spark Plugs → 18-22 ft-lbs (24-30 Nm) for aluminum heads, 30-35 ft-lbs (41-47 Nm) for iron heads

• Oil Drain Plug → 14-20 ft-lbs (19-27 Nm)

• Primary Cover Screws → 7-9 ft-lbs (9-12 Nm)

Note: Always confirm torque values with your service manual based on your bike’s year and model.