Harley Davidson is one of the most iconic motorcycle brands in history. Despite having a long and interesting history, the company has gone through a lot of changes over the years. The 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is one of the most coveted models in the lineup. It’s a classic and has a unique wiring diagram that’s worth exploring. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH wiring diagram.
What is a Wiring Diagram?
A wiring diagram is a detailed diagram that illustrates the electrical connections between various components in a system. In the case of a motorcycle, a wiring diagram shows the electrical connections between the battery, ignition system, lights, and other electrical components. Understanding the wiring diagram is essential if you want to troubleshoot any electrical problems or make any modifications to your motorcycle.
The Wiring Diagram for the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH
The 1980 Harley Davidson FLH wiring diagram is unique to this model. It has a lot of electrical components that are not found on other Harley motorcycles. This is because the FLH was designed as a touring bike and has a lot of accessories like luggage racks, fairings, and extra lights. The unique wiring diagram for the FLH makes it easy to identify which wires go where and how they connect to each other.
The Battery
The battery on the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is located underneath the seat. It’s a 12-volt battery that powers all of the electrical components on the motorcycle. The battery connects to the starter solenoid, which then connects to the starter motor. The negative battery cable connects to the frame of the motorcycle. The positive battery cable connects to the main fuse, which then connects to the ignition switch and the headlight switch.
Table 1: Battery Connections
| Battery Cable | Connection |
|---|---|
| Negative | Connects to the frame |
| Positive | Connects to the main fuse, ignition switch, and headlight switch |
The Ignition System
The ignition system on the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is a traditional points and condenser system. The ignition switch connects to the points, which then connect to the coils. The coils are located under the seat and are connected to the spark plugs. The ignition system also connects to the kill switch, which is located on the right-hand handlebar.
Table 2: Ignition System Connections
| Component | Connection |
|---|---|
| Ignition Switch | Connects to points |
| Points | Connect to coils |
| Coils | Connect to spark plugs |
| Kill Switch | Connects to ignition system |
The Lights
The lights on the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH are connected to the headlight switch, which is located on the left-hand handlebar. The headlight switch connects to the main fuse, which then connects to the taillight, brake light, and turn signals. The FLH also has an extra set of lights located on the front and rear of the saddlebags. These lights are connected to the accessory switch, which is located on the dash panel.
Table 3: Light Connections
| Component | Connection |
|---|---|
| Headlight Switch | Connects to main fuse |
| Main Fuse | Connects to taillight, brake light, and turn signals |
| Accessory Switch | Connects to extra lights on saddlebags |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the FLH and other Harley models?
The FLH is a touring bike that’s designed for long rides. It has a lot of accessories that are not found on other Harley models like luggage racks, fairings, and extra lights. The FLH is also a heavier motorcycle than other Harley models.
Why is the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH wiring diagram unique?
The 1980 Harley Davidson FLH wiring diagram is unique because it has a lot of electrical components that are not found on other Harley motorcycles. The unique wiring diagram makes it easy to identify which wires go where and how they connect to each other.
How do I troubleshoot electrical problems on my 1980 Harley Davidson FLH?
The first step to troubleshooting electrical problems on your 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is to understand the wiring diagram. Once you understand how the electrical components are connected, you can use a multimeter to test each component and identify any issues. It’s also important to check the battery and the connections to make sure they are clean and tight.
Can I make modifications to the electrical system on my 1980 Harley Davidson FLH?
Yes, you can make modifications to the electrical system on your 1980 Harley Davidson FLH. However, it’s important to understand the wiring diagram and how the components are connected before making any modifications. It’s also important to use high-quality components and to make sure all connections are clean and secure.
Is it difficult to work on the electrical system on my 1980 Harley Davidson FLH?
Working on the electrical system on your 1980 Harley Davidson FLH can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with electrical systems. However, with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done. It’s important to take your time, follow the wiring diagram, and be patient.
Can I use the same wiring diagram for other Harley motorcycles?
No, the wiring diagram for the 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is unique to this model. Other Harley motorcycles have different wiring diagrams and electrical components.
Conclusion
The 1980 Harley Davidson FLH is a classic motorcycle that’s coveted by many collectors. Understanding the wiring diagram is essential if you want to troubleshoot any electrical problems or make any modifications to your motorcycle. The unique wiring diagram for the FLH makes it easy to identify which wires go where and how they connect to each other. With the right tools and knowledge, working on the electrical system on your 1980 Harley Davidson FLH can be done.
