Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Brand Philosophy:
Harley-Davidson is known for its heritage, V-twin engines, and customization culture.
Competitors 2015:
Indian Chief, Triumph Bonneville, Kawasaki Vulcan, Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star.
Model Attributes:
Classic styling, V-twin engine, accessible ergonomics, strong customization potential.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform all levels of maintenance and repair, saving time and money.
Engine System:
Engine overhaul, tuning, troubleshooting, cooling system, lubrication system, internal components (pistons, cylinders, crankshaft, camshafts, valves), engine mounting.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).
Ignition System:
Ignition module, spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring, troubleshooting ignition faults.
Transmission System:
Clutch operation and adjustment, transmission gear inspection and replacement, shift linkage, primary drive, final drive (belt).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting (headlight, taillight, signals), instrumentation, horn, accessory circuits, fuses and relays, diagnostic codes (DTCs).
Brake System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement and bleeding, brake pad replacement, brake disc inspection, ABS system (if equipped).
Suspension System:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring replacement), rear shock absorber service and adjustment, suspension linkage.
Wheel And Tire System:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure checks and recommendations, wheel removal and installation, spoke adjustment (if applicable).
Body And Frame:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, fuel tank mounting, handlebars, controls.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine (description of airflow management and cooling fins).
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, primary chaincase, brake fluid), filter replacements (oil, air), lubrication points, safety checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, identification of common problems, fault finding based on symptoms, use of diagnostic tools and scanners.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, component inspection, part replacement, and reassembly for all major systems.
Performance Tuning:
Engine tuning procedures, fuel mapping adjustments (if applicable via specific tools), exhaust system modifications.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, component testing (sensors, actuators), battery and charging system diagnosis.
Special Tools:
Listing and instructions for using Harley-Davidson specific tools and specialized equipment for repairs and diagnostics.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system analysis.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting trees for all electronic control modules (ECM).
Rebuild Instructions:
Includes detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, with torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Twin Cam 103B
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.375 in. (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 75-80 HP (claimed, at crankshaft)
Torque Estimate:
Approximately 98-100 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (claimed, at crankshaft)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
91 octane or higher recommended
Valve Train:
Overhead valve, pushrod-activated, two valves per cylinder
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Primary Chaincase Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 48 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km), clean or replace as needed.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic, or an equivalent API SG, J-SPEC, or JASO FD certified oil.
Primary Chaincase Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (SAE 50 equivalent) or an equivalent primary lubricant.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (SAE 50 equivalent) or an equivalent transmission lubricant.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 recommended.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch friction plates, brake pads, tires, drive belt, fork seals.
Twin Cam Specifics:
Potential for oil pressure issues, primary chain tensioner wear (especially with earlier Twin Cam models, less common on 103B with hydraulic tensioner), cam bearing wear.
Belt Tension:
Correct rear belt tension is critical for longevity; requires specific measurement tools and procedures.
Heritage Focus:
Long-standing tradition of V-twin engine development and iconic American motorcycle design.
Softail Introduction:
Softail chassis concept introduced in the early 1980s, featuring a hidden rear suspension system for a hardtail look.
Twin Cam Era:
The 2015 model features the Twin Cam 103 engine, a significant evolution from earlier Evolution Big Twin engines, offering increased displacement and performance.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (typically Milwaukee, Wisconsin or York, Pennsylvania)
Production Status:
The Softail platform has continued to evolve with newer engine technologies (Milwaukee-Eight) and chassis designs, but the 2015 Twin Cam models remain iconic.
