🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXSTC Softail Custom

Year:

2008

Vehicle Type:

Motorcycle

Sub Model:

Softail Custom

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The FXSTC Softail Custom represents Harley-Davidson's offering in the classic cruiser segment, blending iconic styling with modern performance and technology. It appeals to riders seeking a traditional custom look with the reliability and capabilities of a contemporary Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other large-displacement cruisers from manufacturers like Indian Motorcycles and custom-built choppers. Its appeal lies in the Harley-Davidson brand heritage, the Softail platform's distinctive styling, and its extensive customization potential.

Key Features:

Rigid frame look with hidden rear suspension, Twin Cam 96B engine, chrome styling elements, low seat height, classic cruiser ergonomics, ABS optional on some models.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the 2008 Harley-Davidson FXSTC Softail Custom.

Page Count:

Estimated 400-600 pages (typical for this era of service manual).

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Twin Cam 96B), Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Transmission (6-speed Cruise Drive), Clutch, Primary Drive, Final Drive, Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories), Fuel Tank & Lines, Exhaust System, Wheels & Tires, Bodywork, Controls.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, detailed troubleshooting steps, component inspection and testing, disassembly and reassembly procedures, component replacement, wiring diagnostics, torque specifications, fluid capacities, and special tool usage.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance tasks like oil changes and filter replacements to advanced diagnostics, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical system troubleshooting. Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their resolution.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with printable pages. Optimized for digital viewing and printing specific sections.

Print Quality:

Clear, legible text and diagrams, suitable for professional use. Vector-based diagrams where applicable for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96B

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, V-twin, pushrod OHV, 4 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 2 exhaust).

Displacement:

1584 cc (96 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.75 in. x 4.48 in. (95.25 mm x 113.80 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Torque Rating:

Approx. 92.6 ft-lbs (125.5 Nm) at 3,500 RPM (specifications may vary slightly).

Horsepower Rating:

Approx. 70-75 HP (estimated, Harley-Davidson typically quotes torque figures).

Fuel System:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with Automatic Compression Release (ACR) on some models.

Ignition System:

High-performance, electronic ignition with spark advance.

Lubrication System:

Dry-sump, internally oiled.

🔧 Transmission

Primary Drive:

Chain, 34/46 ratio.

Gearbox Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive.

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.420, 3rd: 4.774, 4th: 3.749, 5th: 3.290, 6th: 2.790.

Final Drive:

Belt, 32/65 ratio.

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, 9-plate.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission Oil (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 92.3 in. (2345 mm)

Width:

Approx. 36.4 in. (925 mm) at handlebars.

Height:

Approx. 48.3 in. (1227 mm) at windshield.

Seat Height Laden:

Approx. 26.0 in. (660 mm)

Seat Height Unladen:

Approx. 27.5 in. (699 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 64.5 in. (1638 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 669 lbs (303 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1040 lbs (472 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 US gal. (18.9 L)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US qts. (3.8 L) (with filter change).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles are not typically subject to the same crash test ratings as cars).

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Passive Safety Features:

Halogen headlight, LED tail light, integrated turn signals, robust frame construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic systems, typically no integrated infotainment beyond a speedometer, tachometer, and indicator lights. Audio systems (radio/CD) were often aftermarket accessories for this model.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional ABS. No electronic rider aids like traction control or riding modes typically found on later models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to diagnostic port for service tools. No Bluetooth or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Initial service at 1,000 miles (1,600 km). Subsequent services every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually. Specific intervals for oil changes, transmission/primary fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, and brake fluid are detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W-50 Synthetic) or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.

Primary Chain Case Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission Oil or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check specific caliper recommendations as ABS systems may have specific requirements).

Fork Oil Spec:

Refer to manual for specific weight and capacity (typically a 10W or 15W fork oil).

Oil Filter Part Number:

Harley-Davidson 63796-77B (Chrome) or 63731-99A (Black) are common, but confirm for the specific model.

Common Issues:

Potential issues may include exhaust pipe leaks, clutch cable adjustment, starter solenoid issues, charging system problems (stator/regulator), and occasional fuel injector issues. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and a rich history of performance and cultural influence.

Model Evolution:

The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is characterized by its hidden rear shock absorbers that mimic the look of a rigid hardtail frame. The 'C' designation typically signifies a 'Custom' model, featuring enhanced styling and chrome accents. The FXSTC evolved over the years with engine upgrades, styling tweaks, and feature additions like fuel injection and improved braking systems.

Production Years:

The FXSTC Softail Custom was produced from 1984 to 2010. The 2008 model year is part of the evolution incorporating the Twin Cam engine and updated chassis.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2008 FXSTC are not widely documented, the Softail platform and the Twin Cam engine have consistently received praise for their design, ride quality, and brand appeal within the cruiser motorcycle market.