Target Audience:
Owners, enthusiasts, independent repair shops, experienced mechanics seeking detailed factory information for 2012 Harley-Davidson Softail models.
Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle segment, known for style, comfort, and V-twin performance.
Value Proposition:
Provides complete official factory service information, saving money compared to dealership repairs, enabling DIY maintenance and repair, and offering a cost-effective alternative to expensive physical manuals or ongoing dealership service.
Manual Benefits:
Hundreds of pages, detailed illustrations and photos, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, printable format, immediate download access.
Systems:
General Information, Maintenance, Chassis, Fuel System, Cooling System, Engine, Clutch, Engine Lubrication System, Engine Removal/Installation, Drive, Transmission, Wheels/Tires, Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams
Chassis Details:
Frame construction, swingarm, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorbers), steering head bearings, wheel bearings, steering system components.
Fuel System Details:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, throttle body, idle air control, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system.
Engine Details:
Cylinder heads, cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, primary drive, secondary drive (belt), oil pump, oil cooler (if equipped).
Electrical System Details:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), starter system, instrument cluster, switches, sensors, ECM (Engine Control Module), wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Clutch System Details:
Clutch lever, cable adjustment, clutch plates, pressure plate, clutch release mechanism, primary drive chain tension.
Wheels Tires Details:
Wheel types, tire specifications, rim runout, spoke tension (if applicable), tire pressure recommendations, wheel balancing.
Steering System Details:
Handlebars, triple clamps, steering stem, steering head bearings, fork assembly.
Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures, repair procedures, service procedures, troubleshooting, diagnostics (especially electrical), maintenance, component replacement, adjustments
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step guidance for transmission inspection, repair, and adjustment, including gear inspection, bearing replacement, and seal replacement.
Brake Service:
Procedures for brake fluid replacement, caliper service, brake pad replacement, rotor inspection, and troubleshooting brake system issues.
Suspension Adjustment:
Instructions for fork oil changes, fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, and suspension setup.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter testing, and common problem resolution techniques.
Engine Mounting:
Procedures for engine removal from the frame and installation, including mounting bolt torque specifications and alignment checks.
Drive System Service:
Belt inspection, tension adjustment, replacement procedures, and pulley alignment.
Depth:
Comprehensive (suitable for do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics), step-by-step instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, for engine oil. Check manual for specific intervals for transmission and primary chain case oil.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Typically every 2 years or as per manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies, but often around 10,000-20,000 miles. Consult manual for specific interval and plug type (e.g., Harley-Davidson Performance Spark Plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic, or other specified SAE 20W50 motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent.
Primary Chain Case Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific Harley-Davidson branded fluid recommendations).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, primary drive chain and tensioner, fuel line connectors, wheel bearings, and potential leaks from engine or transmission seals. Electrical diagnostics can be complex and are well-covered in the manual.