Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Standard owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, and professional service technicians.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, authoritative information to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2004 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Standard, enabling cost savings and ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Manual Competitiveness:
This workshop manual offers a level of detail typically found in official manufacturer service manuals, providing a critical resource for owners and independent shops that may not have access to dealership-specific service information.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of the vehicle's service and repair needs, from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Clarity:
Utilizes clear language, detailed diagrams, and step-by-step instructions for ease of understanding and execution.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, internal components (pistons, rings, valves, camshafts), lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specific), fuel injection/carburetion, ignition system, exhaust system, engine tuning.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch operation and adjustment, transmission overhaul (gearbox), primary drive, secondary drive (belt drive inspection and replacement), final drive.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorbers), steering system, braking system (front and rear brakes, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers), wheel bearings, swingarm.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system (headlight, tail light, turn signals), battery system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), ignition module, sensors, instrumentation, horn.
Bodywork And Accessories:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank service, seat removal, handlebar and control adjustments, fairing/body panel removal and installation (if applicable), electrical component access.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, belt tension adjustment, battery care.
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission gear replacement, suspension fork seal replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, fuel system cleaning and repair.
Troubleshooting Guidelines:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification, step-by-step troubleshooting for various systems.
Technical Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, engine timing data, part numbers for common consumables.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine management, electrical faults, and mechanical issues.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components like the engine and transmission.
Customization And Modification Guidance:
While primarily a service manual, it often includes specifications relevant to stock configurations, which is the foundation for any modification.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88B
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 3.97 in (95.25 mm x 100.8 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1 (Typical for Twin Cam 88)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (at rear wheel, varies with tuning and exhaust)
Torque:
Approximately 75-80 ft-lbs (at rear wheel, varies with tuning and exhaust)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Keihin CV Carburetor) or Fuel Injection (EFI - Electronic Fuel Injection) depending on specific sub-model or market configuration.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 or higher recommended.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil, or equivalent SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher motorcycle oil.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for initial break-in service (oil change, filter change, inspection).
Regular Maintenance:
Recommended every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for oil changes, inspections, and fluid checks. More detailed services at 10,000 and 20,000-mile intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher motorcycle oil.
Primary Chaincase Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson Formula Plus Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 gear oil.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Primary chain tensioner wear (especially early Twin Cam models), clutch hub nut loosening, regulator/rectifier failure, wheel bearing wear.
Vibration Characteristics:
Twin Cam 88B engines feature a counterbalancer to reduce vibration compared to earlier Twin Cam 88 models without the 'B' designation, but some characteristic V-twin vibration is inherent.
Belt Drive Maintenance:
Regular inspection of belt condition and proper tension adjustment is crucial to prevent premature wear or failure of the belt and pulleys.
Brand Origins:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, known for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in the early 1980s, is characterized by its hidden rear suspension, mimicking the appearance of a hardtail frame while providing modern comfort and rideability. The FXST Softail Standard represents a foundational model within this popular cruiser family.
Model Production Period:
The Softail Standard (FXST) has been produced with various engine configurations and minor design updates over many years, with the Twin Cam 88 engine being a significant iteration.
Model Recognition:
The Softail line, including the FXST Standard, is consistently recognized for its classic styling, comfortable ride, and the iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin experience, making it a perennial favorite in the cruiser market.
Owner Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson generally receives high owner satisfaction ratings for its brand loyalty and the emotional connection riders have with their motorcycles.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured to Harley-Davidson's rigorous internal quality and safety standards.
