Positioning:
Targeted at owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed information to maintain and repair the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883C Sportster 883 Custom.
Competition:
Competes with official Harley-Davidson service manuals and other reputable aftermarket repair guides, offering a comprehensive alternative.
Features:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting tips, specifications, covering all major systems.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, and repair for the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883C Sportster 883 Custom
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for this type of manual)
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely printed manual or Digital PDF
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications for the Evolution V-Twin engine.
Transmission:
Service, repair, and troubleshooting of the 5-speed transmission.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (CV) service, adjustments, and troubleshooting; fuel injection system (if applicable for specific model variant, though 883 Custom typically carbureted).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, lighting, battery, starter, charging system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic service, pad replacement, caliper maintenance.
Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber maintenance and replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fender maintenance, seat service.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire replacement, balancing.
Exhaust System:
Muffler and pipe inspection, replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable), general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Digital Format:
PDF (if digital), searchable text, high-resolution images.
Print Quality:
High-quality printing, clear diagrams and text (if printed).
Binding:
Perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use on a workbench (typical for service manuals).
Paper Type:
Durable, coated paper stock to withstand workshop environments (typical for service manuals).
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
883cc (53.9 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.00 in. x 3.8125 in. (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 53 HP @ 5000 RPM (typical for 883cc Evolution)
Torque Estimated:
Approximately 65 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (typical for 883cc Evolution)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Capacity:
3.1 gallons (11.7 L)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W50 (Harley-Davidson recommends their own or equivalent)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Harley-Davidson 63796-77A (check for exact 2008 spec)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/57 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/65 ratio
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent SAE 50/60W gear oil)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
20 oz (0.6 L) for transmission, 24 oz (0.7 L) for primary (check manual for separation)
Length:
90.2 in. (2291 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
26.0 in. (660 mm)
Ground Clearance:
4.3 in. (109 mm)
Dry Weight Estimated:
Approximately 505 lbs (229 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Not typically specified in the same way as cars; check manual for load capacity.
Front Tire Size:
MT90B16 72H
Rear Tire Size:
150/80B16 77H
Wheel Type:
Chrome laced or cast aluminum (Custom typically offered both)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as cars. Safety is dependent on rider skill and adherence to maintenance.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc front and rear. Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, tail/stop light, front and rear turn signals, neutral indicator, oil pressure warning, tachometer (if equipped), speedometer.
Infotainment System:
Base model typically does not feature an infotainment system beyond basic gauges. Later models or accessories may include audio systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
None typically standard on this model year and configuration. Focus is on mechanical and rider control.
Connectivity Features:
No standard connectivity features. Aftermarket options may exist for charging or GPS mounting.
Initial Service:
First service typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for oil change, filter, and inspection.
Subsequent Oil Changes:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or as needed.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect for wear and proper tension every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 20W50 Harley-Davidson or equivalent.
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent SAE 50/60W gear oil.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, drive belt, brake pads, fork seals, wheel bearings, primary chain tensioner (on earlier models).
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor can require adjustments for altitude or temperature changes; jetting may be adjusted for performance upgrades.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running models, known for its sporty character and V-twin engine.
Xl 883C Custom:
The 'C' designation signifies the Custom model, typically featuring more chrome, a lower seat height, and sometimes different styling elements than the base XL 883.
Production Period:
Sportsters have been in continuous production since 1957. The 883cc engine configuration has been a staple for decades.
