Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson Dyna series represented a significant segment of the cruiser market, offering a blend of classic styling, V-twin performance, and customizability.
Competitors:
Competed with other American V-twin cruisers (e.g., Indian) and some Japanese V-twin offerings, appealing to riders seeking authentic American motorcycle experience.
Vehicle Appeal:
Robust Evolution engine, distinctive Dyna frame geometry offering good handling for its class, customizable platform, strong community support.
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair these iconic motorcycles, maximizing lifespan and performance.
Applicable Years:
1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Specific Models Covered:
FXD, FXDWG (Wide Glide), FXDL (Low Rider)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF recommended)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), fuel system, ignition system, emission controls.
Transmission:
Primary drive, clutch, transmission case, gear inspection, lubrication, troubleshooting, repair procedures.
Drivetrain:
Belt drive system (rear), final drive belt inspection and replacement, primary chain adjustment (if applicable).
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, bearings, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic disc), caliper overhaul, master cylinder replacement, fluid bleeding, pad replacement, rotor inspection.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if equipped), cleaning, adjustment, troubleshooting.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, mounting, gasket replacement, emissions components.
Bodywork Fittings:
Frame, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, mounting hardware, trim.
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, lubrication, filter changes, fluid changes, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components.
Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit analysis, error code interpretation (if applicable).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics with component identification and circuit tracing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution (V-twin) pushrod OHV
Displacement:
Typically 1339.8 cc (81.9 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 4.250 in (88.8 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.5:1 to 9.1:1 (varies slightly by model year/variant)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves, pushrod actuated, two valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
60-70 HP (approximate, at crankshaft, varies by tune and specific model)
Torque Est:
70-80 ft-lbs (approximate, at crankshaft, varies by tune and specific model)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor, typically 40mm
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline, 87-91 octane
Oil System:
Dry sump with remote oil filter (some models)
Oil Capacity:
3.0-3.5 US quarts (2.8-3.3 liters) with filter change (refer to specific manual for exact capacity)
Oil Type Spec:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 or equivalent high-quality motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Wheelbase Est:
63.5 - 64.5 inches (1613 - 1638 mm) (varies by model, e.g., FXDWG is longer)
Seat Height Est:
25 - 27 inches (635 - 686 mm) (unladen, varies by model)
Dry Weight Est:
570 - 610 lbs (259 - 277 kg) (varies by model)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
950 - 1000 lbs (431 - 454 kg) (approximate)
Fuel Capacity:
4.2 US gallons (15.9 liters) typically
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is largely dependent on rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices. No formal crash test ratings as with automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual disc front, single disc rear (hydraulic caliper) with upgraded options often available.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, cradle-type frame providing rigidity.
Audio System:
Optional factory-installed or aftermarket audio systems may be present, typically with AM/FM radio and cassette player in this era. Modern units often have Bluetooth and iPod integration.
Rider Aids:
Limited electronic rider aids in this era. Primarily relies on mechanical systems and rider input.
Smartphone Integration:
No factory-integrated smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions exist for Bluetooth communication and audio.
Dashboard Features:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (often optional or integrated into speedo housing), fuel gauge, indicator lights (oil pressure, turn signals, high beam).
First Service:
Typically 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil change, filter change, primary chain adjustment, and general inspection.
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km)
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 2,500 miles (4,000 km), check tension per manual.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 or SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil meeting H-D specifications.
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Lubricant or SAE 50 motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid or SAE 80W-90 gear oil meeting H-D specifications.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fork seals, wheel bearings, drive belt (wear and tension), intake manifold seals (carburetor), exhaust gaskets.
Electrical Potential Issues:
Stator failures, regulator/rectifier issues, battery drain, connector corrosion (common in older bikes).
Engine Performance Quirks:
Carburetor tuning sensitivity, potential for oil leaks from primary and engine cases, cam bearing wear on higher mileage engines.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson has a rich heritage dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycling culture and V-twin engines.
Dyna Introduction:
The Dyna platform was introduced in 1991, offering a new chassis design with rubber-mounted engines for improved vibration isolation compared to earlier FXRs.
Engine Evolution:
The Evolution engine (known as the 'Blockhead') was introduced in 1984 and became the standard for Harley-Davidson's big twins, including the Dyna models from 1991 onwards.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Production Era:
The Dyna line continued production for many years after 1998, with updates and variations.