Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Positioning:
Iconic American cruiser, known for its distinctive styling and comfortable ride
Competitors 2003:
Other Harley-Davidson models, Indian Motorcycles, certain American V-twin cruisers from Japanese manufacturers
Styling:
Wide front tire, teardrop fuel tank, chrome accents, distinctive Fat Boy silhouette
Engine:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B engine, offering robust torque and classic V-twin sound
Ride Comfort:
Softail rear suspension system designed to mimic the look of a hardtail while providing ride comfort
Primary Coverage:
Complete factory service and repair for 2003 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy ST
Secondary Coverage:
Includes specific components and systems relevant to the FLSTF Fat Boy ST model variant
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, indicative of comprehensive coverage)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Purpose:
Diagnostic, repair, maintenance, and overhaul
Engine:
Twin Cam 88B V-Twin, carburetion, ignition, lubrication, cooling (air)
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh, clutch, primary drive, final drive belt
Chassis:
Frame, front fork (Telescopic), rear suspension (Swingarm with dual shock absorbers), steering
Brakes:
Front disc brake, rear disc brake, hydraulic system
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system, lighting, starter, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, side covers, chrome components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacement, lubrication, tire pressure
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era)
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission disassembly/assembly, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, suspension service
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, adjustment procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, component identification, diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88
Engine Configuration:
45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for TC88B)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 HP (estimated, not officially published by Harley-Davidson for this era)
Torque:
Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motor Oil SAE 20W50 or equivalent API CG-4 rated oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Type:
5-speed constant mesh, sequential manual gearbox
Drive System:
Primary chain drive, secondary belt drive
Transmission Options:
None (standard 5-speed for this model)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson® Genuine Formula Plus (or Syn3) or Formula SAE 75W90 Synthetic Transmission Lubricant
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 US fluid ounces (0.71 L)
Length:
Approx. 93.9 inches (2385 mm)
Width:
Approx. 39.0 inches (990 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 49.5 inches (1257 mm) at windshield (if equipped)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.7 inches (1618 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Seat Height Unladen:
Approx. 26.1 inches (663 mm)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 liters)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 668 lbs (303 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1060 lbs (481 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 392 lbs (178 kg)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically assigned NHTSA safety ratings in the same way as cars. Safety relies on rider skill and equipment.
Brakes:
Dual disc front brake, single disc rear brake with hydraulic actuation
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, designed for stability and rider support
Tire Design:
Wide front tire (130/90-16) for stability and distinctive Fat Boy look
Audio System:
Typically no integrated infotainment system on this model; aftermarket options are common.
Display:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure light, neutral indicator.
ABS:
ABS was not a standard or commonly available option on the 2003 FLSTF Fat Boy.
Cruise Control:
Not standard; typically an aftermarket accessory.
Connectivity Features:
None from the factory.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Subsequent Services:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Major Maintenance Items:
Primary chain adjustment, belt tension check, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, fork oil change
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motor Oil SAE 20W50 (or equivalent)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula Plus or Formula SAE 75W90 Synthetic Transmission Lubricant
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chain Case Lubricant or Formula SAE 75W90 Synthetic Transmission Lubricant
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 compatible hydraulic fluid
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Factory Fork Oil (e.g., Type E or equivalent viscosity, typically around 10W)
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Early TC88 models (pre-2007) had hydraulic tensioners that could wear out and cause noise or damage. Manual recommends inspection and potential replacement with upgraded components.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetor can sometimes require fine-tuning for optimal performance, especially after modifications or altitude changes.
Belt Tension:
Proper final drive belt tension is crucial for longevity; incorrect tension can lead to premature wear.
Oil Leaks:
Common for older Harley-Davidsons to develop minor oil leaks from gaskets or seals; manual will cover seal replacement procedures.
Brand Reputation:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, synonymous with freedom and individuality
Fat Boy Introduction:
Introduced in 1990, the Fat Boy quickly became one of Harley-Davidson's most popular models
2003 Fat Boy:
Represents the evolution of the original Fat Boy design, incorporating the Twin Cam 88 engine and Softail chassis refinements
Manufacturing Location:
USA (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin for various components)
Significance 2003:
Part of the successful Twin Cam era, solidifying Harley-Davidson's market dominance in cruisers