Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail owners, independent repair shops, custom builders
Value Proposition:
Essential for maintaining and repairing a 2006 Softail, saving on dealership service costs, and enabling advanced customization.
Manual Content:
Covers all Softail models for the specific year, offering a singular resource for a diverse range of bikes within the platform.
Visual Aid:
Emphasis on illustrations and diagrams ('look at the pictures') for ease of understanding, even for those less experienced with technical manuals.
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, troubleshooting, diagnostics, performance tuning
Transmission:
Service, repair, adjustment, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Belt drive, primary drive, rear drive maintenance and repair
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition, lighting, charging systems
Fuel System:
Carburetor/EFI troubleshooting, fuel pump, lines, tank service
Braking System:
Hydraulic system maintenance, pad replacement, bleeding, component repair
Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock adjustment and replacement
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, specifications
Frame And Bodywork:
Component removal and installation, chassis inspection
Controls:
Throttle, clutch, brake lever service and adjustment
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Diagnostics:
Engine fault finding, electrical system troubleshooting using schematics
Rebuilds:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, part numbers
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B / 96 (depending on specific Softail model variant for 2006)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, V-twin, pushrod actuated, overhead valves
Displacement:
Typically 1450cc (88 cubic inches) for most 2006 Softails, with potential for 1584cc (96 cubic inches) in later 2006 models or specific variants.
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (varies slightly by model and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 85-90 ft-lbs (varies slightly by model and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) or Carbureted (CV Carburetor for many models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RVP 8.5 or less recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition, single fire
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh, left-foot shift
Optional Transmission:
N/A (5-speed was standard across the Softail line)
Clutch Type:
Multi-plate, wet clutch, cable-actuated
Primary Drive:
Primary chain drive in a wet clutch primary chaincase
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, Drive Train Oil (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 24-26 US fluid ounces (0.71-0.77 liters)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 - 66.5 inches (1638 - 1689 mm), varies by specific Softail model (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage Softail Classic, Night Train)
Seat Height:
Approx. 25.6 - 27.1 inches (650 - 688 mm), laden, varies by model
Dry Weight:
Approx. 600 - 670 lbs (272 - 304 kg), varies significantly by model
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1000-1100 lbs (454-499 kg)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS in the same way as cars)
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear
ABS:
Optional on some models, not standard across the entire Softail line for 2006
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, incandescent turn signals
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems were available, often integrated into fairings or handlebars, typically AM/FM radio and CD player.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on select Softail models.
Diagnostic Tools:
The manual will cover diagnostics using Harley-Davidson's Digital Technician (Digitech) tools, including interpreting DTC codes.
Initial Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) - includes oil change, primary chaincase inspection, general inspection.
Subsequent Service:
Generally every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Includes oil changes, filter replacement, drive belt check, brake fluid check, and lubrication.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Full Synthetic) or other API CI-4 rated 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch and brakes)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Cam Chain Tensioner Wear:
Early Twin Cam models (pre-2007) can experience wear on the hydraulic cam chain tensioners, requiring inspection and potential replacement with updated components.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
Primary chain requires periodic adjustment to maintain proper tension.
Regulator Rectifier Failure:
While less common on 2006 models than earlier years, regulator/rectifier failure can lead to charging system issues.
Brand Origin:
Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA in 1903, a cornerstone of American motorcycle culture.
Softail Concept:
The Softail design features a hidden rear suspension system to mimic the rigid frame look of classic motorcycles while providing rider comfort.
Twin Cam Introduction:
The Twin Cam engine platform was introduced in 1999, becoming the primary engine for Harley-Davidson's large displacement motorcycles, including the Softail line.
Production Era 2006:
The 2006 model year represented a mature stage of the Twin Cam Softail platform, with various iterations like the Heritage Softail, Fat Boy, Night Train, and Deuce.
