Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FLSTF Softail Fat Boy owners, independent repair shops, and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Key Competitors 2012:
Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin, Triumph Thunderbird.
Model Identity:
Iconic styling, comfortable riding position, powerful Twin Cam engine, and unmistakable Harley-Davidson character.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-authorized information for maintaining and repairing the 2012 FLSTF Softail Fat Boy, empowering owners and technicians.
Engine:
Twin Cam 103ci (1690cc) V-Twin Engine, including lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (EFI), ignition, starting, and charging systems.
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive Transmission, clutch, gearbox, primary drive, and final drive.
Chassis:
Softail frame, swingarm, front and rear suspension (forks, shocks), steering system, and wheels.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic brake systems, including calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, battery, starter, alternator, fuses, relays, ignition switch, security system, and instrument cluster.
Bodywork:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, and accessories.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, belt adjustment, battery maintenance, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault codes, and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Engine management system diagnostics, fuel injection system troubleshooting, ignition system testing, and electrical system analysis.
Scope:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Factory specifications, tolerances, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and text.
Printability:
Printable for physical use in a workshop environment.
Physical Manual Analogue:
N/A (Digital Download)
Physical Manual Analogue:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.375 in. (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm)
Valvetrain:
Pushrod-actuated overhead valves with hydraulic lifters, 2 valves per cylinder.
Horsepower:
Approx. 70-75 HP (Estimate based on model specifications)
Torque:
Approx. 98-100 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (Estimate based on model specifications)
Induction:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gal (18.9 L)
Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive®
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.77, 2nd: 6.15, 3rd: 4.77, 4th: 3.77, 5th: 3.15, 6th: 2.79
Primary Drive:
Inches, enclosed primary drive with three-plate clutch.
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio.
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automotive)
Braking:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models/trims.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, and directional lights.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm designed for stability.
Security:
Factory security system with proximity alarm and immobilizer available on select models.
Audio System:
Optional accessory radio systems available, typically not standard equipment on FLSTF models.
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available.
Smart Device Integration:
No integrated smartphone connectivity. Communication via aftermarket accessories.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter change, primary chaincase inspection, chassis inspection.
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Belt Tension Check:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W50) or equivalent motorcycle-specific synthetic oil meeting Harley-Davidson P/N 62600011 specification. Capacity: 4.0 US qt (3.8 L) with filter.
Primary Chaincase Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (P/N 99851-05) or equivalent. Capacity: 2.75 US qt (2.6 L)
Transmission Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (P/N 99851-05) or equivalent. Capacity: 2.75 US qt (2.6 L)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, wheel bearings, fork seals, drive belt, brake pads.
Potential Electrical:
Wiring harness chafing, starter solenoid issues, battery charging system problems are not uncommon on older models.
Engine Considerations:
While generally robust, the Twin Cam can develop issues with cam chain tensioners (especially on earlier Twin Cams, less so on the 103) and potential oil leaks from gaskets and seals.
Founding:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Legacy:
Renowned for its V-twin engines, cruiser styling, and distinct brand culture.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail chassis concept was introduced in 1983 by Bill Davis, featuring hidden rear shock absorbers to mimic the look of a rigid frame. Harley-Davidson acquired the design in 1987.
Fat Boy Introduction:
The Fat Boy model was introduced in 1990, quickly becoming an icon with its distinctive wide front fork, "fat" tires, and solid aluminum disc wheels.
2012 Updates:
The 2012 model year saw the FLSTF receive the Twin Cam 103 engine as standard, offering increased power and torque over previous iterations. Minor styling and feature updates were also common.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson plants)
