🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXSTB Night Train

Year:

2004

Platform:

Softail

Chassis Code:

FXSTB

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The FXSTB Night Train was a premium custom cruiser in Harley-Davidson's Softail lineup, known for its low-slung profile, blacked-out styling, and performance-oriented Twin Cam 88B engine. Targeted at riders seeking a stylish, powerful, and distinctive cruiser.

Competitors:

Competed with other large-displacement cruiser motorcycles from manufacturers like Indian, Victory, Honda (V-twin models), Yamaha (V-twin models), and Suzuki (V-twin models).

Styling:

Aggressive, low-slung profile, drag-style handlebars, forward controls, blacked-out components, distinctive tank styling.

Engine:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B V-twin engine, noted for its counter-balancer system which provides a smoother ride compared to the traditional rigid-mount Big Twin engines.

Platform:

Softail chassis, designed to mimic the look of a rigid frame with hidden rear suspension, offering a classic hardtail appearance with modern ride comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Overhaul:

Complete

Transmission Repair:

Complete

Electrical Systems:

Complete

Suspension And Steering:

Complete

Brake System:

Complete

Fuel System:

Complete

Cooling System:

Complete (Air-cooled)

Body And Frame:

Complete

Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostics

Maintenance Procedures:

Detailed

Estimated Pages:

500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, internal components, torque specifications, timing, valve adjustment.

Engine Performance:

Carburetion (CV carburetor), fuel injection (if applicable to specific sub-models, though 2004 FXSTB is typically carb'd), ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Primary drive, clutch, transmission case, gears, shift mechanism, belt drive maintenance.

Electrical And Ignition:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams.

Brakes And Suspension:

Front and rear brake systems (calipers, master cylinders, lines, pads), fork assembly, rear shock absorbers, wheel bearings.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain/belt adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake inspection.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, identification of common problems, specific diagnostic steps for various systems.

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, cleaning, and reassembling major components like the engine, transmission, and brake calipers.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, labeled wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages.

Resolution:

Clear, legible text and images/diagrams.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated, overhead valves.

Engine Family:

Twin Cam 88B

Displacement:

1450cc (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

Cylinder Heads:

Aluminum alloy

Pistons:

Cast aluminum

Camshafts:

Single camshaft operating multiple pushrods

Valve Train:

Pushrod-activated, two valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP (estimated, peak figures vary)

Torque:

Approx. 86 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (estimated, peak figures vary)

Carburetor:

Keihin 40mm CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor

Fuel Delivery:

Gravity feed from fuel tank

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh manual

Clutch:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, 1.46:1 ratio

Final Drive:

Carbon fiber belt, 32/46T (2.00:1 ratio)

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.33:1, 2nd: 6.42:1, 3rd: 4.77:1, 4th: 3.81:1, 5th: 3.17:1

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula Plus (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 90 gear oil)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

20-24 US fl oz (approx.)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

93.5 in. (2375 mm)

Wheelbase:

64.5 in. (1638 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.5 in. (114 mm)

Seat Height:

25.5 in. (648 mm) (unladen)

Handlebars Width:

Approx. 31-33 in. (787-838 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 645 lbs (292.5 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 1070 lbs (485 kg)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

5.0 US gal (18.9 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles of this era are not subject to the same standardized crash test ratings as passenger cars.

Braking System:

Dual-piston caliper front and rear brakes with floating discs.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.

Frame Design:

Steel, rectangular backbone and downtube frame.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional factory or dealer-installed audio systems were available, typically with handlebar-mounted controls. Not standard on all models.

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional on some models, integrated into a single gauge housing), fuel gauge, oil pressure indicator, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, headlamp high-beam indicator.

Assistance Systems:

None (basic rider-focused design).

Connectivity Features:

None (basic motorcycle instrumentation).

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 2,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Primary Chain Tensioner:

Inspect and adjust as needed, typically every 5,000-10,000 miles or as per manual recommendations.

Transmission Oil Change:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or as recommended by fluid degradation.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson Syn3 (20W50) or equivalent API CI-4 (for older spec) or CK-4 (for current spec) synthetic V-twin motorcycle oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 90 gear oil)

Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:

20-24 US fl oz (approx.)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (DOT 5 silicone fluid is NOT compatible).

Primary Chain Tensioner:

Early Twin Cam models (including 2004) used an automatic hydraulic tensioner that could wear out prematurely, leading to noise and potential damage. Upgrade to a later style or aftermarket compensator is common.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

Similar to the primary tensioner, the cam chain tensioner shoes can wear. Inspection and replacement are critical.

Carburetor Tuning:

CV carburetors require periodic tuning and cleaning for optimal performance.

Rear Belt Wear:

Proper alignment and tension are crucial to prevent premature belt wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history in performance, customization, and rider lifestyle. Known for its distinctive V-twin engines and strong brand identity.

Evolution:

The FXSTB Night Train was part of the Softail family, which debuted in 1984. The Night Train variant, introduced in 2000, emphasized a darker, more aggressive aesthetic. The 2004 model year saw the continued use of the Twin Cam 88B engine and refinements to the Softail platform.

Production Years:

FXSTB Night Train: 2000-2009

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the Softail lineup, have consistently received acclaim for their iconic styling, V-twin performance, and cultural impact. Specific awards for the 2004 FXSTB are not typically highlighted in industry awards but it was a strong seller within its segment.