Category:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance guidance for the 1997-1998 Harley-Davidson FXSTC Softail Custom.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data and procedures that are critical for maintaining the performance, reliability, and longevity of this specific Harley-Davidson model, often exceeding the scope of basic owner's manuals.
Diagnostic Capability:
Extensive troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts are a core strength of this manual.
Visual Aids:
Expected to contain detailed diagrams, illustrations, and photographs to aid in repair procedures.
Technical Accuracy:
Developed by automotive professionals, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer specifications for the period.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Harley-Davidson FXSTC Softail Custom.
Key Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Electrical System, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Chassis, Bodywork.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for this era of Harley-Davidson service manuals).
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, overhaul of cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV type) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, troubleshooting, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump operation.
Ignition System:
Ignition module, coils, spark plugs, timing procedures, troubleshooting ignition faults.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery maintenance, switches, sensors, fault diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, primary drive, transmission (gearbox) disassembly and assembly, final drive (belt drive) inspection and maintenance.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, servicing, oil changes, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, swingarm and pivot bearing service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures, brake pad replacement, rotor inspection.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing service, alignment checks.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat removal and installation, handlebars, controls, exhaust system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter service, spark plug replacement, drive belt tension adjustment, brake checks, tire pressure checks, battery checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, electrical, and braking issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine rebuilds, transmission servicing, fork overhauls, brake caliper rebuilding, and other major component repairs.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle and mixture adjustments, clutch cable adjustment, primary chain tension adjustment, brake lever adjustments.
Depth:
Detailed technical information covering complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems. Suitable for experienced mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Evolution (Evo) Big Twin
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod OHV
Displacement:
1337 cc (81.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for this era)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (estimated, official Harley figures vary by year/tune)
Torque:
Approximately 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (estimated)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motor Oil SAE 20W50 or equivalent API SF or SG rated oil.
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change
Length:
Approximately 91.5 inches (2324 mm)
Width:
Approximately 34.5 inches (876 mm)
Height:
Approximately 47.5 inches (1207 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 594 lbs (270 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 633 lbs (287 kg)
Front Tire Size:
MT90B16 (Dunlop D402 or equivalent)
Rear Tire Size:
130/90B16 (Dunlop D402 or equivalent)
Wheel Type:
Spoked or cast aluminum wheels
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Hub-mounted wheels)
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for motorcycles.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front and rear disc brakes.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, stop light, turn signals, and marker lights.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame provides robust structural integrity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Tension Check:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) for tension and wear.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Fork Oil or equivalent SAE 15W fork oil.
Fork Oil Capacity:
Approximately 11.0 fl oz (325 ml) per fork leg (check manual for exact specification).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch friction plates, drive belt, brake pads, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, and fork seals are common wear items requiring periodic inspection and replacement.
Engine Reliability:
The Evolution engine is generally robust but can experience issues like cam bearing wear, oil leaks, and carburetor performance degradation if not properly maintained.
Electrical Quirks:
Older electrical systems may exhibit intermittent issues with switches, grounds, or charging systems due to age and vibration; thorough diagnosis is key.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Softail Platform:
The Softail line, introduced in 1983, features a hidden rear suspension system that mimics the appearance of a vintage hardtail frame.
Fxstc Heritage:
The FXSTC (Softail Custom) typically represents a more stylized and often custom-oriented version of the Softail platform, often featuring custom paint, chrome accents, and specific seating configurations.
Production Period:
1997-1998 production for this specific manual covers the later years of the Evolution engine era before the Twin Cam introduction.
