Positioning:
The 2008 Harley-Davidson Softail represents a classic American cruiser, balancing traditional styling with modern engineering. This manual serves owners and independent mechanics who prefer to maintain and repair their own motorcycles.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement cruiser motorcycles from brands like Indian Motorcycle and select models from Japanese manufacturers offering a similar aesthetic and riding experience.
Vehicle Features:
Iconic Softail chassis design with hidden rear suspension, powerful V-twin engine, comfortable riding ergonomics, customization potential.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, Service, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Secondary Coverage:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Identification, Torque Specifications
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emissions control
Transmission:
Gearbox removal, disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, clutch operation, primary drive
Drivetrain:
Final drive belt inspection and adjustment, rear pulley and sprocket inspection
Chassis:
Frame inspection, suspension (front fork and rear shock absorbers) service and adjustment, steering system
Brakes:
Brake system bleeding, pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinder service, hydraulic lines
Electrical:
Starting system, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), battery service, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, body control module (BCM), accessory circuits, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump, fuel injectors (EFI models), carburetor service (if applicable)
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, handlebars, controls
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt adjustment, brake fluid flush, tire inspection and pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues, fault code interpretation (for EFI models)
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all covered systems
Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic flows, component testing procedures
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and rebuilds.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, ensuring crisp text and clear diagrams. Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for easy referencing during workshop use.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF - instant download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF - instant download)
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod-actuated OHV, 4 valves per cylinder (2 per head)
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Torque:
Approx. 92.5 ft-lbs (125.4 Nm) @ 3500 RPM (varies slightly by model/tuning)
Horsepower:
Approx. 75 HP (varies by model/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with oxygen sensors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Ignition System:
Electronic, spark advanced
Oil Capacity:
3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W50) or equivalent API CI-4 rated synthetic motorcycle oil
Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 1.400:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon fiber belt, 32/46 ratio (2.75:1)
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.946, 4th: 3.830, 5th: 3.150, 6th: 2.670
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 weight API GL-4 rated gear oil)
Fluid Capacity:
1 quart (0.946 liters)
Length:
Approx. 93.5 in. (2375 mm)
Width:
Approx. 35.5 in. (902 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48.7 in. (1237 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 in. (1638 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.5 in. (114 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 673 lbs (305 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 U.S. gallons (18.9 liters)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by NCAP or NHTSA in the same way as cars. Safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices.)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Dual 4-piston calipers front, single 2-piston caliper rear.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, LED brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame.
Suspension:
Telescopic front forks, rear swingarm with dual coil-over shock absorbers.
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems available, not standard on all trims. Basic electrical for accessory integration.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on 2008 Softail models, not standard.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic port (DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Codes) for electronic fuel injection (EFI) models, allowing for readouts via dealer tools or compatible aftermarket devices.
Initial Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for basic service. More detailed inspections are recommended at 10,000-mile intervals.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or as per manual recommendation with SYN3 or approved oil.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or as per manual recommendation.
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (SAE 50)
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W50) or equivalent API CI-4 synthetic motorcycle oil
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific approval, typically HD or a high-quality automotive grade)
Common Issues:
Potential for oil leaks from primary or transmission seals, clutch cable adjustment needs, some electrical connector corrosion (especially on older models/exposed areas), fuel tank expansion on certain paints.
Tire Wear:
Rear tire wear can be accelerated with aggressive riding; drive belt requires regular tension checks.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson Part Number 63796-77A (or equivalent aftermarket)
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1984, is characterized by its hardtail-like appearance achieved through a hidden rear suspension system. The 2008 model year features the Twin Cam 96 engine, a significant upgrade in displacement and performance from earlier models.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (various Harley-Davidson plants)
