🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXDL Low Rider

Year:

2004

Platform:

Dyna

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Harley-Davidson FXDL Low Rider Dyna represented a quintessential American cruiser, blending classic styling with modern V-twin performance. Targeted at riders seeking a comfortable, stylish, and capable motorcycle for both touring and everyday riding.

Competitors:

Competed with models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles, and custom builders, as well as other Harley-Davidson models like the Sportster and Softail lines.

Features:

Low seat height, comfortable riding position, classic styling cues, the iconic Harley-Davidson 1450cc V-twin engine, and the distinctive Dyna chassis.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Service and Workshop Repair

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 700-800 (typical for this era's comprehensive manuals)

Type:

Service Manual / Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

1450cc (88 cubic inch) Evolution V-Twin engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, component replacement

Transmission:

5-speed Cruise Drive transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, clutch service

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, alignment, fork service, steering head bearing replacement, swingarm and rear shock absorber maintenance

Suspension:

Front telescopic forks (including damping adjustment, seal replacement), rear shock absorbers (preload adjustment, replacement)

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic), caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, fluid flush and bleeding

Electrical System:

Ignition system (points, timing, coil), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Keihin CV) service, jetting, float adjustment, fuel tank maintenance, fuel lines, petcock

Exhaust System:

Exhaust header pipe inspection, muffler replacement, gasket replacement

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, spoke tensioning (if applicable)

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender removal/installation, fuel tank removal/installation, seat service, console and fairing component maintenance

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment/lubrication, brake fluid replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and chassis issues

Overhaul And Rebuild:

Complete engine, transmission, and brake caliper overhaul procedures with detailed steps and torque specifications

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing key components like starter, alternator, regulator, ignition module, etc.

Adjustments:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing adjustments, clutch adjustment, suspension settings

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams with component identification, testing procedures for circuits, sensors, and actuators

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and specialized procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages

Printability:

Designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual for workshop use

Binding Recommendation:

Digital PDF, recommended for local printing and binding into a workshop manual

Paper Recommendation:

Standard copier paper for printing, heavier stock for section dividers if professionally bound

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution

Displacement:

1449 cc (88.7 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in. x 4.49 in. (88.9 mm x 114.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

Overhead valves (OHV), two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated

Horsepower Est:

Approximately 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, depending on exhaust and tuning)

Torque Est:

Approximately 75-80 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, depending on exhaust and tuning)

Carburetor:

Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm

Fuel Capacity:

4.5 gallons (17 L)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (95 RON) recommended

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh, helical gears

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, 1.407:1 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 3.15:1 ratio

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson® Formula™ SYN3™ or other API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

91.0 in. (2311 mm)

Overall Width:

35.5 in. (902 mm)

Overall Height:

47.8 in. (1214 mm)

Wheelbase:

63.7 in. (1618 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.7 in. (119 mm)

Seat Height Laden:

26.7 in. (678 mm)

Dry Weight:

615 lbs (279 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

1000 lbs (454 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

4.5 gal (17 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles. Safety is primarily addressed through design and rider skill.

Braking:

Dual-piston caliper front and rear disc brakes, providing effective stopping power.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals for visibility.

Frame Construction:

Steel, double-cradle frame designed for stability and rider confidence.

Ergonomics:

Low seat height and forward-mounted foot controls contribute to a stable and accessible riding posture.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory base models typically did not include integrated audio systems. Aftermarket options were common.

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure light, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator, battery voltage indicator.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard or commonly available on the 2004 FXDL Low Rider. Manual would detail non-ABS braking systems.

Usb Or Bluetooth:

Not applicable for the 2004 model year. Connectivity features were not integrated.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

First service typically at 1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months.

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months. Check level more frequently.

Transmission Oil Change:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.

Primary Chaincase Oil Change:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA rated motorcycle oil)

Primary Chaincase Lubricant:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine Formula™ +™ Primary Chain Lubricant (or SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil, or Harley-Davidson® SYN3™)

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine Formula™ SYN3™ or other API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid

Fork Oil:

Harley-Davidson® Type "E" (or equivalent Harley-Davidson® premium synthethic fork oil, or SAE 10W fork oil)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, exhaust gaskets, drive belt wear.

Engine Considerations:

Evolution engines are generally robust, but proper maintenance is key. Carburetor tuning can be critical for smooth operation. Some models experienced oil leaks if seals were not properly maintained.

Electrical Potential Issues:

Aging wiring harnesses, faulty regulator/rectifiers, and starter solenoids can be potential points of failure, though less common on this model year compared to earlier ones.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts over a century of motorcycle manufacturing, synonymous with American freedom and rugged individuality.

Dyna Line:

The Dyna platform, introduced in 1991, offered a more modern chassis and engine mounting compared to earlier Big Twin models, bridging the gap between the rigid Sportster and the Softail's hidden rear suspension.

Low Rider Concept:

The Low Rider designation, first appearing in 1977, historically signified a motorcycle with a lower seat height and often different handlebar configurations for a more relaxed riding position.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (e.g., York, Pennsylvania or Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Specific Awards:

While specific awards for the 2004 FXDL Low Rider are not readily cataloged, the Dyna platform and the Evolution engine have consistently been recognized for their iconic status and contribution to the cruiser motorcycle segment.

Customer Satisfaction:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly the Dyna models of this era, generally receive high marks for rider satisfaction due to their distinctive character, performance, and aftermarket support.