Category:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for the 2004 Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster Custom.
Positioning:
The XL1200C Sportster Custom represents Harley-Davidson's classic cruiser offering, known for its iconic styling, V-twin rumble, and customizability. This manual is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity.
Vehicle Focus:
Emphasis on the Sportster platform's blend of classic Harley-Davidson heritage with modern touring and custom capabilities for its era.
Value Proposition:
Provides the same official, in-depth information used by Harley-Davidson dealerships, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs confidently and correctly.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing, valve train, cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system (air).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel filter, emissions control.
Ignition System:
Ignition module, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, gauges, switches, relays, fuses, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, primary drive, transmission case, gear sets, shift mechanism, final belt drive, belt tension.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, brake discs, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic, cartridge type), rear shock absorbers, fork oil change, fork seal replacement, rear suspension adjustment.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire selection and installation, tube vs. tubeless considerations, spoke tension (if applicable).
Steering Frame:
Headset bearings, steering stem, frame components, triple clamps.
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, electrical panel access, cosmetic component removal and installation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, chain/belt adjustment, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, electrical, and brake issues.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Identification of fault codes (if applicable for the era), symptom-based diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for both independent technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and critical assembly procedures.
Engine Name:
Evolution V-twin (1200cc)
Displacement:
1200 cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in. x 3.81 in. (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 60-65 HP (as per typical 1200 Evolution engines of this era, official figures may vary)
Torque Est:
Approx. 68-72 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (as per typical 1200 Evolution engines of this era, official figures may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin CV 40mm Carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 89 octane (Octane Rating is typically RON+MON/2, check manual for specific Harley recommendation)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) - Verify with manual for exact capacity
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil (or equivalent API CG-4 or higher SAE 20W50)
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Type:
5-speed Constant Mesh
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.315, 2nd: 6.723, 3rd: 4.704, 4th: 3.704, 5th: 3.225 (Typical values for this transmission, confirm with manual)
Primary Drive:
45-tooth, 2.06:1 ratio, enclosed in primary chaincase
Final Drive:
32-tooth, 3.00:1 ratio, belt drive
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (check manual for exact specification)
Crash Test Rating:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not undergo standardized crash testing like automobiles; focus is on operational safety features.)
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper with 292mm disc, dual-piston rear caliper with 292mm disc.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail/stop light, incandescent front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Mild steel, high-tensile strength tubing, cradle frame.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (includes oil change, primary chain inspection, etc.)
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months for regular maintenance (oil, filter, lubrication, inspection). Refer to manual for detailed schedule.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil SAE 20W50 (or equivalent)
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (Harley-Davidson Brake Fluid recommended)
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Type E Fork Oil (or equivalent SAE 10W, verify viscosity with manual)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, exhaust gaskets, drive belt wear.
Electrical Components:
Potential issues with voltage regulators and stators on earlier Evolution models, though improvements were made over the years. Always verify with manual diagnostics.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and idle stability, especially with altitude or temperature changes.
Brand Founding:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Sportster Legacy:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model line, evolving from a lightweight sport bike to the iconic cruiser it is today.
Xl Platform:
The XL1200C Sportster Custom variant introduced significant custom styling cues, often including a larger front wheel (e.g., 19-inch) and a distinctive fuel tank.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (for 2004 models)