🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Softail

Year:

2006, 2007

Platform Code:

2006-2007 Softail models

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, and professional motorcycle technicians.

Value Proposition:

Provides authorized-level repair and maintenance information, enabling significant cost savings compared to dealership service. Essential for owners who perform their own maintenance.

Comprehensiveness:

Covers all aspects of motorcycle service and repair, ensuring accuracy and completeness for a wide range of tasks.

Official Guidance:

Based on factory service procedures, ensuring correct methods and specifications are followed for optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 800-1000 (typical for this era and model range, exact count varies by specific edition)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Twin Cam 88B and Twin Cam 96B V-Twin engines, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and diagnosis.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (EFI) system, including sensors, actuators, fuel pump, injectors, and diagnostic procedures. Carbureted models may have separate sections or be covered if applicable to specific sub-models.

Transmission:

5-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, primary drive, gear inspection, lubrication, and repair procedures.

Electrical System:

Ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, instrumentation, and accessory wiring. Includes wiring diagrams.

Brakes:

Hydraulic disc brake systems (front and rear), including caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures. ABS system diagnostics if applicable.

Suspension:

Front fork (including cartridge types) and rear shock absorber service, inspection, fluid replacement, and spring adjustments. Wheel bearing service.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat service, fuel tank mounting, and fairing/saddlebag components.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel removal, installation, spoke tensioning (if applicable), tire mounting and balancing, and recommended tire pressures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement, and mounting hardware.

Cooling System:

Engine oil cooling system, including oil filter replacement and oil level checks.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, battery checks, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common electrical, engine, and mechanical issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components and systems.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine control modules (ECM), sensors, and actuators. Use of Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician) may be referenced.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, timing procedures, and other critical technical data.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Geared towards professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, typically allowing for clear printing. May include searchable text depending on the source.

Recommendation:

Printable on demand for workshop use. May include diagrams and illustrations suitable for printing.

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Twin Cam

Engine Variants:

Twin Cam 88B (96 cu. in./1584cc), Twin Cam 96B (102 cu. in./1670cc) for some 2007 models.

Configuration:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin

Bore Stroke:

Twin Cam 88B: 3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm); Twin Cam 96B: 3.75 in. x 4.50 in. (95.25 mm x 114.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 9.2:1 for Twin Cam 88B, 9.0:1 for Twin Cam 96B

Valve Train:

Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 60-70 HP (Varies by specific model and tune)

Torque:

Approx. 85-95 lb-ft (Varies by specific model and tune)

Injection Type:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) is standard. Some earlier or special edition models might have carburetion.

Fuel Requirement:

87-91 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition with knock sensor

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission, constant mesh

Type:

Not applicable for standard Softail models of this era.

Primary Drive:

Primary chain drive with compensating sprocket and clutch.

Final Drive:

Belt drive

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends their own SYN3 transmission lubricant or equivalent Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula Plus.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 64.5 - 65.5 inches (1638 - 1664 mm), depending on specific Softail model (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage Softail Classic).

Length:

Approx. 90-95 inches (2286-2413 mm)

Seat Height:

Approx. 26-27 inches (660-686 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg), depending on specific model.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1160 lbs (526 kg)

Cargo Capacity:

Primarily dependent on accessory saddlebags and luggage racks.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Motorcycle crash testing data is not standardized in the same way as automobiles. Focus is on handling and braking performance.

Braking:

Dual-piston front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional or standard feature on certain 2006/2007 Softail models (e.g., FLHTCI, FLHTCUI, etc., though these are touring models. Softail ABS availability might be model-specific).

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED tail/brake lamp, front and rear turn signals.

Instrumentation:

Speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel gauge, oil pressure indicator, engine diagnostics indicator (CEL).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM radio with CD player or CB/intercom systems were available on some touring-oriented Softail models or as accessories. Base models typically lacked integrated infotainment.

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on certain models or trims, enhancing braking safety.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-II compliant diagnostic connector (for Harley-Davidson's proprietary diagnostic tools) allowing for data reading and system adjustments.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Specific interval depends on oil type and riding conditions.

Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:

Inspect every 5,000 - 10,000 miles, as automatic tensioners can wear out.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 10,000 - 15,000 miles.

Brake Fluid:

Flush and replace every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (SAE 20W-50) is recommended. Equivalent high-quality motorcycle-specific synthetic oil can be used.

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or Formula Plus (SAE 50W) is recommended. Some owners use dedicated transmission fluids like Red Line ShockProof Gear Oil.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent primary lubricant (typically 20W-50 motorcycle oil or a specific primary lubricant).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Brake Fluid

Fork Oil:

Harley-Davidson Type E (5W) or Type B (10W) fork oil, or equivalent. Specific weight depends on model and preference.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.8 US quarts (2.6 L)

Primary Chain Case Capacity:

Approx. 1.1 US quarts (1.0 L)

Primary Chain Tensioner:

The automatic primary chain tensioner (plastic shoe) is known to wear out, leading to chain slap and potential damage if not replaced. Upgraded hydraulic tensioners are a common aftermarket solution.

Cam Chain Tensioners:

Older Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) used cam chain tensioners that could wear. While the 2006/2007 models might have improved versions, inspection is still recommended. Later models used a single hydraulic tensioner.

Crank Position Sensor:

Failure of the crank position sensor can cause starting issues or the engine to stall.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

Some early EFI systems experienced issues with fuel pump reliability, though improvements were made over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding Year:

1903

Motorcycle Icon:

Harley-Davidson is synonymous with American cruiser motorcycles, known for their V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and rich cultural heritage.

Softail Introduction:

The Softail platform was introduced in 1983, featuring a hidden rear suspension designed to mimic the look of a rigid frame while providing rider comfort. The styling and engineering have evolved significantly over the years.

2006 2007 Era:

This period saw the transition and widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 88B and the introduction of the larger Twin Cam 96B engine, representing a significant upgrade in performance and refinement.

Manufacturing Location:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Milwaukee, Wisconsin; York, Pennsylvania).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Acclaim:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles consistently receive acclaim for their iconic styling, V-twin sound, and heritage, appealing to a loyal customer base.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high customer satisfaction ratings among owners, particularly for styling and ownership experience, though mechanical reliability can vary.

Technical Accuracy:

This manual aims to adhere to the technical standards and procedures set by Harley-Davidson, providing certified accuracy for repair work.