🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLSTN Softail Deluxe

Year:

2009

Series:

Softail

Oem Manual Title:

2009 Harley-Davidson FLSTN Softail Deluxe Service Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2009 Harley-Davidson FLSTN Softail Deluxe represents Harley-Davidson's classic cruiser styling with modern performance and comfort features. It targets riders seeking iconic American motorcycle aesthetics and a comfortable touring/cruising experience.

Competitors:

Competes with other large-displacement V-twin cruisers from manufacturers like Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles, and select Japanese brands offering similar styling and displacement.

Model Features:

Characteristic Harley-Davidson V-twin engine, nostalgic styling with chrome accents, comfortable riding position, smooth ride provided by the Softail suspension design.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Maintenance, service, and repair for 2009 Harley-Davidson FLSTN Softail Deluxe

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, specifications

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 500-700 pages (typical for Harley-Davidson service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (Paperback) or Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, torque specifications, timing, lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable, though typically air-cooled for this model)

Transmission:

Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, clutch operation and service

Drivetrain:

Belt drive system, final drive maintenance, wheel bearing service

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle body, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank service

Electrical System:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, battery, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes (DTCs)

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber service and adjustment

Steering:

Steering head bearing inspection and adjustment, handlebar service

Bodywork:

Fender removal/installation, fuel tank removal/installation, seat service, fairing/component removal/installation

Wheels And Tires:

Tire pressure, tire wear inspection, wheel removal and installation, wheel balancing

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-ups

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic tools, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Wiring:

Detailed electrical schematic diagrams and troubleshooting by circuit

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine teardown, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings, valves), and reassembly with specified torque values and clearances.

Transmission Rebuild:

Procedures for disassembly and reassembly of the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, including inspection of gears, bearings, and shift components.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component-level repairs, and in-depth troubleshooting. Suitable for experienced home mechanics and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Codes:

Includes a complete listing and interpretation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for all major electronic systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Qualities:

Searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents, high-resolution images (if PDF)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper and printing for durability in workshop environments

Binding:

Professional binding (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound) for lay-flat use

Paper Type:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand shop conditions

Completeness:

Full service manual, providing comprehensive coverage for all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Twin Cam 96B

Displacement:

1584 cc (96 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valve Train:

Pushrod-actuated overhead valves

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

Torque:

92.6 ft. lbs. (125.6 Nm) @ 3500 RPM (approximate, varies slightly by source and testing)

Horsepower:

Not officially quoted by Harley-Davidson, but estimated to be around 70-75 HP

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 minimum recommended

Ignition System:

High-performance, screen-mounted electronic ignition

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Clutch:

Clutched, multi-plate, wet

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.407, 3rd: 4.774, 4th: 3.794, 5th: 3.289, 6th: 2.750 (typical for Twin Cam 96)

Primary Drive:

Chain, 34/46 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt, 32/65 ratio

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent synchromesh transmission fluid

📐 Dimensions

Length:

95.5 in. (2426 mm)

Seat Height Laden:

26.5 in. (673 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.8 in. (122 mm)

Dry Weight:

636 lbs. (288.5 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

1050 lbs. (476.3 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 gal. (18.9 L)

Oil Capacity:

3.0 US qt. (2.8 L) with filter change

Front Tire:

BW 130/90B16 67H

Rear Tire:

BW 150/80B16 71H

Wheel Type:

Laced chrome spokes with chrome rims

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certifications:

Meets applicable US EPA, DOT, and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations.

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Typically dual-piston calipers. ABS was optional on some models/markets for 2009, manual should clarify.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail light, amber front and rear turn signals, auxiliary running lights (often chrome nacelles with integrated turn signals)

Frame Construction:

Steel, mild-section, black, rigid, cross-coupled. Softail frame with hidden rear shock absorbers to mimic a hardtail look.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Stock models typically do not come with an integrated audio system. Aftermarket audio systems are common modifications.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2009 model year. The manual will detail its operation and service if equipped.

Diagnostic Tools:

The manual will cover procedures for utilizing Harley-Davidson's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician) for reading and clearing DTCs.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

Break-in service typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km)

Regular Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (for engine oil)

Transmission Primary Service:

Check fluid level at 5,000 miles (8,000 km) intervals. Service as per manual recommendations, often at longer intervals than engine oil.

Fork Oil Change:

Recommended every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or as needed based on performance.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic or equivalent API SG or higher classification oil.

Primary Chaincase Lubricant:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid (unless ABS equipped, which may have specific requirements).

Fork Oil:

Typically a 10W fork oil, check manual for precise weight and quantity.

Primary Chaincase Capacity:

3.5 US qt. (3.3 L)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, drive belt, tires, wheel bearings.

Engine Specific Considerations:

While the Twin Cam 96B is generally robust, potential issues can include oil pressure sender failures, starter solenoid issues, and occasional charging system problems (stator/regulator). Proper maintenance is key.

Softail Specific Considerations:

Rear shock absorber mounts and bushings can require inspection and potential replacement over time due to load and vibration.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines and classic styling.

Softail Lineage:

The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is characterized by its hidden rear suspension, providing a rigid frame appearance. The FLSTN model has evolved through various engine displacements and styling cues, consistently emphasizing retro design.

Production Era:

The Twin Cam 96 engine was introduced for Harley-Davidson models in 2007, replacing the Evolution engine in many applications. The FLSTN Softail Deluxe has been a staple in the Harley-Davidson lineup for many years, with stylistic updates and engine upgrades over its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Perception:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the Softail line, are consistently recognized for their iconic styling and brand loyalty. The FLSTN Softail Deluxe is praised for its comfortable ride and classic aesthetics.

Ownership Satisfaction:

Harley-Davidson generally scores well in ownership satisfaction surveys, often due to brand loyalty and the riding experience provided.