Model:
FLSTC Heritage Softail
Production Years Covered By Manual:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Vehicle Platform:
Softail
Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Brand Perception:
Iconic American motorcycle known for its classic styling, V-twin engine, and touring capability.
Key Competitors:
Indian Chief, other large-displacement V-twin cruisers from Japanese manufacturers (e.g., Yamaha V-Star, Kawasaki Vulcan)
Styling:
Retro styling, chrome accents, white-wall tires, generous use of leather.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin engine.
Suspension:
Softail frame with hidden rear shock absorbers for a hardtail appearance, comfortable ride.
Heritage Design:
Evokes the styling of 1940s and 1950s Harley-Davidsons.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, top-end and bottom-end repairs, component diagnostics, timing procedures
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul (Keihin CV carburetors common), fuel injection systems (later models), fuel pump, fuel lines
Ignition System:
Ignition module, coils, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustments
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox overhaul, primary drive, final drive (belt drive common)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, accessories, battery service
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil changes, seal replacement), rear shock absorber replacement, suspension geometry
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fairings, fenders, seat components
Wheels And Tires:
Tire replacement, wheel bearing service, spoke tensioning (if applicable), wheel balancing
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic codes (if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain/belt adjustment, lubrication, tune-ups
Component Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuilds, carburetor rebuilds, brake caliper rebuilding
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues
Alignment:
Wheel alignment, steering head bearing adjustment
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring harness repair, component replacement, troubleshooting electrical faults
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and specifications for identifying component failures and performance issues.
Rebuild Guidance:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds with torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Family:
Evolution (often referred to as 'Evo' Big Twin)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement Cc:
1337 cc (80 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.500 in x 4.250 in (88.9 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for Evo 80ci)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 60-70 HP (varies by year and specific tuning)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 70-80 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (varies by year)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor (e.g., CV40) for most of this range. Some later models or variants may have fuel injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Type:
5-speed constant mesh manual transmission
Primary Drive:
Wet, multi-plate clutch; enclosed chain drive
Clutch Actuation:
Cable-actuated
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid)
Transmission Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 2.8 US quarts (2.6 liters)
Length In:
Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Width In:
Approx. 36.4 inches (925 mm)
Height In:
Approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm)
Wheelbase In:
Approx. 63.7 inches (1618 mm)
Dry Weight Lbs:
Approx. 655 lbs (297 kg)
Wet Weight Lbs:
Approx. 698 lbs (317 kg) (with fluids)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
Typically around 1000-1100 lbs (454-500 kg), check specific year spec
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to typical automotive crash test ratings. Safety relies on rider skill and vehicle design.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Hydraulic actuation.
Suspension Stability:
Designed for stable handling, though suspension can be tuned for rider preference.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame providing structural integrity.
First Service Miles:
1,000 miles (1,600 km)
Subsequent Oil Change Miles:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Intervals:
Consult manual for specific major service items (e.g., belt tension, brake fluid flush, fork oil).
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W50, or equivalent V-twin motorcycle oil
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early Evo engines (pre-2002) had plastic cam chain tensioners that could wear prematurely. Upgraded hydraulic tensioners are recommended.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetors may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance. Jetting might need modification after exhaust/air cleaner upgrades.
Oil Leaks:
Typical for older motorcycles, especially around primary cover, engine case joints, and rocker boxes. Inspect and address as needed.
Belt Drive Wear:
Belt tension needs regular checking to prevent premature wear on the belt and pulleys.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson boasts a long and storied history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture.
Heritage Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform itself was introduced in 1984, designed to mimic the rigid look of vintage motorcycles while offering modern suspension.
Flstc Introduction:
The FLSTC Heritage Softail variant, with its iconic styling cues, became a staple of the Harley-Davidson lineup, offering classic appeal.
Engine Development:
The Evolution engine, introduced in 1984, replaced the Shovelhead and Panhead engines, offering improved reliability and performance.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania)
