Positioning:
The 2008 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy represented a classic cruiser aesthetic blended with modern Harley-Davidson engineering, a benchmark in the cruiser segment for style and performance.
Competitors:
Competed with models like Indian Chief, Honda Shadow series, and other large-displacement cruisers from Japanese and American manufacturers.
Distinctive Features:
Iconic Fat Boy styling with wide front fork, large front wheel, chrome accents, and the distinctive FLSTF profile.
Value:
Provides essential, factory-level information for maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting the 2008 FLSTF Fat Boy, empowering owners and technicians.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting of the Twin Cam 96 V-Twin engine.
Fuel System:
EFI system troubleshooting, injector servicing, fuel pump operation, fuel tank maintenance, fuel filter replacement.
Ignition System:
Spark plug diagnosis, ignition coil testing, crank position sensor, ignition module troubleshooting.
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission service, clutch operation and adjustment, gear inspection, oil change procedures.
Drivetrain:
Primary drive system, final belt drive maintenance, belt tension adjustment, sprocket inspection.
Electrical System:
Battery service, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, horn, and accessory circuits.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system service, front and rear caliper maintenance, brake fluid flush and bleed, brake pad replacement, ABS (if equipped) component testing.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) servicing, rear shock absorber replacement, fork oil change, seal replacement.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing maintenance, swingarm lubrication.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank removal and installation, seat servicing, handlebar replacement, minor body panel adjustments.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, brake fluid checks, battery maintenance.
Component Overhaul:
Full engine rebuild procedures, transmission disassembly and reassembly, brake caliper rebuilding, fork seal replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostics for starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and braking concerns.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, engine timing data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full mechanical and electrical overhauls.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96 V-Twin
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV) with two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated.
Horsepower:
Approx. 70-75 HP (Manufacturer's data may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approx. 90-96 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (Manufacturer's data may vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.944, 4th: 3.737, 5th: 3.150, 6th: 2.790
Primary Drive:
Plated wet multi-disc clutch, chain drive to transmission
Final Drive:
Enclosed belt drive, 32/66 tooth ratio
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic actuation, wet multi-plate
First Service:
1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (engine oil, primary chain case oil, filter, inspection).
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months for engine oil and filter. Primary chain case oil every 10,000 miles (16000 km) or 24 months.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8000 km). Adjust tension as needed according to manual specifications.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 24 months or as per manual's specific guidance.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W-50 Synthetic) or equivalent API SG, JASO FD approved oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 US qt (3.3 L) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Fluid or SYN3 (SAE 50).
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
1 quart (0.95 L)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid or SYN3 (SAE 50) or SAE 60 gear oil if specified.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
24 US fl oz (0.71 L)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid.
Potential Issues:
Cam chain tensioner wear (internal to the engine), potential for oil leaks at seals, clutch lever adjustment sensitivity.
Preventative Measures:
Adherence to scheduled maintenance, particularly for engine oil and primary chain case oil changes, is crucial for longevity.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of building powerful, stylish, and durable machines.
Fat Boy Origin:
The Fat Boy was introduced in 1990 and quickly became a cultural icon, famously featured in films like 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day'.
2008 Update:
The 2008 model continued the evolution of the Fat Boy, featuring the Twin Cam 96 engine and Cruise Drive transmission, enhancing performance and comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
