Market Segment:
Cruiser motorcycles, premium segment.
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, custom builders, professional mechanics.
Competitors 2006:
Indian Motorcycles (Chief, Scout), Victory Motorcycles (Vegas, Kingpin), custom builders, other Harley-Davidson models.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair complex Harley-Davidson systems, potentially saving significant costs on dealership service.
Coverage Scope:
The inclusion of electrical diagnostics and a specific high-performance model supplement (FLSTFSE) makes this manual particularly valuable.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive repair and service for 2006 Harley-Davidson Softail models, including electrical diagnostics and a specific supplement for the FLSTFSE.
Included Supplements:
Electrical Diagnostics Manual, FLSTFSE Supplement Manual
Estimated Total Pages:
Likely 500-800+ pages, considering a primary manual, electrical diagnostics, and a model-specific supplement.
Type:
Factory-style Service/Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (Instant)
Engine:
Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling system (air-cooled).
Transmission:
5-speed transmission (likely Cruise Drive), clutch, primary drive, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication.
Fuel System:
Carburetion (Keihin CV on some models) or Fuel Injection (EFI - Electronic Fuel Injection) systems, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, instruments, gauges, switches, battery maintenance, fuses, relays.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems (front and rear), calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, rotor specifications, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (e.g., 49mm telescopic forks for FXST models), rear shock absorbers, suspension adjustments, fork seal replacement, shock absorber specifications.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, swingarm service, wheel bearing replacement, lubrication points.
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank removal/installation, seat service, fairings/windshields (if applicable), chrome component care.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic codes (for EFI models), electrical fault finding.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), tire pressure checks, brake pad inspection.
Repair:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete tear-down and reassembly of all major components.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing and resolving mechanical and electrical problems.
Torques:
Specific torque specifications for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Visual Aids:
Includes pictures and part diagrams to illustrate procedures and component identification.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam
Displacement Standard:
Approximately 1450cc (88 cubic inches) for FLST and FXST models. Note: FLSTFSE likely features a larger displacement like 117 cubic inches.
Configuration:
V-twin, air-cooled
Bore X Stroke Standard:
Approx. 3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm) for 1450cc.
Compression Ratio Standard:
Typically around 9.0:1 for the 1450cc Twin Cam.
Horsepower Standard:
Estimated 65-70 HP at the crankshaft for the 1450cc Twin Cam.
Torque Standard:
Estimated 80-85 lb-ft at the crankshaft for the 1450cc Twin Cam.
Peak Torque Rpm Standard:
Typically around 3200 RPM for the 1450cc Twin Cam.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) or Keihin CV Carburetor, depending on specific sub-model and market.
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DS-ED) with coil-on-plug or dual-fire ignition.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane.
Type:
5-speed Constant Mesh, Cruise Drive
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, 9-plate diaphragm spring.
Primary Drive:
Plated chain, hydraulic tensioner, compensator sprocket.
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 136-tooth belt, 65-tooth rear pulley, 32-tooth front pulley (typical).
Gear Ratios Typical:
1st: 9.896, 2nd: 6.470, 3rd: 4.774, 4th: 3.874, 5th: 3.151
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn 3 Transmission Oil or equivalent SAE 85W-140 Hypoid gear lubricant.
Wheelbase Typical:
Approx. 64.5 - 66.0 inches (1638 - 1676 mm), varies by FLST/FXST sub-model.
Seat Height Typical:
Approx. 26.5 - 27.0 inches (673 - 686 mm), unladen, varies by model.
Dry Weight Typical:
Approx. 650 - 700 lbs (295 - 318 kg), varies by model.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Typical:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg).
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed through regulatory standards and industry practices, not standardized crash test ratings like automobiles).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, dual-piston calipers standard.
Tire Specifications Front Typical:
Bias-ply or Radial, e.g., MT90B16 or 100/90-19.
Tire Specifications Rear Typical:
Bias-ply or Radial, e.g., MU85B16 or 150/80B16.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, incandescent tail and turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, backbone type.
Audio System:
Some higher-spec models or optional equipment may include an audio system; the manual would cover its basic operation and troubleshooting.
Gauges And Instruments:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel gauge, oil pressure indicator, and warning lights. Manual details their function and troubleshooting.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many Harley-Davidson models by 2006. The manual would detail its components and servicing if equipped.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control may be available; procedures for its operation and diagnosis would be included.
Diagnostic Tool Interface:
EFI models likely support basic diagnostics via a diagnostic port and a dealer tool (e.g., H-D Dealer Diagnostic Tool). The manual will guide owners on interpreting codes.
First Service:
Typically around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for initial break-in service (oil change, filter, primary chain check).
Regular Service Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, for oil changes and general inspection.
Major Service Intervals:
Includes transmission and primary drive service, often recommended around 10,000-20,000 miles, with detailed procedures in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Performance Oil or equivalent API CI-4 or higher rated synthetic motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 85W-140 Hypoid gear lubricant.
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1 quart (0.95 L).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 5 Silicone-based brake fluid is typically specified by Harley-Davidson for this era. **Important: Verify specific model requirements as DOT 4 might be used on some newer models.**
Twin Cam Tensioners:
Early Twin Cam models are known for cam chain tensioner wear, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures for these.
Primary Drive Issues:
Potential for hydraulic tensioner failure or primary bearing wear. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent electrical faults. The electrical diagnostic section is crucial here.
Fuel Injector Issues:
EFI models can experience clogged injectors or issues with the fuel pump, covered in the diagnostic section.
Brand Identity:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform was introduced in 1984, featuring a hidden rear suspension to mimic the rigid hardtail look.
2006 Updates:
The 2006 models saw continued refinement of the Twin Cam engine, integration of electronic fuel injection on many models, and updated styling across the Softail line.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania).