Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle enthusiasts performing their own maintenance
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, step-by-step guidance to maintain, diagnose, and repair specific Harley-Davidson Softail models, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Alternatives:
Dealership service departments, generic motorcycle repair guides (less specific), unofficial online forums (unverified information).
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, covering every aspect of the motorcycle's mechanics and electronics.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes exploded views, wiring diagrams, and schematic illustrations crucial for repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, oil pump, timing
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel filter
Ignition System:
Ignition module, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, heat shields, gaskets
Transmission:
5-speed Cruise Drive, clutch, primary drive, secondary drive (belt)
Frame And Suspension:
Frame components, front forks (FLSTC/F, FLSTS specific), rear shock absorbers, swingarm
Brakes:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, brake discs
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), switches, wiring diagrams
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, fairings (if applicable), saddlebags (FLSTC/STS)
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire types, tire pressure, bearing maintenance
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, belt inspection and tensioning
Major Engine Repairs:
Top-end overhaul, bottom-end rebuild, valve adjustments, carburetor tuning
Transmission Overhaul:
Clutch replacement, gearset inspection and repair, primary chain adjustment
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil change, shock absorber inspection
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleed
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of charging system issues, lighting faults, starter problems using wiring diagrams
Bodywork Repair And Refinishing:
Panel removal and installation, cosmetic repair
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common issues
Specifications Provided:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin (Pushrod OHV)
Displacement:
1339.7 cc (81.8 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.437 in x 4.425 in (87.3 mm x 112.4 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (Typical for 1340cc Evolution)
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (Estimated, not officially published by Harley-Davidson for this era)
Torque:
Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (Estimated)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87-octane minimum recommended
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15.1 L) for FLSTC/FLSTF, 5.0 US gallons (18.9 L) for FLSTS
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent V-twin specific oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson 63796-77B or equivalent (e.g., Fram CH6065, K&N HP-1004)
Wheelbase:
FLSTC/FLSTF: 63.2 inches (1605 mm), FLSTS: 63.8 inches (1620 mm)
Length:
FLSTC/FLSTF: 90.8 inches (2305 mm), FLSTS: 92.7 inches (2355 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
Approx. 26.1 inches (663 mm)
Dry Weight:
FLSTC: 668 lbs (303 kg), FLSTF: 668 lbs (303 kg), FLSTS: 673 lbs (305 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1075 lbs (488 kg)
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) - includes engine oil and filter change, primary chaincase inspection, belt tension check, and general inspection.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months - includes engine oil and filter change, primary chaincase inspection, belt tension check, and general inspection.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 5000 miles, replace as needed or typically every 10,000-15,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Synthetic or Conventional Motorcycle Oil, or equivalent V-twin specific API SG or higher.
Primary Chaincase Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Heavy Duty Brake Fluid.
Oil Leaks:
Potential for minor leaks from rocker box gaskets, primary cover, or crankcase seals due to age and vibration.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor may require periodic adjustment for optimal performance, especially with altitude or exhaust changes.
Belt Drive Tension:
Incorrect belt tension can lead to premature wear of the belt and pulleys; requires regular checking.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent electrical faults. Regular inspection of grounds and connectors is advised.
Brand Identity:
Harley-Davidson is synonymous with American motorcycle culture, known for V-twin engines and a legacy of customization and freedom.
Softail Development:
The Softail line, introduced in 1984, mimicked the hardtail look with hidden rear suspension, offering a classic rigid frame appearance with modern ride comfort.
Softail Variants 1997 1998:
FLSTC (Heritage Classic) featured classic styling with a large windshield, leather-look saddlebags, and fringe; FLSTF (Fat Boy) known for its wider tires and distinctive styling; FLSTS (Heritage Springer) featured a springer-style front fork and vintage detailing.
Engine Transition:
The 1340cc Evolution engine was the cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's lineup during this period, preceding the introduction of the Twin Cam engine in 1999.
