Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail owners, independent repair shops, technicians
Manual Advantage:
Official factory documentation ensures accuracy and completeness unavailable in generic aftermarket manuals
Feature 1:
Official Factory OEM Service Manual
Feature 2:
Covers all 2008 Softail models
Feature 3:
Detailed diagrams, schematics, and illustrations
Feature 4:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul for Twin Cam 96B
Fuel System:
EFI system diagnostics, component testing, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body
Ignition System:
Ignition module, spark plugs, coil testing and replacement
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission overhaul, inspection, lubrication
Clutch:
Clutch assembly, primary drive, clutch plates, hydraulic clutch system
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, bleeding, component replacement (calipers, master cylinders, lines)
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) and rear shock absorber service, oil replacement, adjustment
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter, fuses, relays
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) interpretation
Bodywork And Frame:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, fenders, fuel tank
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire replacement, wheel balancing
Control Systems:
Handlebar controls, throttle cables, brake levers
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, belt tensioning
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnose and fix problems
Diagnostic Charts:
Flowcharts for identifying causes of malfunctions
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Includes detailed torque specifications, tolerances, and procedures for expert-level service
๐ Manual Specifications
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B V-twin
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 70-75 HP (Model dependent, manufacturer rated)
Torque:
Approx. 90-95 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (Model dependent, manufacturer rated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or equivalent SAE 20W50
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive Manual
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, multi-plate wet clutch
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidsonยฎ Formulaยฎ+ or equivalent SAE 50 Motorcycle Transmission Oil
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters)
Length:
Varies by specific Softail model (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage Softail Classic, Night Train)
Seat Height Laden:
Varies by model, typically around 26-27 inches (66-68.5 cm)
Dry Weight:
Varies by model, typically around 650-700 lbs (295-317 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified by H-D as a GVWR, but payload capacity is a consideration
Fuel Capacity:
Varies by model, typically 5.0 gallons (18.9 liters)
Safety Certification:
Meets FMVSS standards for motorcycles (US market)
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper and single-piston rear caliper
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp and brake lamp, amber turn signals
Frame Construction:
Mild steel, tubular frame and swingarm
Tire Pressure:
Recommended tire pressures vary by model and tire, typically 36-40 PSI front, 40-42 PSI rear
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 20W50 Motorcycle Oil (Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent)
Transmission Oil Spec:
SAE 50 Motorcycle Transmission Oil (Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent)
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch and brake systems)
Common Issue 1:
Stiff clutch operation (can be addressed with bleeding or clutch lever adjustment)
Common Issue 2:
Exhaust pipe leaks (due to heat and vibration, requires tightening or gasket replacement)
Common Issue 3:
Battery drain or charging system issues (stator, regulator/rectifier are common failure points)
Common Issue 4:
Harley-Davidson diagnostic codes (requiring specific tools and knowledge to interpret)
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Harley-Davidson 63796-77A or equivalent
Air Filter Part Number:
Varies by specific Softail model, consult manual
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser motorcycles.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is known for its classic hardtail look with hidden rear suspension, mimicking vintage rigid frames while providing modern comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
