Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail 2008 owners, independent repair shops, and motorcycle enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the same information as dealership service departments, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving time and money.
Completeness:
Complete official factory service manual, covering all aspects of the motorcycle.
Usability:
Printable in its entirety or by specific sections, offering flexibility for users.
Engine Service:
Detailed procedures for Twin Cam 96B engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair.
Fuel System Service:
Includes EFI system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank service.
Transmission Service:
Covers 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission maintenance, repair, and fluid specifications.
Electrical System Service:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for lighting, ignition, charging, and accessories.
Brake System Service:
Front and rear brake caliper, master cylinder, rotor, and ABS (if equipped) service.
Suspension Service:
Front fork and rear shock absorber maintenance, adjustments, and rebuild procedures.
Frame And Bodywork:
Body panel removal, installation, and chassis component service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, air filter cleaning/replacement, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific diagnostic charts and fault code interpretation.
Component Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding or replacing major and minor components.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for certain procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text due to being an official factory manual.
Print Readability:
Designed for clear printing of all hundreds of pages.
Binding Type:
Not applicable for PDF download; intended for printing and binding by user.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for PDF download; user to select paper type for printing.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96B
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
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. 65-70 HP (actual figures vary)
Torque:
Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (actual figures vary)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (R+M)/2
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Cruise Drive Manual
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this specific model year and platform.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios covered in the manual (e.g., 1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.942, 4th: 3.744, 5th: 3.216, 6th: 2.788 - illustrative, refer to manual for exact figures).
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent SAE 50 API GL-1 gear oil.
Primary Drive:
Patented dual-drive system, including compensated sprocket.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.2 inches (1630 mm) - specific to Softail models, consult manual for exact variant.
Length:
Approx. 92.2 inches (2342 mm) - specific to Softail models, consult manual for exact variant.
Seat Height:
Approx. 26.5 inches (673 mm) - unladen, specific to Softail models, consult manual for exact variant.
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.4 inches (112 mm) - specific to Softail models, consult manual for exact variant.
Dry Weight:
Approx. 630 lbs (286 kg) - specific to Softail models, consult manual for exact variant.
Gvwr:
Not typically specified for motorcycles in the same way as cars; refer to manual for load capacity.
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 gallons (18.9 L)
Safety Certification:
Meets DOT and EPA standards for motorcycle operation.
Braking System:
Dual-action, front and rear disc brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail/stop light, amber incandescent front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tubing, cradle frame design.
Audio System:
Factory optional AM/FM/WB stereo with CD player or CB/intercom may have been available, detailed in accessory sections of manual.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced braking control, if equipped.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-II compliant diagnostic connector (under seat) for electronic diagnostics and data retrieval.
First Service:
Typically around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for initial oil change, primary chain adjustment, and general inspection. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Regular Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first for engine oil. Primary and transmission oil intervals are also specified.
Air Filter Service:
Check at every service, replace as needed (interval depends on operating conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent API CI-4 rated motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 API GL-1 gear oil.
Primary Chaincase Capacity:
Approx. 2.8 quarts (2.6 L).
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 API GL-1 gear oil.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 L).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals, and drive belt can be common wear items depending on mileage and riding style.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally robust, older Harley-Davidson electrical systems can sometimes develop intermittent issues; the manual's diagnostic sections are crucial here.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular fuel stabilizer use and maintaining clean fuel can prevent issues with the EFI system.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903, known for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1984, is characterized by its hidden rear suspension, designed to mimic the look of a hardtail frame while providing modern ride comfort. The 2008 model represents a mature iteration of this successful design.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States by Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
