Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle Segment
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Owners, Independent Repair Shops, Vintage Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Key Competitors Era:
Other large-displacement V-twin cruisers from brands like Indian, Japanese manufacturers with cruiser offerings (e.g., Yamaha Virago, Honda Shadow, Kawasaki Vulcan)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Iconic Harley-Davidson styling, Evolution engine platform, customizable platform
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing a classic Harley-Davidson cruiser, enabling owners to perform their own work and understand complex systems.
Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Specific Models Covered:
FXST Softail Standard, FXSTC Softail Custom, FXSTS Softail Springer
Estimated Page Count:
High (typically 500+ pages for comprehensive manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
Evolution V-Twin Engine (1340cc), Top End (Cylinder Heads, Cylinders, Pistons), Bottom End (Crankcase, Crankshaft, Connecting Rods), Camshafts, Valve Train
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin CV), Fuel Lines, Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump (if applicable), Fuel Filter
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition, Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs, Ignition Module
Transmission:
5-Speed Constant Mesh Transmission (Cruise Drive), Clutch Assembly, Primary Drive, Shifter Mechanism
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Regulator/Rectifier), Lighting (Headlight, Taillight, Signals), Starter Motor, Switches, Fuses, Gauges
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Swingarm, Front Forks (Telescopic or Springer), Rear Shock Absorbers, Wheel Bearings, Steering Head Bearings
Braking System:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, Brake Calipers, Master Cylinders, Brake Lines, Brake Pads
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel Specifications, Tire Sizes, Tube/Tubeless, Balancing
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Checks, Chain Adjustment (if applicable), Brake Fluid Flush, Lubrication Points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Fault Finding, Electrical Troubleshooting Charts
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement
Disassembly And Assembly:
Complete Step-by-Step Instructions for Major Components
Technical Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Timing Settings, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Resistances
Depth:
Comprehensive (Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and chassis repairs)
Engine Type:
Air-Cooled, 45-degree V-Twin, OHV (Pushrod Actuated)
Engine Displacement:
1339.7 cc (81.8 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.499 in x 4.250 in (88.88 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 8.5:1 or 9.0:1 depending on the year and specific variant
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 65-70 HP @ 5000 RPM (Varies slightly by year and tuning)
Torque Est:
Approximately 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (Varies slightly by year and tuning)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm is standard for most of this period.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Minimum 87 Octane)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles (4,000 - 8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on riding conditions. Refer to the specific year's manual.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Recommended at regular service intervals as the tensioner is known to wear.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 (or equivalent high-quality motorcycle oil meeting API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for standard oil changes, more for filter replacement. Specific amount will be in the manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5 (depending on model year and original specifications - verify in manual).
Fork Oil Type:
Specific viscosity fork oil (e.g., 10W or 15W) as recommended by Harley-Davidson.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
The original spring-loaded tensioner can wear out, leading to chain slap and potential damage. Upgraded hydraulic tensioners are a common aftermarket solution.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetors can sometimes be finicky and may require periodic adjustment or jetting changes based on altitude, modifications, or wear.
Electrical Connectors:
Older bikes can develop corroded or loose electrical connectors, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Thorough inspection and cleaning are recommended.
Wheel Bearings:
Routine inspection and potential replacement of wheel bearings are standard maintenance for vintage motorcycles.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history in performance, customization, and lifestyle.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983 (as an '84 model), was revolutionary for Harley-Davidson, featuring hidden rear suspension to mimic the hardtail look while providing rider comfort.
Fxst Development:
The FXST models (Softail Standard) were the foundational versions of the Softail line, establishing the classic cruiser profile. Variants like the FXSTC (Custom) and FXSTS (Springer) offered factory custom styling and features.
Production Period:
1984-1990 covers the initial generation of the FXST Softail series.
