🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Softail

Model Variant:

Specific Softail models within the 1997-1998 range (e.g., Heritage Softail Classic, Fat Boy, Night Train, etc. - manual covers these).

Year:

1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

FG (for 1997 models), FH (for 1998 models)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential technical resource for owners and mechanics of 1997-1998 Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycles, bridging the gap between basic owner information and in-depth factory service manuals.

Alternatives:

Factory service manuals (FSMs) are the primary alternative, but third-party manuals often provide a more accessible format or supplement factory information. This manual aims to provide that comprehensive coverage.

Features:

Detailed diagrams, step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, and complete specifications for reliable maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance for Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycles.

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications, and exploded views for all major components.

Estimated Page Count:

~800-1000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed manual, or potentially a PDF scan of the original.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Evolution (Evo) V-Twin engine (1340cc/82 cubic inch) overhaul, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling systems.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Keihin CV 40), fuel injection (if applicable to specific models), fuel pump, fuel tank, lines, and filters.

Ignition System:

Ignition module, coils, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustments.

Transmission:

5-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch assembly, primary drive, secondary drive (belt drive).

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, pads, fluid bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front fork (e.g., Showa) disassembly, service, oil levels; rear shock absorber replacement and adjustment.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter motor, battery, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), switches, fuses.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, fenders, seat, fuel tank mounting.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing service, tire replacement, spoke tensioning (if applicable), wheel balancing.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt adjustments, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, electrical, and brake issues.

Repair:

Complete disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.

Diagnostics:

Includes basic diagnostic checks and testing procedures for electrical components.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

If digital (PDF): Searchable text, high-resolution images, vector diagrams where applicable.

Quality Details:

If printed: Durable paper, clear print, professional binding for workshop use.

Binding:

Likely saddle-stitched or perfect bound for printed versions to lay flat.

Paper:

If printed: Heavyweight, glossy or matte paper suitable for workshop environments, resistant to grease and dirt.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Harley-Davidson Evolution (Evo) V-Twin, air-cooled

Displacement:

1339 cc (81.8 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.496 in x 4.250 in (88.8 mm x 108.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.5:1 to 9.0:1 (depending on specific model and tuning)

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP at the crankshaft (varies by model and tuning)

Torque:

Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs at 3200 RPM (varies by model and tuning)

Carburetor:

Keihin CV 40 (Constant Velocity) 40mm

Fuel Octane Rating:

Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (CDI based)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change (check manual for exact specification)

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific V-Twin oil (refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity recommendations based on temperature).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh, foot-shifted

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain in oil bath

Secondary Drive:

Belt drive (32mm wide)

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant, SAE 50, or other equivalent V-Twin primary lubricant (check manual for exact specification).

Clutch:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 64.5 - 65.5 inches (1638 - 1664 mm) depending on model variant

Seat Height:

Approx. 26 - 27 inches (660 - 686 mm) depending on model variant

Dry Weight:

Approx. 600 - 650 lbs (272 - 295 kg) depending on model variant

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 900-1000 lbs (408-454 kg) - check specific model

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Motorcycles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as cars. Safety is primarily determined by design and rider skill.

Braking:

Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake (standard on most Softails of this era).

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals.

Frame Design:

Robust steel frame design for stability.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Generally basic for this era. Primarily focused on analogue gauges (speedometer, tachometer if equipped, oil pressure, voltmeter, fuel level). No integrated audio or navigation systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense. Safety features are mechanical (brakes, chassis).

Connectivity:

No electronic connectivity features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,500-5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact interval for specific riding conditions).

Primary Oil Change Interval:

Often recommended at the same intervals as engine oil, or slightly longer (check manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on plug type (check manual).

Belt Tension Check And Adjustment:

Every 5,000 miles or as needed (check manual for specific adjustment procedures and slack specification).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid (Harley-Davidson recommends their specific fluid, but DOT 4 is generally compatible).

Fork Oil Type:

Specific weight fork oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson Type 'E' or 'B', or equivalent like Spectro HD). Weight and amount are critical and detailed in the manual.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

Early Evolution engines are known for their cam chain tensioner pads wearing out, which can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed. Later models and aftermarket upgrades address this. Manual will detail inspection.

Carburetor Adjustment:

Keihin CV carburetors require periodic adjustments and can be sensitive to air leaks.

Electrical Connections:

As with many motorcycles of this era, corrosion or loose connections in the electrical system can cause intermittent faults.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Commonly uses HD-45460-87 or aftermarket equivalents (e.g., K&N HP-1003, Fram PH6018, Purolator PL1003).

Air Filter Part Number:

Varies by specific Softail model (e.g., Heritage, Fat Boy). Manual will specify.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history, founded in 1903, known for its V-twin engines, classic styling, and cruiser motorcycle segment dominance.

Softail Lineage:

The Softail platform was introduced in 1984, designed to mimic the look of a hardtail frame with hidden rear suspension for a smoother ride. It has evolved significantly over the years, with the 1997-1998 models featuring the robust Evolution engine.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin).

Production Years:

The Evolution engine powered Harley-Davidson motorcycles from 1984 through 2000 in many models, and continued in some models even later. The Softail line remains a core offering for Harley-Davidson.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Awards:

Harley-Davidson as a brand has received numerous accolades for its iconic design, engineering, and cultural impact. The Softail line is consistently praised for its ride comfort and classic styling.