Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle segment
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Dyna owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle enthusiasts.
Competitors Platform:
Competes with other cruiser platforms from brands like Indian Motorcycles, Victory Motorcycles (historical), and Japanese manufacturers' cruiser lines.
Vehicle Appeal:
The Dyna platform is known for its muscular styling, accessible riding position, and a good balance of performance and comfort for cruising.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information for owners and technicians, enabling self-sufficiency and accurate repairs.
Primary Coverage:
Harley-Davidson Dyna family of motorcycles
Specific Models Covered:
Includes coverage for models such as the Super Glide, Street Bob, Low Rider, Fat Bob, and Switchback (depending on specific Dyna sub-variants for 2008).
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 600-900+ pages for a complete factory service manual of this era.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, clutch, drivetrain (primary and secondary).
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear).
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, starting system, charging system, battery, instrumentation, body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, throttle body, fuel system diagnostics.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable), exhaust system diagnostics.
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, fairings (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem diagnosis and solutions for all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, using diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Digital Technician).
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Harley-Davidson specific tools required for various repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, schematics, and diagrams for all procedures.
PDF Quality:
High resolution, clear text and images, optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Searchability:
Typically text-searchable PDF, allowing users to quickly find specific topics.
Reproducibility:
Designed for clear printing of all pages, ensuring legibility for workshop use.
Binding For Print:
N/A (Digital Download - Print as needed)
Paper For Print:
N/A (Digital Download - Print on standard paper)
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96 (1584cc)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584 cc)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 75-80 HP (Varies slightly by model and tuning)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 90-95 ft-lbs @ 3000-3500 RPM (Varies slightly by model and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Spark Ignition, High-output, Coil-over-plug
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive Transmission
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.971, 4th: 3.850, 5th: 3.307, 6th: 2.790 (Approximate, check specific model for exact ratios)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (6-speed Cruise Drive was standard for the Twin Cam 96)
Clutch Type:
Clutched in transmission, Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate, wet clutch
Final Drive:
Carbon reinforced belt, 14mm pitch, 1.5" width
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Oil (or equivalent GL-4 75W-90, check manual for specifics)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.25 - 64.75 inches (1632 - 1644.6 mm) depending on specific Dyna model
Length:
Approx. 90 - 92 inches (2286 - 2337 mm) depending on specific Dyna model
Seat Height:
Approx. 26 - 27 inches (660 - 686 mm) unladen, depending on specific Dyna model
Dry Weight:
Approx. 630 - 660 lbs (286 - 299 kg) depending on specific Dyna model
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 1000-1100 lbs (454-499 kg), check specific model
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by NHTSA/IIHS in the same way as cars. Safety is assessed through design and component integrity.
Braking System:
Dual-piston caliper front brake with 292mm disc, Dual-piston caliper rear brake with 292mm disc. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many 2008 Dyna models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, amber incandescent front and rear turn signals.
Frame Design:
Steel, rigid-mount, trike frame construction (for standard Dyna, not trike models) providing structural integrity.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltage meter, oil pressure gauge, and indicator lights. ABS indicator light if equipped.
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems were available, not standard on all 2008 Dynas.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option for 2008 Dyna models. The manual will detail its operation and servicing.
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II equivalent for motorcycles) accessible via Harley-Davidson Digital Technician (requires proprietary interface tool, covered in manual).
Initial Service:
First service typically at 1,000 miles (1600 km) - includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain tensioner check, all fasteners torque check.
Subsequent Service:
Subsequent services typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km), refer to manual for specific type and gap.
Drive Belt Tension:
Check and adjust belt tension at 2,500 mile intervals and as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin 20W-50 or Syn3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 engine oil. Consult manual for specific temperature range recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change. Check dipstick before starting.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission/Primary Oil or suitable equivalent.
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.8 quarts (2.6 liters). Check level via sight glass.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 compatible fluid for hydraulic clutch and brake systems.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, drive belt, wheel bearings.
Engine Specific Considerations:
Primary chain tensioner wear (especially early Twin Cam models), cam chain tensioner wear, potential for oil leaks from seals and gaskets.
Electrical Considerations:
Wiring harness integrity, regulator/rectifier issues, starter solenoid failures can occur with age.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Dyna Lineage:
The Dyna line, introduced in 1991, represented a more modern take on the classic Harley-Davidson cruiser, evolving from earlier FX series models with a focus on a more rigid chassis and the introduction of the Twin Cam engine.
2008 Updates:
The 2008 model year saw the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 96 engine across the Dyna range and the availability of Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI).
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Model Awards:
The Harley-Davidson Dyna platform has consistently received acclaim for its styling and performance within the cruiser segment, though specific annual awards for the 2008 model year are not widely documented in a consolidated manner. Its reputation is built over years of consistent performance and iconic design.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally good reliability when properly maintained. Key to longevity is adherence to the service schedule and using correct fluids and parts, as detailed in this manual.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the year of manufacture. Manual will contain relevant specifications.