🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLSTC Shrine Softail

Year:

2008

Model Code:

FLSTC

👋 Introduction

Brand Positioning:

Harley-Davidson is positioned as a premium lifestyle brand, with the Softail line representing classic styling and comfortable cruising.

Competitive Segment:

Cruiser motorcycle segment, competing with models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles (historically), and some Japanese manufacturers' cruiser offerings.

Model Heritage:

The FLSTC (Softail Custom) embodies Harley-Davidson's classic styling cues, featuring the iconic Softail frame which mimics the look of a hardtail swingarm.

Engine Type:

Powered by the Twin Cam 96 V-twin engine, known for its torque and reliability.

Specific Edition:

The 'Shrine' designation may refer to a specific dealer customization or a themed model, although 'Shrine' is not a standard Harley-Davidson factory trim level. This manual specifically covers the FLSTC model, regardless of this designation.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Primary Coverage Focus:

Repair and Overhaul

Target Audience:

Technicians and experienced DIY mechanics

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Full diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of the Twin Cam 96 engine, including fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control systems.

Drivetrain:

Complete coverage of the transmission (e.g., 6-speed Cruise Drive), clutch, primary drive, and final drive systems.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension (telescopic fork, shock absorbers), frame, steering head, and wheel bearings.

Braking System:

Comprehensive information on front and rear brake systems, including hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Extensive coverage of the electrical system, including battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starter, and electronic control modules (ECM).

Fuel System:

Detailed procedures for the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, and evaporative emissions control system.

Body And Trim:

Information on fairings, fenders, seat assembly, fuel tank, and other body components, including removal and installation.

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and general inspection.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.

Engine Rebuilds:

Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications for critical components.

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for transmission disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Guidance on using multimeters and diagnostic tools, including wiring diagrams and troubleshooting electrical faults.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Procedures for fork seal replacement, shock absorber adjustment/replacement, and steering stem bearing service.

Brake System Service:

Instructions for brake fluid flushes, pad replacement, rotor inspection, and caliper servicing.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics for fuel injection and ignition systems, often requiring specific Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician).

Rebuild Scope:

Complete engine, transmission, and primary drive rebuild procedures are typically included.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all systems, crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners and components.

Special Tool Requirements:

Identification and explanation of specialized tools required for certain procedures, often proprietary to Harley-Davidson.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchable Text:

Typically yes, if generated from a digital source and not a scanned image without OCR.

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - requires user printing/binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - requires user printing/binding)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam

Engine Displacement:

96 cubic inches (1584cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine Configuration:

45-degree V-twin, air-cooled

Valve Train:

Pushrod-actuated overhead valves, 2 valves per cylinder

Torque Rating:

Approx. 92.6 ft-lbs (125 Nm) at 3,500 RPM (subject to specific testing and market variations)

Horsepower Rating:

Approx. 70-75 HP (52-56 kW) at 5,500 RPM (estimated, specific figures vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane

Ignition System:

High-output, coil-over-plug ignition system with knock control.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, hydraulically actuated clutch

Final Drive:

Belt drive

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 85W-140)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

9.33 ft (2845 mm)

Overall Width:

3.03 ft (925 mm)

Overall Height:

4.78 ft (1455 mm)

Seat Height Laden:

26.0 in (660 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.1 in (130 mm)

Dry Weight:

672 lbs (305 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1050 lbs (476 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 US gal (18.9 L)

Oil Capacity:

3.0 US qt (2.8 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and EPA, CARB regulations for motorcycles.

Braking System:

Dual-action front caliper, single-action rear caliper, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, amber turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel, cradle frame with Softail-style swingarm.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional accessory audio systems were available, typically featuring AM/FM radio, CD player, and often CB/Intercom capabilities. Specific factory infotainment for this model is limited.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on the 2008 FLSTC.

Diagnostic Ports:

Includes the diagnostic serial port for connection to Harley-Davidson Digital Technician or similar diagnostic tools.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil change, primary chain adjustment, and general inspection.

Subsequent Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km), consult manual for specific type and gap.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (or equivalent SAE 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications).

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) with filter change.

Primary Chaincase Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Formula + (or equivalent SAE 85W-140 gear oil meeting API GL-4).

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Formula + (or equivalent SAE 85W-140 gear oil meeting API GL-4).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid.

Crankcase Cracks:

While not as prevalent as in earlier Twin Cam models, early 2000s Twin Cam engines experienced some instances of crankcase cracks near the transmission mounting studs. 2008 models are less susceptible but worth noting for potential inspection on high-mileage units.

Cam Chain Tensioner Wear:

Hydraulic cam chain tensioners can wear out, leading to noise and potential engine damage. Upgraded composite tensioners are common replacements.

Starter Drive Issues:

Some units may experience wear on the starter drive gear or solenoid, leading to clicking or failure to engage the flywheel.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding:

Harley-Davidson Motor Company was founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Softail Line Introduction:

The Softail platform was introduced in 1984, featuring a hidden rear suspension system that mimicked the look of vintage hardtail frames.

Twin Cam Engine Introduction:

The Twin Cam engine family was introduced in 1999, evolving into the dominant engine for Harley-Davidson's cruiser lines.

Manufacturing Location:

York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (for the 2008 model year).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly the Softail line, are consistently recognized for their iconic styling, sound, and rider experience.