🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLSTF Fat Boy

Year:

2008

Product Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Oem Manual Part Number:

99483-08

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy 2008 owners, technicians, and enthusiasts seeking detailed service information.

Comparison:

The Fat Boy is a flagship model known for its distinctive styling and V-twin engine, competing with other large-displacement cruisers from brands like Indian Motorcycle and Victory Motorcycles.

Iconic Design:

The 2008 Fat Boy is recognized for its large, solid-disc wheels, wide handlebars, and classic cruiser silhouette.

Engine Platform:

Features Harley-Davidson's robust Twin Cam 96B engine, known for its torque and reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models/En (Implies all variants of FLSTF Fat Boy for 2008)

Pages:

Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for a comprehensive Harley-Davidson service manual of this era)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (Twin Cam 96B), Transmission (6-speed Cruise Drive), Clutch, Final Drive

Chassis:

Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear), Steering

Electrical:

Ignition System, Lighting System, Charging System, Starting System, Gauges, Instruments, H-D Smart Security System

Bodywork:

Fuel Tank, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Footboards, Mirrors

Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel Injection (EFI - Delphi), Fuel System Components, Emissions Control Systems

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points, Tire Pressure Checks, Brake Pad Inspections

Scheduled Maintenance:

Valve Adjustments, Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection/Adjustment, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Tensioning

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts, Common Problems and Solutions, Fault Code Interpretation (where applicable)

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Disassembly/Reassembly, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement

Technical Adjustments:

Throttle Cable Adjustment, Clutch Cable Adjustment, Idle Speed Adjustment, Cruise Control Calibration (if equipped)

Depth:

Comprehensive - Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear readability and printability.

Searchable:

Likely text-searchable PDF if converted from digital source, otherwise image-based.

Printability:

Designed for home or professional printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

Digital PDF (no physical binding)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B V-twin

Displacement:

96 cubic inches (1584 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

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

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1

Valvetrain:

Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves with hydraulic lifters

Horsepower:

Approximately 70-75 HP (estimated, actual figures vary)

Torque:

Approximately 86-90 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (estimated, actual figures vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) - Delphi

Fuel Type:

Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane

Ignition System:

High-performance, dual-fire, non-serviceable ignition module

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.446, 3rd: 4.717, 4th: 3.826, 5th: 3.230, 6th: 2.790 (Typical values, verify in manual)

Transmission Options:

None for FLSTF model

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, multi-plate, wet clutch

Primary Drive:

Chain, 34/46 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt, 32/66 ratio

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Syn 3 Transmission Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Spectro, Bel-Ray)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

92.5 in. (2350 mm)

Width:

38.0 in. (965 mm) (at handlebars)

Height:

48.0 in. (1219 mm)

Wheelbase:

64.2 in. (1630 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.1 in. (130 mm)

Dry Weight:

696 lbs (315.7 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

1160 lbs (526.2 kg)

Payload Capacity:

464 lbs (210.5 kg)

Seat Height Laden:

24.8 in. (630 mm)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 gal. (18.9 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not Applicable (Motorcycle)

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Standard ABS not typically equipped on this base model, but check specific VIN.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail/brake lights, amber incandescent front/rear turn signals.

Security System:

Harley-Davidson Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free fob.

Mirrors:

Chrome, dual-view mirrors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional, typically a factory-installed AM/FM/Weatherband radio with CB/Intercom capability and a CD player. Handlebar-mounted controls.

Display:

Analog speedometer with integrated LCD display for odometer, trip meter, gear indicator, and diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronic cruise control, often integrated into handlebar controls.

Diagnostic Port:

Features a CAN bus diagnostic port for connection to H-D digital technician and other diagnostic tools.

Key Fob:

Proximity-based key fob for ignition, steering lock, and security system activation/deactivation.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) - Typically includes oil/filter change, primary chain adjustment, inspection of all systems.

Subsequent Service:

Every 5,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) - Includes oil/filter changes, lubrication, inspections. More intensive checks (e.g., valve adjustments) at specified intervals.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson 20W50 Full Synthetic (Syn 3) or equivalent. Capacity: 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant (Formula +) or equivalent. Capacity: 1.0 quart (0.95 L).

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson Syn 3 Transmission Fluid or equivalent. Capacity: 0.9-1.0 quart (0.85-0.95 L), fill to level plug.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid (e.g., Harley-Davidson Heavy Duty DOT 4, or reputable brands like Castrol, Valvoline).

Coolant:

Not Applicable (Air-cooled engine)

Primary Chain Tensioner:

Early Twin Cam models (pre-2007) had an automatic tensioner that could wear out. 2008 models typically have the upgraded hydraulic tensioner, but regular inspection for wear is still recommended.

Cam Chain Tensioners:

While the 2008 Twin Cam 96B engine uses a cam chain and tensioners, some internal components can experience wear over time. The manual will detail inspection procedures.

Exhaust Leaks:

Exhaust header gaskets can sometimes fail, leading to leaks and potentially affecting engine performance or sound.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Establishment:

Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903, is an American icon in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.

Fat Boy Introduction:

The Fat Boy model line was introduced in 1990 and quickly became one of Harley-Davidson's most recognizable and popular motorcycles.

2008 Updates:

The 2008 model year saw the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 96B engine, the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, and the move to CAN bus electrical architecture for increased integration and diagnostic capabilities.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Various Harley-Davidson plants)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Fat Boy has consistently been recognized as an iconic American motorcycle, celebrated for its distinctive style and powerful V-twin engine.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for its class, particularly for riders who value classic styling and a relaxed riding experience.

Certification:

Meets all applicable US EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the model year.