Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle, custom styling
Target Audience:
Riders seeking distinctive styling, a powerful V-twin engine, and a relaxed cruising experience.
Competitors 2008:
Other Harley-Davidson Softail models, Indian Chief, some Japanese cruisers with V-twin engines (e.g., Honda VTX series, Yamaha Roadliner).
Styling:
Low-slung profile, 'finned' engine styling, forward-mounted controls, bobtail rear fender, 'Rocker' name indicative of its styling cues.
Engine:
Harley-Davidson's established Twin Cam 96B V-twin engine, known for its torque and rumble.
Frame:
Softail chassis design, providing a hardtail appearance with concealed rear suspension for a smoother ride.
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission for improved highway cruising and fuel economy.
Primary Coverage:
Repair and Overhaul of Harley-Davidson FXCW Rocker Softail
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
Twin Cam 96B (1584cc) engine, including top end, bottom end, lubrication, fuel and ignition systems
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch, primary drive, final drive
Chassis:
Softail frame, suspension (front fork, rear shocks), steering, wheel bearings
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic circuits, components, and bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, security system (H-D Smart Security System)
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, heat shields, and emissions control components
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, side covers, fairings (if applicable), and trim components
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake service, tire maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and suspension overhaul procedures
Adjustments:
Clutch adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment
Diagnostics:
Fuel system diagnostics, ignition system diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Scope:
From basic fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system troubleshooting
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B V-twin
Displacement:
1584cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.3 mm x 111.3 mm)
Valvetrain:
Pushrod-actuated overhead valves, 2 valves per cylinder
Timing System:
Camshaft driven by chain, hydraulic tensioners
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque Est:
Approx. 85-90 ft-lbs (at crankshaft)
Induction:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 gallons (18.9 L)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Clutch:
Clutch type: Wet, multi-plate, hydraulically actuated
Primary Drive:
Belt drive, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.407, 3rd: 4.774, 4th: 3.750, 5th: 3.215, 6th: 2.790 (Typical for this transmission)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, Jiffy Lube (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, Jiffy Lube (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 85W-140)
Safety Certification:
Meets applicable US EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements.
Brakes:
Hydraulically actuated disc brakes, front and rear
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, front and rear turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm
Suspension:
Telescopic front fork, rear coil-over shock absorbers
Features:
Primarily focused on core motorcycle functions. Optional accessory radio/audio systems may have been available.
Features:
ABS not standard on most 2008 models, but might have been an option or available on specific trims.
Features:
Basic motorcycle electrical system. No modern Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity natively.
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (on some models or as an accessory), LCD display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, and warning lights.
System:
H-D Smart Security System (optional or standard depending on trim), utilizing a proximity key fob.
Initial Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Primary Chain Case Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (or equivalent V-Twin motorcycle specific SAE 20W-50 oil meeting API CI-4)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter change
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 US quart (0.95 L)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 US quarts (2.4 L)
Engine:
Potential for cam chain tensioner wear (pre-2007 models were more prone, but inspection is wise), oil leaks from primary or transmission seals.
Electrical:
Wiring harness chafing in certain areas, battery maintenance and connections.
Suspension:
Rear shock absorbers may require occasional adjustment or replacement based on rider weight and load.
Fuel System:
Check for fuel line integrity, occasional issues with fuel pump or injector clogging if fuel is not kept clean.
Brand Identity:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, known for V-twin engines and a strong culture.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail concept, featuring hidden rear shocks for a rigid look, was introduced in 1983.
Rocker Introduction:
The FXCW Rocker was introduced for the 2008 model year, as part of the Softail family, designed with a unique, raked-out look.
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)