Market Segment:
Cruiser / Classic Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FLSTN Softail Deluxe owners and independent motorcycle repair shops.
Competitors:
Indian Chief Classic, Victory Kingpin, other cruiser motorcycles with similar styling and displacement.
Styling:
Retro styling, extensive chrome, whitewall tires, fishtail exhaust (typical).
Ride Experience:
Comfortable touring and cruising, iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin rumble.
Platform:
Softail frame with hidden rear suspension, providing a rigid swingarm look.
Engine System:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the Twin Cam 103 engine.
Fuel System:
EFI system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, throttle body, and diagnostic procedures.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, and timing.
Transmission System:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch assembly, primary drive, and secondary drive (belt drive).
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter, battery), and all electrical components.
Suspension System:
Front telescopic forks (including oil change and seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, and swingarm.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, and wheel bearings.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank, seat, fairings, and chrome accessories.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, fault code identification (if applicable via diagnostic tools).
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, belt tensioning, and lubrication points.
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuild, bottom-end overhaul, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustments.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch service, gear inspection, bearing replacement, and primary/secondary drive maintenance.
Brake Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, and fuse/relay checks.
Suspension Overhaul:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil level and type specification, shock absorber replacement.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire removal and installation, balancing.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Harley-Davidson specific service tools required for various procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Detailed, in-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees for systematic problem resolution.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Specifications Data:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and fluid capacities for all major components.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam
Engine Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
45-degree V-twin, air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV) with pushrods, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 78 hp @ 5000 rpm (est.)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 96 ft-lbs @ 3500 rpm (est.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gal (18.9 L)
Crash Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles; focus is on design and component integrity).
Brakes:
Dual-piston caliper front and rear, optional ABS.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail/brake light, bullet turn signals.
Frame Design:
Steel, longitudinal member, under-seat, tri-section.
Ergonomics:
Designed for comfortable rider control and stability.
First Service:
1000 miles or 1 month (whichever comes first) - Includes engine oil/filter change, primary chain tensioner check, belt tension check, and general inspection.
Subsequent Services:
Every 5000 miles or 6 months - Includes engine oil/filter change, primary chain tensioner check, belt tension check, spark plug inspection, and detailed inspection of all systems.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 SYN3 (synthetic) or equivalent motorcycle oil. Capacity approx. 4.0 US qt (3.8 L) with filter.
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission Lubricant. Capacity approx. 1.0 US qt (0.95 L).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission Lubricant. Capacity approx. 2.8 US qt (2.65 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for ABS models) or DOT 5 (for non-ABS models, check specific manual data).
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Early models had hydraulic tensioners that could wear out, leading to noise or chain issues. Updated designs are available. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to starting problems or stalling. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can wear over time, leading to wobble or noise. Regular inspection and lubrication are crucial.
Belt Drive Tension:
Improper tension can lead to premature belt wear or noise. The manual specifies correct tensioning procedures.
Brand Origins:
Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an icon of American motorcycle manufacturing.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, simulates the appearance of a hardtail frame with concealed rear suspension.
Flstn Introduction:
The FLSTN model, often characterized by its nostalgic styling, was introduced to cater to riders seeking a classic aesthetic.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
Key Updates 2011:
The 2011 model year saw the Twin Cam 103 engine as standard for many touring and Softail models, offering increased displacement and torque over the previous Twin Cam 96.