Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail owners, technicians, and enthusiasts who perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Positioning:
The Softail line represents Harley-Davidson's classic cruiser styling with a hidden rear suspension system, offering a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern performance. This manual is essential for maintaining the integrity and performance of these iconic machines.
Features Of Bike:
Distinctive rigid frame look with hidden rear shock absorbers, comfortable riding position, powerful V-twin engine, customizable platform.
Specific Systems:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Frame, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Lighting, Instruments, Controls, Bodywork, Wheels, Tires, Audio System (if applicable)
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Detailed coverage of the Twin Cam 103 engine, fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, clutch, and transmission.
Chassis And Suspension:
Comprehensive sections on the Softail frame, front forks (e.g., Showa), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, and steering assembly.
Brakes And Wheels:
In-depth information on front and rear braking systems (calipers, rotors, master cylinders, ABS if equipped), wheel bearing maintenance, and tire specifications.
Electrical And Lighting:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for the charging system, starting system, lighting (headlight, taillight, signals), instruments, and accessories.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, lubrication points, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks.
Engine Repair:
Top-end and bottom-end engine rebuilds, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustments, camshaft installation, oil pump service, cylinder head service.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch adjustment and replacement, transmission gear inspection and repair, primary drive system service, final drive belt inspection and adjustment.
Suspension And Steering:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil changes, rear shock absorber removal and installation, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder rebuild, brake line bleeding and replacement, ABS troubleshooting (if applicable).
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, testing circuits, diagnosing starter and charging system issues, sensor testing, ECM diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for easy navigation.
Quality:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 V-twin
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 4.380 in (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Compression Ratio:
9.6:1 (typical for Twin Cam 103)
Valvetrain:
Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 70-75 HP (subject to tuning and specific model variant)
Torque:
Approx. 98-102 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (subject to tuning and specific model variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) or approved 20W-50 motorcycle oil
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Formula + or equivalent primary lubricant
Crash Test Information:
Motorcycle safety is primarily assessed through component integrity and rider protection. Specific crash test ratings comparable to automobiles are not typically provided by manufacturers for motorcycles. The manual will cover braking system performance and stability.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light, amber incandescent turn signals.
Audio System:
Some Softail models may be equipped with an integrated audio system. The manual will detail its operation and maintenance if present.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on many 2012 Softail models, significantly enhancing braking safety. The manual will cover its diagnostics and service.
Diagnostic Ports:
The manual will detail the location and use of diagnostic connectors for engine management systems.
Initial Service:
First service typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for oil change, primary chain adjustment, and inspection.
Routine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Adjustment:
As needed, typically checked during every 5,000-mile service.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.8 pints (1.3 liters).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, belt drive tension and wear, primary chain tensioner wear (earlier models), fork seal leaks, exhaust system integrity.
Electrical Components:
Occasional issues with charging systems (stator/regulator), battery terminals, and lighting components can occur over time.
Fuel System:
Injector cleaning, fuel filter replacement are standard maintenance items for EFI systems.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, synonymous with American V-twin cruisers and a distinctive riding culture.
Softail Origins:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, revolutionized the cruiser segment with its innovative hidden rear suspension, mimicking the hardtail look while providing a comfortable ride. The FLST and FXST designations represent different frame configurations and styling cues within the Softail family.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., York, Pennsylvania; Milwaukee, Wisconsin).
