🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Dyna

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

FXD (specific model variants will have sub-codes)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Harley-Davidson Dyna series in 2008 represented a significant evolution in the brand's cruiser lineup, blending traditional styling with modern performance and a focus on a responsive, agile riding experience, often referred to as a 'muscle cruiser'.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other American V-twin cruisers and some Japanese metric cruisers offering similar displacement and performance characteristics. The Dyna's blend of rider comfort and sporty handling set it apart within the Harley-Davidson range.

Key Features:

The 2008 Dyna models were characterized by the introduction of the Twin Cam 96 engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, a robust chassis designed for improved handling, and often featured a more aggressive riding posture compared to other Harley-Davidson families.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service and repair for all Harley-Davidson Dyna models produced in 2008.

Page Count:

Estimated 800-1200 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Twin Cam 96, fuel injection, ignition, cooling), Transmission (6-speed Cruise Drive), Drivetrain (primary drive, belt drive, final drive), Chassis (frame, suspension, steering, wheels, tires), Brakes (front and rear systems, ABS if equipped), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, charging system, starter, ignition, fuel injection controls, diagnostics), Fuel System (fuel tank, fuel pump, injectors, emissions controls), Exhaust System, Bodywork (fenders, tanks, seats, controls, fairings), Instruments and Gauges.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting, diagnostics (including DTC codes), repair procedures for all major components, disassembly and reassembly instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, wiring schematic interpretation, component testing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees for common and complex issues.

Troubleshooting Depth:

Detailed troubleshooting charts are provided for common electrical and mechanical faults, guiding technicians through a systematic approach to identify and resolve issues.

Electrical Schematics Detail:

Includes detailed, high-quality wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, color-coded for ease of use and tracing circuits.

Component Rebuilds Covered:

Engine (top end, bottom end, cylinder heads), transmission (gear sets, clutch, primary drive), suspension forks, brake calipers, and other major assemblies.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans for clarity.

Print Quality:

Printable at high resolution, suitable for professional use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Manual Completeness:

This manual is a comprehensive factory service manual, designed to cover all aspects of repair and maintenance for the 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna models. It is not a condensed or specific chapter manual.

Searchability:

The PDF format allows for full text searching, enabling users to quickly find specific topics, part numbers, or procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96 (1584cc)

Bore X Stroke:

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

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1 (typical)

Horsepower Rating:

Estimated 70-75 HP at rear wheel (varies by model variant and tuning).

Torque Rating:

Estimated 86-90 lb-ft at rear wheel (varies by model variant and tuning).

Fuel System:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) on most models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline, 91 octane minimum recommended.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change.

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic or equivalent motorcycle-specific 20W-50 engine oil.

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with individual spark plug firing.

Emissions Control Features:

Catalytic converter (on most models for emissions compliance), evaporative emissions control system (EVAP).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive Manual Transmission

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.311, 2nd: 6.460, 3rd: 4.781, 4th: 3.885, 5th: 3.322, 6th: 2.790 (typical, refer to manual for exact ratios for specific models).

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson transmission fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-140 synthetic gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 24 US fluid ounces (0.71 liters).

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, 34/46 tooth sprockets

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 32/66 tooth pulleys (3 inch wide belt).

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Varies by specific Dyna model (e.g., Super Glide, Street Bob, Low Rider). Typically around 90-93 inches.

Wheelbase:

Varies by specific Dyna model. Typically around 64-65 inches.

Ground Clearance:

Varies by specific Dyna model. Typically around 4.75-5.5 inches.

Seat Height:

Varies by specific Dyna model. Typically around 25-27 inches (unladen).

Dry Weight:

Varies by specific Dyna model. Typically around 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1000-1050 lbs (454-477 kg).

Fuel Capacity:

Typically 4.8 US gallons (18.2 liters).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles are not subject to the same formal crash test ratings as cars. Safety focus is on handling, braking, and rider control.

Active Features:

Disc brakes front and rear, optional ABS on some models. Responsive suspension and steering geometry for stability.

Passive Features:

Robust frame construction, integrated lighting systems, secure rider seating position.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models often featured a simple speedometer and odometer. Higher trim levels or optional accessories could include AM/FM radio, CB radio, and intercom systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) for smoother throttle response. Optional ABS on select models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily mechanical and electrical systems. No integrated smartphone connectivity or GPS as standard.

Diagnostic System:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) with the ability to retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) via the speedometer display or specialized diagnostic tools.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

First service typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Subsequent Service:

Subsequent services typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Specific checks include engine oil and filter, transmission fluid, primary chain tension, brake fluid, tire condition, and electrical systems.

Engine Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic or equivalent 20W-50 motorcycle oil. Refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on ambient temperature.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 (for hydraulic disc brakes). Refer to manual for specific recommendations and flushing intervals.

Coolant Spec:

Not applicable (air-cooled engine).

Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Oil or equivalent SAE 90-140 gear oil.

Common Issues 2008 Dyna:

Primary chain tensioner wear (hydraulic tensioner), voltage regulator failure (early models), potential exhaust header pipe leaks, rear fender strut cracking (under heavy load or modification), wheel bearing wear.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Harley-Davidson Part Number 63796-77B or equivalent (check for specific model variants).

Front Tire Size:

Commonly 100/90-19 or 90/90-21 (depending on model).

Rear Tire Size:

Commonly 150/80-16 or 160/70-17 (depending on model).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

N/A for most Harley-Davidson motorcycles; wheels are typically hub-mounted with specific axle specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of producing V-twin motorcycles synonymous with freedom and the open road.

Model Evolution:

The Dyna platform was introduced in 1991, designed to offer a more contemporary ride than the traditional Softail models, utilizing a rubber-mounted engine for reduced vibration. The 2008 model year marked a significant upgrade with the standard Twin Cam 96 engine and 6-speed transmission across the range.

Production Location:

United States (typically Harley-Davidson facilities in York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for individual model years are rare for motorcycles, the Dyna platform generally received praise for its performance upgrades in 2008, particularly the integration of the Twin Cam 96 and 6-speed transmission, which improved its competitive standing and rider satisfaction.