🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Dyna

Year:

2008

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential technical resource for owners and independent repair shops working on the 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna motorcycle platform, offering a cost-effective alternative to dealership service.

Competition:

Directly competes with official Harley-Davidson service manuals, providing similar depth of technical information for DIY enthusiasts and independent mechanics.

Features:

Detailed exploded diagrams, step-by-step repair instructions, comprehensive electrical schematics, troubleshooting charts, and maintenance schedules specific to the 2008 Dyna models.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Page Count:

Refer to product listing for exact page count (typically 600-800 pages for comprehensive manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and troubleshooting of the Twin Cam 96 engine and its components, including lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), fuel system (carbureted and fuel injected variants), ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Service and repair of the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, including clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication, and common issues.

Chassis:

Front fork and suspension servicing, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering system maintenance, wheel and tire service, brake system overhaul (front and rear disc brakes), and frame inspection.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for electrical components, lighting systems, ignition system, charging system (alternator and battery), starting system, and accessory circuits.

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, seat servicing, fuel tank maintenance, fender adjustments, and cosmetic component care.

Fuel System Detail:

In-depth coverage of carburetor (Keihin CV 40mm or similar) or Delphi Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems, including component testing, adjustment, and troubleshooting.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, lubrication points, and general upkeep.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and repair recommendations for system failures.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension fork seal replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, and bodywork fixes.

Diagnostics:

Includes procedures for diagnosing electrical faults, engine performance issues, and drivability problems, often with diagnostic codes or symptom analysis.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, often color-coded, wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, essential for diagnosing electrical faults and modifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

The manual will guide users on using standard mechanic's tools and potentially basic diagnostic equipment for electrical systems, but will not typically detail proprietary Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools unless specified.

Manual Type Detail:

This is a comprehensive service and repair manual, designed for technicians and skilled DIY mechanics to perform all aspects of maintenance, diagnosis, and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear viewing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 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:

8.9:1

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) or Carburetor (depending on specific Dyna model variant)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, dual spark plug per cylinder

Valve Train:

Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP (at crank, estimated for the era)

Torque:

Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs (at crank, estimated for the era)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive manual transmission

Optional Transmissions:

N/A (Standard for 2008 Dyna models)

Gear Ratios:

Detailed in manual, typically includes 1st-3.15, 2nd-2.07, 3rd-1.42, 4th-1.14, 5th-0.94, 6th-0.79

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type and capacity (e.g., Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Fluid or equivalent)

Final Drive:

Belt drive

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by Dyna model (e.g., approx. 63.7 inches for Super Glide Custom)

Seat Height:

Varies by Dyna model (e.g., approx. 25.3 inches unladen for Super Glide Custom)

Length:

Varies by Dyna model (e.g., approx. 90.4 inches for Super Glide Custom)

Width:

Varies by Dyna model (e.g., approx. 36.0 inches for Super Glide Custom)

Fuel Capacity:

Typically 4.8 to 5.0 gallons (18.2 to 18.9 L) depending on the specific Dyna model

Dry Weight:

Varies by Dyna model (e.g., approx. 630 lbs for Super Glide Custom)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate and manual

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles are not typically rated by standardized crash test agencies in the same way as cars. Safety relies on rider skill and vehicle design features.

Active Safety:

Front and rear disc brakes with hydraulic actuation. Handlebar controls for critical functions.

Braking System:

Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper, acting on vented discs.

Passive Safety:

Robust frame construction, rider seating position designed for control.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models typically feature a simple analog speedometer and odometer. Higher trim levels might have optional radio or cruise control integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A for this era of motorcycle. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.

Connectivity Features:

N/A. No built-in digital connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

Typically around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for break-in service, including oil and filter change, inspection of primary drive, and general checks.

Regular Maintenance:

Oil changes every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, with regular inspections of tires, brakes, and other critical components every 2,500 miles (4,000 km).

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic, SAE 20W-50)

Primary Chain Case Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Harley-Davidson Formula+)

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Harley-Davidson Formula+)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (typically, refer to manual for confirmation)

Coolant:

N/A (Air-cooled engine)

Tire Pressure:

Refer to manual and tire sidewall for specific recommendations (e.g., front 30-36 PSI, rear 36-40 PSI depending on load)

Common Problems:

Potential for starter clutch issues, early fuel pump failures (on injected models), cam chain tensioner wear (pre-2007 models but relevant for understanding evolution), and exhaust pipe leaks.

Maintenance Focus Areas:

Regular lubrication of the primary drive, proper engine oil level and quality, checking brake pad wear, and ensuring tire pressure is maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.

Evolution:

The Dyna platform, introduced in 1991, represented a shift towards a more modern chassis with rubber isolation for the engine, enhancing rider comfort compared to earlier rigid-mounted engines. The 2008 model year saw continued refinement and the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 96 engine.

Production Era:

The Dyna line was produced from 1991 to 2017, with the 2008 model being a significant year for its powertrain and chassis development.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The Harley-Davidson Dyna platform has received numerous accolades for its styling, V-twin performance, and rider experience over its production run.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for its classic styling and V-twin character, although some owners report specific mechanical concerns addressed by this manual.

Manual Certification:

Not applicable for aftermarket or OEM service manuals in a certification sense; the quality is assessed by its accuracy and comprehensiveness.