Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle Segment
Brand Perception:
Harley-Davidson is synonymous with American V-twin cruiser culture, known for iconic styling, customization, and a loyal rider base.
Key Competitors Era:
Indian Motorcycles, Yamaha V-Star, Honda Shadow, Kawasaki Vulcan, Suzuki Boulevard.
Softail Platform:
The Softail platform is characterized by its classic hardtail look with hidden rear suspension, providing a smooth ride while maintaining vintage aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides factory-level detail essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair these specific Softail models, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, torque specifications, timing, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, oil pump, primary drive.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI) system, fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle body, sensors (MAP, IAT, TPS, O2), fuel lines, fuel tank, EVAP system.
Ignition System:
Ignition module, spark plugs, ignition coils, crank position sensor, troubleshooting ignition faults.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
5-speed transmission, clutch system (operation, adjustment, replacement), primary drive chain, final drive belt, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear ratios, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starter motor, lighting (headlight, taillight, signals), switches, fuses, relays, ECM (Engine Control Module), diagnostics.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork (disassembly, seal replacement, oil levels), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems, brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid replacement and bleeding, brake pad replacement, rotor specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable), gasket replacement, torque specifications.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire sizes, inflation pressures, wheel balancing, rim specifications, spoke tension (if applicable).
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank removal and installation, seat mounting, fairings (if applicable), minor bodywork repairs, cosmetic component replacement.
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, chain lubrication and adjustment (if applicable to specific model variation), brake fluid flush, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, wiring diagram interpretation for fault finding.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems. Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension servicing, brake system repairs.
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific procedures, with part numbers where available.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Diagnostics Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including EFI system analysis and electrical troubleshooting.
Rebuild Coverage:
Full engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, accurate, and schematized wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96B
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 75-80 HP (at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Torque Est:
Approx. 92-96 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/91 AKI
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L) (typical for Softail models)
Length Overall:
Varies by model (e.g., FLSTC approx. 93.7 in, FXST approx. 94.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Varies by model (e.g., FLSTC approx. 64.5 in, FXST approx. 66.2 in)
Ground Clearance:
Varies by model (e.g., FLSTC approx. 4.7 in)
Seat Height:
Varies by model (e.g., FLSTC approx. 26.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Varies by model (e.g., FLSTC approx. 685 lbs, FXST approx. 645 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly listed in product description, but typically around 1160 lbs
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for initial break-in service (oil change, primary chain adjustment, inspection).
Subsequent Service:
Generally every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, for routine maintenance.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent API CJ-4 rated synthetic motorcycle oil.
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (75W-140) or SYN3.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (75W-140) or SYN3. (Note: Some models may share primary and transmission oil, others have separate sumps. Manual will clarify.)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Fork Oil Spec:
Specific weight and quantity per fork leg, specified in the manual (often Harley-Davidson Suspension Oil or equivalent).
Twin Cam 96 Considerations:
While generally reliable, common areas for attention can include primary chain tensioner wear (especially earlier iterations), potential oil leaks around common sealing points, and clutch pack wear under heavy use. The 'B' designation typically indicates a balance shaft for reduced vibration.
Softail Suspension:
Regular inspection of fork seals and rear shock absorber function is recommended. The hidden nature of the rear suspension means it can accumulate road grime, requiring occasional cleaning.
Efi System:
EFI systems are generally robust, but sensor failures (MAP, TPS, O2) can affect performance. Diagnostics are crucial for pinpointing these issues.
Brand Origin:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Iconic Status:
A significant player in motorcycle history, embodying American motorcycle culture.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform was introduced in 1984 with the FXST Softail Standard, designed to mimic the look of a rigid frame while incorporating hidden rear suspension.
Twin Cam Era:
The Twin Cam engine was introduced in 1999, replacing the Evolution engine, and became the backbone of Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup, including the Softail models.
2009-2010 Features:
These model years benefited from the then-current Twin Cam 96B engine, 6-speed transmission, and refined Softail chassis.
Production Location:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are primarily manufactured in the United States.