Positioning:
Essential resource for Harley-Davidson owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth service and repair information for the iconic Softail platform.
Competitors:
Other aftermarket repair manuals may exist, but this manual directly replicates the information used by authorized Harley-Davidson technicians, ensuring unparalleled accuracy and completeness.
Key Feature 1:
Model-specific and comprehensive coverage, eliminating guesswork.
Key Feature 2:
Factory-level detail for all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic procedures.
Key Feature 3:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Key Feature 4:
Authentic resource used by dealership technicians.
Engine:
Twin Cam 88 & 88B, including disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and tuning
Transmission:
5-speed Cruise Drive transmission, lubrication, internal components, clutch, primary drive
Fuel System:
Carbureted (CV carburetors) and Fuel Injection (EFI) systems, fuel pump, injectors, sensors
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges, diagnostics, wiring diagrams
Brakes:
Front and rear braking systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front forks (including Showa and possibly aftermarket upgrades), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, bearings
Frame And Body:
Frame inspection, bodywork repair, fenders, fuel tank, seat mounting, fairings (if applicable to specific models)
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire pressure, wheel removal/installation
Exhaust System:
Exhaust component inspection, gasket replacement, heat shields
Controls:
Handlebar controls, throttle cables, brake levers, clutch levers, foot controls
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine cooling principles and maintenance
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, drive belt adjustment, chain maintenance (if applicable to specific models, though Softails are belt drive)
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly of internal components
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete teardown, repair, and reassembly of the 5-speed gearbox
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for electrical faults using wiring diagrams and test procedures
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, fluid flush and bleeding, caliper service
Suspension Repair:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, linkage lubrication
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding, fuel injector testing
Wheel Bearing Service:
Wheel bearing inspection, repacking, and replacement
Tire Mounting Balancing:
Guidance on proper tire installation and balancing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects required by dealership technicians
Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting charts and diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Rebuild Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Electrical Schematics:
Includes detailed, factory-level wiring diagrams for all circuits
Torque Specifications:
Provides all essential torque values for fasteners and critical components
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88 / Twin Cam 88B
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (varies by specific model and tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 75-85 lb-ft (varies by specific model and tuning)
Fuel Delivery Carbureted:
Keihin CV 40mm carburetor (typically)
Fuel Delivery Efi:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with single or dual injectors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (87 AKI) recommended
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motor Oil 20W-50 or equivalent API SG or higher
Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 - 65.5 inches (1638 - 1664 mm) depending on specific Softail model (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage Classic, Springer Softail)
Seat Height:
Approx. 25 - 27 inches (635 - 686 mm) unladen
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650 - 700 lbs (295 - 318 kg) depending on model
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1000 - 1100 lbs (454 - 499 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 - 5.0 US gallons (15.1 - 18.9 liters) depending on tank size
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are generally not subject to the same standardized crash test ratings as automobiles. Safety is primarily addressed through design and rider training.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper (standard). ABS was not widely available on these models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED or incandescent tail/brake lights, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability and rider safety.
Ride Stability:
Low center of gravity and long wheelbase contribute to stable handling.
Audio System:
Optional audio systems were available, often aftermarket or dealer-installed. Manual may cover wiring for factory units if equipped.
Gauges:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel gauge, voltage meter, and indicator lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard or widely available on these model years.
Smart Device Integration:
Not applicable for this era of motorcycles.
Initial Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) - includes engine oil/filter change, primary chaincase oil check, inspection of all fasteners and controls.
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Chaincase Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Drive Belt Tension Check:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 heavy-duty hydraulic fluid
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or SAE 50 transmission lubricant
Common Issue 1:
Cam chain tensioner wear (especially on early Twin Cam 88s, though the manual will detail inspection and replacement)
Common Issue 2:
Carburetor tuning issues (CV carburetors may require adjustment for altitude or modifications)
Common Issue 3:
Battery maintenance and charging system checks are critical for reliable starting.
Common Issue 4:
Wheel bearing wear, especially with high mileage or improper lubrication.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform, characterized by its hidden rear suspension that mimics a hardtail look, was introduced in 1983. It has evolved significantly over the years.
Twin Cam Introduction:
The Twin Cam 88 engine, featured in these models, was introduced in 1999, replacing the Evolution engine and representing a significant engineering advancement for Harley-Davidson.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA and York, Pennsylvania, USA
Key Models Covered:
FLSTC (Heritage Classic), FLSTF (Fat Boy), FLSTN (Deluxe), FXST (Standard), FXSTB (Night Train), FXSTS (Springer Softail), FXSTSI (Springer Softail with Fuel Injection)
