Positioning:
The FLSTC Heritage Softail is a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's Softail lineup, renowned for its classic styling that evokes the post-war era, combined with modern V-twin performance. It appeals to riders seeking a comfortable, long-distance cruiser with iconic Harley-Davidson aesthetics.
Competition:
Competes directly with other manufacturers' retro-styled cruisers, such as Indian Motorcycles' Chief models and certain Triumph models, and within Harley-Davidson's own model range, offering a more traditional aesthetic than the more contemporary models.
Features:
Detachable windshield, classic rider seat and passenger pillion, studded leather saddlebags, chrome spoke wheels, tombstone tail light, and the powerful Twin Cam 103B engine.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, overhaul, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for the 2012 Harley-Davidson FLSTC Heritage Softail.
Component Coverage:
Engine, transmission, chassis, electrical system, fuel system, exhaust, suspension, brakes, wheels, tires, and bodywork.
Estimated Pages:
700-900 (typical for comprehensive Harley-Davidson service manuals)
Type:
Service Manual / Workshop Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Twin Cam 103B V-Twin, cylinder head service, piston and ring inspection, crankshaft and connecting rod service, oil pump and cam support plate overhaul, timing procedures, fuel injection (EFI) system diagnostics and repair.
Transmission Systems:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission service, clutch operation and adjustment, gear inspection and replacement, shift drum and forks, mainshaft and countershaft bearing service.
Electrical Systems:
Battery maintenance and testing, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system (ignition module, spark plugs), lighting systems (headlight, taillight, turn signals), starter motor, horn, instrument cluster diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, swingarm and pivot bearing service, front fork overhaul (dampers, springs, seals), rear shock absorber service and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake caliper service, brake pad replacement, brake rotor inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush and bleeding procedures, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped).
Fuel And Exhaust:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump and filter service, throttle body cleaning and inspection, exhaust system inspection and repair, muffler replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, primary chain tensioner inspection, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid level checks, tire pressure checks and adjustments.
Repair Procedures:
Complete engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission rebuild, fork seal replacement, wheel bearing service, brake system overhauls, electrical component replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, error code interpretation (e.g., DTC codes), electrical system fault finding.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, ensuring clear text and legible diagrams. Searchable text functionality is standard for PDF manuals.
Printability:
Printable pages, allowing users to create physical copies of sections or the entire manual for workshop use.
Binding:
N/A (PDF format does not involve binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (PDF format does not involve paper type)
Engine Type:
Twin Cam 103B V-Twin, air-cooled
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm)
Torque Peak:
Approximately 99.5 ft-lb (135 Nm) @ 3,500 rpm (Manufacturer's estimate for 2012 Twin Cam 103B)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 91.
Crash Testing:
Motorcycles are not subject to the same crash testing standards as automobiles. Safety relies on rider skill and adherence to operational guidelines.
Braking System:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber incandescent turn signals.
Audio System:
Optional or standard (depending on specific trim/packages) AM/FM radio with CD player or auxiliary input, typically with handlebar-mounted controls. Speakers integrated into fairing or saddlebags.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on both wheels for enhanced stopping power and stability.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics via the diagnostic port (e.g., J1850 VPW) allowing for connection of diagnostic tools to read fault codes and monitor sensor data.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check primary chaincase oil level and condition more frequently.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or 6 months. Automatic tensioner updates may alter this interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 (or equivalent API CI-4 rated SAE 20W-50)
Primary Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle lubricant)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-4 gear lubricant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to specific Harley-Davidson recommendations for compatibility)
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Early Twin Cam models (pre-2007) had hydraulic tensioners prone to wear. The 2012 Twin Cam 103B typically features an improved automatic tensioner, but wear can still occur over time.
Fuel Line Connectors:
Some riders have reported issues with plastic quick-disconnect fittings on fuel lines becoming brittle.
Rear Brake Drag:
Occasional reports of rear brake calipers dragging, potentially due to caliper piston sticking or improper adjustment.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer synonymous with freedom, rebellion, and a distinctive V-twin sound and style. The brand has a rich history of innovation and building a passionate community.
Heritage Softail Line:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, features concealed rear suspension, mimicking the look of a hardtail frame. The Heritage Softail (FLSTC) variant has consistently represented classic styling cues, evolving through engine displacements and updates while maintaining its retro appeal.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
