🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLSTF Fat Boy

Year:

2008

Vehicle Type:

Cruiser Motorcycle

Chassis Code:

FLSTF

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The FLSTF Fat Boy is positioned as a flagship cruiser, renowned for its iconic styling, comfortable ride, and powerful V-twin engine, appealing to riders seeking classic American motorcycle aesthetics with modern performance.

Competitors 2008:

Competes with models like the Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin, and other large-displacement American cruisers from various manufacturers, as well as some Japanese manufacturers' premium cruiser offerings.

Iconic Styling:

Distinctive wide front fork, FL-style front fender, solid disc wheels, and extensive chrome plating are hallmarks of the Fat Boy.

Engine Platform:

Features Harley-Davidson's robust Twin Cam 96 engine, known for its torque and reliability.

Ride Comfort:

Designed for comfortable long-distance riding with a relaxed riding position and effective suspension.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (Specific count not provided in description, but implies comprehensive)

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

High-resolution, printable pages suitable for professional use.

Binding Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital download, binding depends on user printing)

Paper Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital download, paper type depends on user printing)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for the Twin Cam 96 engine.

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, and fuel tank service.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, battery, charging system, and accessories.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system service, caliper overhaul, master cylinder, and fluid replacement.

Suspension:

Front fork and rear shock absorber service, adjustments, and seal replacement.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, and alignment.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender removal/installation, fuel tank mounting, seat service, and accessory fitting.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing service, tire replacement, and balancing.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault codes, and system checks.

Engine Repair:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.

Transmission Repair:

Gearbox disassembly, clutch service, and internal component replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams and diagnostic tools.

Brake System Maintenance:

Bleeding procedures, pad replacement, and rotor service.

Suspension Tuning:

Fork oil changes, seal replacement, and shock absorber adjustment.

Routine Inspections:

Pre-ride checks, inspection points, and safety-related component checks.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capability:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, symptom-to-cause troubleshooting charts, and expected values.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized Harley-Davidson service tools.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree 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)

Torque Peak:

Approximately 92.6 ft-lbs (125.6 Nm) @ 3500 RPM (typical for Twin Cam 96)

Horsepower Peak:

Approximately 70-75 HP (Varies slightly by dyno and tuning, specific factory rating not provided in description)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended

Ignition Type:

High-performance, electronic ignition with spark advance

Oil System:

Dry sump with oil tank separate from the crankcase

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic assist, wet multi-plate

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for each gear.

Final Drive:

Belt drive (46/29T)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

93.1 in. (2365 mm)

Width:

37.4 in. (950 mm)

Height:

48.2 in. (1224 mm)

Wheelbase:

64.2 in. (1630 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 668 lbs (303 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Vehicle specific GVWR is typically not published as a single spec but derived from frame and component ratings)

Payload Capacity:

N/A (Rider and passenger weight limits are typically not stated as a single capacity)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles.

Braking System:

Dual-disc front brakes, single-disc rear brake. ABS was optional or not available on all models/trims for 2008, manual will specify if covered.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail light, and incandescent turn signals.

Chassis Design:

Steel frame and fork construction for rigidity and rider safety.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

No integrated infotainment system or audio as standard on the FLSTF Fat Boy 2008. Audio systems were typically aftermarket or optional accessories.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2008 FLSTF, and its service procedures would be covered if equipped.

Connectivity Features:

No factory connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Typically every 2,500-5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact interval and oil type).

Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:

Important inspection point, often recommended at 1,000 miles and then periodically or at each service.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles, depending on plug type.

Belt Drive Inspection:

Regular inspection for tension and wear, often recommended at 5,000-mile intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends their proprietary SYN3 (synthetic) or equivalent API SG, J20C approved motorcycle oil. Viscosity typically 20W-50.

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson recommends Formula+ or equivalent heavy-duty primary lubricant. Viscosity SAE 50.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4, non-silicone based hydraulic brake fluid.

Fork Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Type E or equivalent suspension fluid (typically SAE 10W).

Primary Chain Tensioner Wear:

A known potential issue with the hydraulic tensioner in Twin Cam engines is wear, which can lead to noise and eventual failure. Upgraded aftermarket tensioners are common.

Cam Chain Tensioner Issues:

While less common on 2008 models which used a hydraulic tensioner, earlier models and some early Twin Cams had issues with cam chain tensioners (especially the plastic shoes). The manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.

Crank Position Sensor:

Potential for the crank position sensor to fail, leading to intermittent starting or stalling.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a deep-rooted heritage in building V-twin motorcycles known for their sound, style, and reliability.

Fat Boy Introduction:

The Fat Boy model was first introduced in 1990, quickly becoming a best-seller and a symbol of Harley-Davidson's revival. Its distinctive styling, inspired by the military's Harley-Davidson Liberator, set it apart.

Flstf Updates Prior To 2008:

Prior to 2008, the Fat Boy received various engine updates, including the introduction of fuel injection and upgrades to the transmission and suspension to meet evolving performance and emissions standards.

Manufacturing Location:

Assembled in York, Pennsylvania, USA, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Harley-Davidson Fat Boy has consistently been recognized for its iconic styling and has been featured in numerous films and popular culture, cementing its status as a classic American motorcycle.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high customer satisfaction for its classic appeal and riding experience, though specific ratings for the 2008 model year require extensive market research.

Emissions Compliance:

The manual will contain information on meeting EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the 2008 model year.