Description:
The Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy is an iconic cruiser known for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and powerful V-twin engine. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair of this classic motorcycle.
Comparison:
Competes with other large-displacement cruiser motorcycles from brands like Indian and select Japanese manufacturers, emphasizing classic styling and a substantial road presence.
Features:
Retro styling, comfortable ergonomics, large-displacement V-twin engine, solid wheels, and commanding presence.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Primary Drive, Clutch, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front and Rear), Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front and Rear), Steering
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), Security System
Body And Trim:
Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Mirrors, Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Routine checks, Lubrication, Fluid changes, Filter replacements, Belt adjustments
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, Transmission repair, Brake system overhaul, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, Symptom analysis, Common problem solutions
Diagnostics:
EFI system diagnostics, Ignition system testing, Sensor readings
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B V-twin
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Torque Peak:
92.6 ft-lb @ 3,500 RPM (125.5 Nm @ 3,500 RPM)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 octane rating or higher recommended
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent API GL-5 rated SAE 20W50)
Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change
Ignition System:
High-performance, capacitor discharge electronic ignition with digital spark advance
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
1.0 US quart (0.95 Liters)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices. Specific crash ratings are not applicable in the same way as automobiles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Dual front discs, single rear disc.
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, Incandescent turn signals.
Security System:
Factory-installed H-D Smart Security System with proximity-based fob.
Infotainment System:
Base model typically does not feature integrated infotainment beyond essential instrumentation. Audio systems and connectivity are often aftermarket additions or available as options on higher trims.
Driver Assistance:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an optional feature.
Connectivity:
Limited native connectivity. Bluetooth audio and smartphone integration are typically aftermarket upgrades.
Instrumentation Features:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltage meter, oil pressure indicator, ABS indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Harley-Davidson Premium Synthetic Brake Fluid
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50)
Fork Oil:
Specify type and weight as per manual (e.g., Harley-Davidson Type E or Type B fork oil)
Common Issues:
Potential for primary chain tensioner wear (especially earlier Twin Cam models, though addressed in later revisions), clutch cable adjustment needs, exhaust heat issues, and normal wear-and-tear on consumables like tires and brake pads.
Oil Filter:
Harley-Davidson 63731-35A (or equivalent aftermarket filter like Screamin' Eagle 26093-08A)
Air Filter:
Refer to specific air cleaner assembly. Common Harley-Davidson part: 29043-08 (for Ventilator intake)
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and most iconic American motorcycle manufacturers, synonymous with freedom, customization, and a distinctive V-twin rumble.
Fat Boy Introduction:
The Fat Boy was first introduced in 1990, inspired by the styling of motorcycles from the 1940s, particularly the Harley-Davidson FL Hydra-Glide. Its defining features have always been its wide front fork, large headlight, and solid aluminum disc wheels.
2008 Updates:
The 2008 model year saw the FLSTF continue with the Twin Cam 96B engine and the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, solidifying its position as a core model in Harley-Davidson's Softail lineup. Styling cues like the tank badge and color options often evolve annually.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (assembly)
