🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLSTF Fat Boy

Year:

2005

Sub Model:

Fat Boy ST

Vin Decoder Note:

VIN position 10 typically indicates the model year. For 2005, this is '5'.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy is a classic cruiser renowned for its distinctive styling, chrome accents, and comfortable ride. Positioned as a lifestyle motorcycle, it appeals to riders seeking iconic American V-twin performance and a relaxed cruising experience. The 'ST' designation often implies specific styling or comfort features for the era.

Competitive Analysis:

In 2005, the Fat Boy competed with other large-displacement cruiser motorcycles from brands like Indian, and to a lesser extent, Japanese manufacturers offering similar V-twin styling and comfort, such as Yamaha's V-Star series and Honda's Shadow series, though the Fat Boy's authentic Harley-Davidson heritage and V-twin character provided a strong differentiation.

Key Features:

Iconic styling with wide front forks and tire, Fat Boy badging, chrome-laden engine and components, comfortable rider triangle, powerful V-twin engine, classic cruiser ergonomics, solid ride quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete Service, Repair, and Workshop Manual

Page Count:

Approximately 800-1000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory manual, exact count varies by edition)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Twin Cam 88B), Fuel System (carbureted), Ignition System, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, charging, starting, lighting), Drive Train (primary, transmission, final drive), Suspension (front fork, rear shocks), Brakes (front and rear, hydraulic), Clutch, Wheels and Tires, Frame, Bodywork, Controls, Tools and Special Tools

Systems Covered Extended:

Fuel delivery (carburetor), intake, exhaust, cooling (air), lubrication, ignition timing, starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, regulator), battery, lighting circuits (headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals), horn, instrumentation, chassis, swingarm, bearings, steering head, wheel alignment, tire pressure, brake system hydraulics, caliper service, master cylinder service, clutch hydraulic system, controls (throttle, clutch, brake levers, shifter, footpegs), rider ergonomics, seat, handlebars, fenders, fuel tank, side covers, electrical connectors, fuses, relays.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Complete Disassembly and Reassembly, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Service, Electrical System Diagnosis, Suspension Adjustments, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Carburetor Tuning and Rebuild, Clutch Adjustment and Replacement, Cooling System Service (if applicable, though typically air-cooled), Exhaust System Maintenance, Frame Inspections, Bodywork Repair and Adjustment

Procedures Included Extended:

Engine tuning, carburetor cleaning and jetting, spark plug replacement, oil and filter changes, air filter maintenance, chain and belt tension adjustment, brake pad replacement, brake bleeding, tire mounting and balancing, wheel truing (spoked wheels), fork oil change, shock absorber inspection and replacement, clutch cable adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, headstock bearing adjustment, battery testing and charging, troubleshooting electrical faults using multimeter and wiring diagrams, diagnostic fault codes (if applicable via accessory tools), engine compression testing, valve adjustment (if applicable, though Twin Cam engines typically have shim-under-bucket with no adjustment required unless work is done), troubleshooting starting issues, troubleshooting charging system failures, exhaust system component inspection and replacement, seat mounting and removal, handlebar installation and adjustment.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, schematics, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing. Clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder

Engine Displacement:

1449 cc (88 cubic inches)

Engine Designation:

Twin Cam 88B

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP (estimated, factory figures often conservative)

Torque:

Approx. 86 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (estimated)

Fuel System Type:

Carburetor (Harley-Davidson Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection - ESPFI also available on some models, but 2005 Fat Boy typically carb'd)

Carburetor Model:

Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm

Fuel Requirement:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Balancing System:

Internal balancer shaft (Twin Cam 88B designation indicates balance)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Gear Ratios:

First: 9.25, Second: 6.52, Third: 4.74, Fourth: 3.74, Fifth: 3.15 (Typical for this era, specific ratios may vary slightly)

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, hydraulic actuation

Final Drive:

Belt Drive (49-tooth pulley, 32-tooth final drive sprocket)

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

93.9 inches (2385 mm)

Wheelbase:

64.0 inches (1626 mm)

Seat Height:

27.1 inches (688 mm) (Unladen)

Ground Clearance:

5.1 inches (130 mm)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

4.0 gallons (15.1 L)

Front Tire Size:

130/90-16 67B

Rear Tire Size:

150/80B16 71H

Wheel Type:

Chrome Laced Steel Wheels

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

N/A (Motorcycle specific hubs)

Dry Weight:

635 lbs (288 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

1050 lbs (476 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles are not subject to standard NHTSA crash test ratings. Safety relies on rider skill, vehicle design, and active/passive safety features.

Active Features:

Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), responsive throttle and clutch controls, stable chassis geometry.

Passive Features:

Heavy-duty frame, forward controls for stable riding position, headlight and taillight systems, turn signals, horn.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic, often no integrated infotainment system beyond an analog speedometer and odometer. Some models may have optional accessory radio/audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service Interval:

1000 miles (1600 km) or 12 months

Subsequent Service Interval:

Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months thereafter

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic SAE 20W-50, or equivalent premium motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Transmission Oil (Formula +) or equivalent

Transmission Oil Capacity:

1.0 US quart (0.95 Liters)

Primary Chain Case Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Primary Fluid (Formula +) or equivalent

Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:

2.6 US quarts (2.5 Liters)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (preferred for Harley-Davidson, check specific service bulletin for alternatives)

Known Issues:

Early Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) can be prone to cam chain tensioner wear, requiring replacement with updated hydraulic tensioners. Primary drive chain shoe wear is also a common maintenance item. Carburetor tuning may require periodic adjustment due to ethanol in fuel. Oil leaks from the primary or transmission can sometimes occur due to seal wear.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Harley-Davidson 63796-77A (or equivalent aftermarket)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Harley-Davidson boasts a rich history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, V-twin engines, and a distinctive sound and feel that has cultivated a loyal global following.

Model Evolution:

The Fat Boy model, introduced in 1990, quickly became an icon of the Harley-Davidson Softail line. It is characterized by its large front wheel and tire, polished stainless steel or chrome elements, and a 'fat' aesthetic. The 2005 model represents a mature iteration of the design, featuring the Twin Cam 88B engine.

Production Years:

1990 - Present (with continuous updates)

Manufacturing Location:

United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin assembly plants)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Fat Boy is widely recognized as an iconic American motorcycle and a symbol of freedom and cruising culture. It has received numerous accolades and features in popular media for its distinctive styling and performance.