Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy is an iconic cruiser, known for its distinctive styling and comfortable riding experience. This manual serves owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair this classic model.
Competition:
Competes with other large-displacement cruisers from brands like Indian Motorcycle and select models from Japanese manufacturers in the cruiser segment. Its retro styling and V-twin engine are key differentiators.
Features:
Distinctive fat front tire, chrome accents, classic styling, comfortable rider ergonomics, powerful V-twin engine, Softail hidden rear suspension.
Engine:
Twin Cam 96B Engine: Disassembly, Assembly, Tuning, Carburetion/Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Lubrication, Cooling (Air-Cooled)
Transmission:
6-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission: Internal Components, Shifting Mechanism, Clutch, Primary Drive
Chassis:
Softail Frame: Frame Inspection, Swingarm, Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Shocks), Wheel Bearings, Steering Head Bearings
Brakes:
Brake System: Hydraulic Front and Rear Brakes, Master Cylinders, Calipers, Brake Lines, Pad Replacement, Rotor Inspection, Bleeding Procedures
Electrical:
Electrical System: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting (Headlight, Taillight, Signals), Ignition Switch, Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Regulator), Starter Motor, Horn, Instrumentation, ECM/PCM Functions
Fuel System:
Fuel System: Fuel Tank, Fuel Lines, Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter, Carburetor (CV Carburetor or EFI System Components)
Exhaust:
Exhaust System: Mufflers, Pipes, Heat Shields, Gaskets
Bodywork:
Bodywork and Trim: Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Mirrors, Lights, Chrome Components
Wheels Tires:
Wheels and Tires: Wheel Removal and Installation, Tire Replacement, Balancing, Spoke Adjustment (if applicable)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable for EFI models)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement, Chain Adjustment (if applicable), Belt Adjustment/Inspection
Major Repairs:
Engine Rebuilds (Top-end and Bottom-end), Transmission Overhaul, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, engine performance issues, transmission problems
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized Harley-Davidson tools for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B 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)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves with hydraulic lifters; 2 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Peak:
92.6 ft-lbs (125.5 Nm) @ 3500 RPM (Manufacturer Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) or Carbureted (CV carburetor, depending on specific sub-variant and market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Cruise Drive Manual Transmission
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 2.226:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/66 ratio (3.15:1)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, 9-plate, wet clutch
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typically includes oil change, filter, primary chain case inspection, and general check).
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.
Belt Inspection:
Inspect belt tension and condition at every service interval. Replace as needed (typical life 40,000-60,000 miles).
Brake Fluid:
Replace brake fluid every 2 years, or as recommended by inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic (or equivalent V-Twin specific SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 US qt. (3.3 L) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle lubricant).
Primary Chain Case Fluid Capacity:
2.2 US qt. (2.1 L)
Common Issues:
Early Twin Cam models can exhibit cam chain tensioner wear (hydraulic tensioners upgraded over years), potential oil leaks from seals, and heat management on air-cooled engines in heavy traffic. Some clutch actuation issues reported. Check for recalls affecting the 2007 model year.
Specific To Softail:
Rear shock absorber maintenance and alignment checks are important for the Softail platform.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an American icon of motorcycling, known for its V-twin engines, distinctive sound, and strong community. The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, mimics the hardtail look with hidden rear suspension.
Fat Boy Origin:
The Fat Boy model itself debuted in 1990 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, popularized by films like 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day'. The 2007 model features the then-new Twin Cam 96B engine and 6-speed transmission.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (assembly and engine production).
Brand Recognition:
Harley-Davidson is consistently ranked as a top motorcycle brand globally for its heritage, lifestyle, and product quality. The Fat Boy is a benchmark for American cruiser styling.
Owner Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson generally receives high owner satisfaction ratings, particularly for its iconic models and community engagement. Specific ratings for the 2007 FLSTF would require specific consumer survey data.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured under Harley-Davidson's internal quality control standards, adhering to relevant US manufacturing and emissions regulations for motorcycles.