Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser, Iconic American Motorcycle
Competitors 2009:
Indian Chief, Custom Choppers, Other Harley-Davidson Softail models.
Fat Boy Identity:
Distinctive wide front tire, large chrome components, fat custom styling, comfortable riding position.
Coverage:
Maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical systems, engine, transmission, chassis, bodywork.
Page Count:
Estimated 500+ pages (typical for this type of manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine System:
Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System (Air), Exhaust System, Engine Disassembly & Assembly, Top End Rebuild, Bottom End Rebuild, Piston & Rings, Valve Train.
Transmission System:
Clutch, Primary Drive, Transmission Case, Gear Sets, Shifter Mechanism, Final Drive (Belt).
Chassis System:
Frame, Front Suspension (Forks), Rear Suspension (Shocks), Steering System, Wheel Bearings, Swingarm, Brakes (Front & Rear), Tires & Wheels.
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Starting System, Lighting (Headlight, Taillight, Signals), Ignition Switch, Wiring Diagrams, ECM (Engine Control Module), Sensors, Instrument Cluster, Horn.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Mirrors, Footpegs, Exhaust Shields, Chrome Components, Decals.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement, Brake Pad Inspection/Replacement, Tire Pressure Checks, Chain/Belt Adjustment (if applicable, though Fat Boy is belt drive), Lubrication Points.
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Suspension Fork Seal Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Starter Motor Repair, Stator Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Troubleshooting, Engine Performance Issues, Starting Problems, Running Problems, Fuel Delivery Issues.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 V-Twin
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Torque:
Approx. 92.6 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (factory spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
High-performance ignition module
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change
Oil Type Recommendation:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 or equivalent API CI-4 rated synthetic motorcycle oil.
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles generally not subject to automotive crash testing standards)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Available ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as an option on some models/trims.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber incandescent front turn signals, self-canceling rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, rigid backbone and downtube.
Initial Service:
Approx. 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil change, filter, inspection of various components.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual, typically around 10,000 - 20,000 miles, depending on plug type and conditions.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to specific Harley-Davidson recommendations for front and rear systems)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson genuine front fork oil or equivalent damping fluid with appropriate viscosity (e.g., 10W).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, drive belt, wheel bearings. Battery life can vary.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Charging system components (stator, regulator/rectifier) can be prone to failure over time, especially with age and high mileage.
Engine Vibrations:
Characteristic of V-twins; ensure engine mounts are in good condition to mitigate excessive vibration transfer.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Harley-Davidson 63796-77A (verify for specific model year changes)
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an American icon renowned for its V-twin motorcycles, cruiser styling, and a deep-rooted culture.
Softail Platform:
The Softail line, introduced in 1983, is characterized by its hidden rear suspension, providing a hardtail look with modern comfort.
Fat Boy Introduction:
The Fat Boy (FLSTF) was introduced in 1990, quickly becoming one of Harley-Davidson's most recognizable and popular models, inspired by post-war motorcycles.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson facilities)
