🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Softail

Year:

2004

Chassis Family:

Softail

Engine Family Identifier:

Twin Cam 88B / 95B (depending on specific model variant)

👋 Introduction

Category:

American V-Twin Cruiser

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Competitors:

Other American cruiser manufacturers (e.g., Indian), Japanese cruiser manufacturers (e.g., Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki), European brands (e.g., Triumph).

Engine Design:

Iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin engine architecture known for its torque and distinctive sound.

Ride Quality:

Softail frame design mimics the look of a rigid frame with hidden rear suspension for a classic aesthetic and comfortable ride.

Customization Potential:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their extensive customization options, making a comprehensive service manual invaluable.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Harley-Davidson Softail models for the 2004 model year

Secondary Coverage:

Includes specific variations for models like the Fat Boy, Heritage Softail, Heritage Springer, Night Train, Standard, Springer Softail, Deuce, and Bad Boy (if applicable to 2004 range)

Estimated Pages:

Over 700 pages (based on typical factory manual scope)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Twin Cam 88B/95B engine assembly, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled), fuel injection (EFI), ignition, starting, charging systems

Transmission:

5-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch, primary drive, final drive, gearbox overhaul

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame, swingarm, front fork (including telescopic and Springer variants), rear shock absorbers, wheel bearings, steering head bearings

Brakes:

Front and rear hydraulic disc brake systems, brake caliper service, master cylinders, hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, battery, starter, alternator, ignition control module (ICM), security system, instrumentation, accessory circuits

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, throttle body, diagnostic connectors (e.g., for ECM) and procedures

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat assembly, handlebars, controls, mirrors, fairings/windshields (if equipped), saddlebags, chrome components

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/adjustment, brake fluid flush, chassis lubrication

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Fault code retrieval, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues, component testing

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine internal repairs (piston, rings, valves), transmission rebuilds, fork seal replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component replacement

Assembly And Disassembly:

Step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Digital Binding:

Not applicable (downloadable PDF)

Digital Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

Text Search:

Typically searchable text, allowing for quick location of specific topics and keywords.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves

Engine Displacement Standard:

1450cc (88 cubic inches)

Engine Displacement Optional:

1550cc (95 cubic inches) - often achieved via a 'Screamin' Eagle' upgrade or factory variant

Bore X Stroke 88Ci:

3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)

Bore X Stroke 95Ci:

3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)

Horsepower 88Ci Est:

Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, stock configuration)

Torque 88Ci Est:

Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, stock configuration)

Horsepower 95Ci Est:

Approx. 70-75 HP (at crankshaft, stock configuration)

Torque 95Ci Est:

Approx. 88-92 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, stock configuration)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, Minimum Octane Rating 91 (RON+MON)/2 (AKI)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Varies by model, typically 4.0 - 5.0 gallons

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh, helical gears

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, hydraulically tensioned, with clutch

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 1.125" wide, 132-tooth rear, 32-tooth front pulley

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Est:

64.5 - 67.0 inches (1638 - 1702 mm) depending on model

Seat Height Est:

26.0 - 27.5 inches (660 - 699 mm) unladen, depending on model

Dry Weight Est:

600 - 650 lbs (272 - 295 kg) depending on model

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Est:

1000 - 1050 lbs (454 - 476 kg) depending on model

🛡️ Safety Features

Certification:

Meets or exceeds all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for motorcycles at the time of manufacture.

Braking System:

Dual hydraulic disc front brakes, single hydraulic disc rear brake with braided stainless steel lines (standard on most models).

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail/brake light, amber turn signals, handlebar-mounted indicators.

Security:

Factory installed H-D Smart Security System with hands-free key fob (standard or optional depending on model variant).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional or standard audio systems varied by model. Systems typically included AM/FM radio and CD player with handlebar-mounted controls.

Display:

Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights integrated into the instrument cluster.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many Softail models, providing highway comfort.

Diagnostic Port:

Includes a diagnostic connector for accessing engine control module (ECM) data and error codes using appropriate Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician).

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

First service typically at 1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Subsequent Service:

Subsequent major services typically every 5,000 miles (8000 km) or annually.

Oil Change Interval:

Every 2,500 - 5,000 miles (4000 - 8000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on oil type and riding conditions.

Engine Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic (or equivalent API CI-4 or higher) - check manual for exact variant.

Transmission Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson® Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson specification).

Chassis Lubrication:

Use Harley-Davidson® Premium All Season Grease or equivalent NLGI #2 lithium complex grease for all grease fittings.

Cam Chain Tensioners:

Early Twin Cam models (pre-2007) are known for wear of the hydraulic cam chain tensioners, which can lead to noise or engine damage if not monitored. Upgraded 'Feuling' or 'Screamin' Eagle' kits are common replacements.

Primary Cover Gasket:

Occasional leaks from the primary cover gasket can occur, often due to age or improper torque during installation.

Idle Control Module:

Some EFI models can exhibit rough idling or stalling issues that may be related to the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor or vacuum leaks.

Belt Drive Tension:

Improper drive belt tension can lead to premature wear of the belt, pulleys, or wheel bearings.

📚 Vehicle History

Founding:

Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1903.

Legacy:

Long-standing reputation for building V-twin motorcycles, iconic American brand.

Softail Introduction:

The Softail platform, with its hidden rear suspension, was first introduced in 1983.

Twin Cam Introduction:

The Twin Cam engine series was introduced in 1999, replacing the Evolution engine, and became standard across most Harley-Davidson models by 2000.

2004 Update:

The 2004 model year featured the Twin Cam 88B engine in standard configuration and often the Twin Cam 95B as an option or on higher-trim models, with EFI as standard.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Recognition:

Harley-Davidson is a consistently recognized global brand associated with American lifestyle and freedom.

Model Status:

The Softail platform is a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup, consistently popular with riders worldwide.