🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

VRSCDA Night Rod

Year:

2008

Product Type:

Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser / Power Cruiser

Target Audience:

Riders seeking a performance-oriented, stylish cruiser with a contemporary edge, distinct from traditional Harley-Davidson styling.

Competitors 2008:

Includes models from Yamaha (V-Max, Road Star Warrior), Honda (VTX series), Suzuki (Boulevard M series), and potentially some European performance cruisers. The VRSCDA's liquid-cooled engine and sportier handling set it apart.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasizes a modern, aggressive aesthetic with a powerful, liquid-cooled V-twin engine, distinguishing it from Harley's air-cooled lineup. Often referred to as a 'custom-styled' or 'performance' cruiser.

Styling:

Features a distinctive 'drag bike' inspired profile, often with a raked-out front end, low seat height, and custom-look wheels.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Chassis:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Frame Bodywork:

Yes

Wheels Tires:

Yes

Maintenance Procedures:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Revolution Max Engine family (V-twin, liquid-cooled)

Powertrain Details:

Engine assembly, disassembly, internal components, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emission controls.

Drivetrain:

Clutch, transmission (5-speed), final drive (belt).

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, ignition system, sensors, ECM (Engine Control Module), wiring harnesses, diagnostic connectors (e.g., J1850 VPW).

Chassis:

Frame construction, steering, front fork assembly (VRSC-specific inverted forks), rear swingarm, wheel bearings, final drive assembly.

Suspension:

Front fork servicing (oil change, seal replacement, spring rates), rear shock absorber replacement and adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, caliper servicing, brake pad replacement, master cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures, ABS (if equipped on specific sub-models).

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure testing, EVAP system (if applicable).

Bodywork:

Fairing removal and installation, fenders, fuel tank cover, seat removal, instrument cluster, lighting components.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, tire pressure checks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) lookup and interpretation, sensor testing, component testing using multimeters and diagnostic tools.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul (piston, rings, valves), cylinder head service, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuilding, fork seal replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Adjustment Procedures:

Throttle cable adjustment, clutch cable adjustment, idle speed adjustment, chain tension (if applicable to specific models, though belt drive is common), suspension adjustments.

Electrical Repair:

Wiring harness repair, component replacement (starter, alternator, sensors), troubleshooting electrical faults.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized Harley-Davidson tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic steps. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams. Searchable content for quick access to information.

Recommendation:

Printable, allowing users to create a physical copy for workshop use. Best printed on quality paper for durability.

Ideal Binding:

Comb binding or spiral binding for lay-flat use in a workshop environment.

Recommended Paper:

Glossy or semi-gloss paper for diagrams and images, heavier weight paper for durability.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

1250 Revolution (Revolution Max derivative)

Configuration:

V-twin, 60-degree, liquid-cooled

Displacement:

1247 cc (76.1 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

100 mm x 95 mm (3.94 in x 3.74 in)

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, shim-over-bucket adjustment

Horsepower Est:

125 hp @ 8000 rpm (approximate, factory spec)

Torque Est:

86 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm (approximate, factory spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), dual throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Unleaded premium gasoline, minimum octane rating 91

Type:

Liquid-cooled

Coolant Type:

Harley-Davidson Coolant or equivalent antifreeze/water mixture (50/50 ratio).

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or approved equivalent.

Oil Capacity:

Refer to manual for exact capacity with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios documented in the manual. Typically designed for strong acceleration and comfortable cruising.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic clutch actuation

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 140-tooth belt, 32-tooth front pulley, 70-tooth rear sprocket

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant SAE 80W-90 or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approximately 2370 mm (93.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1700 mm (67 in)

Seat Height:

Approximately 675 mm (26.6 in) unladen

Dry Weight:

Approximately 264 kg (582 lbs)

Gvwr:

Refer to VIN plate and manual for specific Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets all applicable US DOT and EPA regulations for its model year.

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake with four-piston calipers. ABS was an optional feature on some variants.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail/brake light, amber front and rear turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, trip meters, diagnostic indicators. Typically mounted on the handlebar risers for a clean cockpit.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option, significantly enhancing safety and control, especially in adverse conditions. The manual will detail its operation and servicing.

Diagnostic Port:

Features a diagnostic port (often a Delphi type or similar, supporting J1850 VPW protocol) for connecting diagnostic tools to read fault codes, monitor live data, and perform component tests.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

Typically 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil and filter change, primary chaincase inspection, checking all fasteners, and fluid level checks.

Subsequent Service:

Generally every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months for routine maintenance, with more in-depth services recommended at higher mileage intervals. Specific intervals for spark plugs, brake fluid, and coolant are detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Filter Part No:

Commonly 63796-01, 63731-99, or 29795-01 (check specific model/year for exact fitment).

Primary Chaincase Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.4 quarts (2.3 L) - refer to manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4, Harley-Davidson Premium Motorcycle Brake Fluid or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, fork seals due to performance riding styles. Fuel pump assemblies and voltage regulators have been noted on some VRSC models.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Regular cleaning and inspection of the fuel injectors, proper maintenance of the cooling system to prevent overheating, and diligent checking of the drive belt tension and condition are crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Harley-Davidson has a long-standing heritage of producing iconic American motorcycles, known for their V-twin engines, custom styling, and rider community. The VRSC platform marked a significant departure and expansion into performance-oriented motorcycles.

Vrsc Platform:

The VRSCDA Night Rod is part of the V-Rod family, developed in collaboration with Porsche. This platform introduced liquid-cooling and a DOHC engine to Harley-Davidson, providing a significant performance upgrade over traditional models.

Night Rod Variant:

The Night Rod (VRSCDA) typically featured a more aggressive, custom styling with a lower profile, different handlebars, and often darker color schemes compared to the original V-Rod (VRSCA/VRSCAW).

Production Period:

The VRSC platform, including the Night Rod variants, was produced from 2002 until 2017. The 2008 model year represents a mature iteration of this successful platform.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Media Awards:

While specific awards for the 2008 VRSCDA might not be extensively documented, the V-Rod platform itself received considerable praise from automotive media for its innovative engine design, performance capabilities, and distinctive styling upon its introduction and throughout its lifecycle.