1988 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail Manual

The 1988 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail is a classic American cruiser motorcycle featuring the iconic Softail rear suspension system, 1340cc Evolution V-twin engine, 5-speed transmission, belt final drive, and traditional styling with nostalgic details. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine and Transmission 8. Electrical System 10. Care & Storage 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Evolution 1340cc V-twin engine, Softail rear suspension, 5-speed transmission, belt drive, classic cruiser styling.

Feature	Description
Engine	1340cc Evolution V-twin, 4-stroke
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Belt drive
Suspension	Front telescopic fork, rear Softail hidden suspension
Brakes	Front and rear disc brakes
Fuel Capacity	4.2 gallons
Seat Height	27.5 inches
Weight	Approx 650 lbs
Ignition	Electronic
Styling	Classic cruiser with nostalgic details

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform safety check before each ride.

Check tire pressure and condition: Front 30 psi, Rear 36 psi
Inspect brake system: Check fluid levels and pad wear
Verify fuel level: Fill as needed with premium unleaded
Check oil level: Engine oil should be between marks on dipstick
Test lights and signals: Ensure all electrical components function

WARNING! Failure to perform pre-ride inspection may result in accident or injury. Always wear proper protective gear.

Basic Operation

Starting and operating procedures for safe riding.

Starting: Turn ignition on, set choke if cold, press starter button
Shifting: Use clutch lever, shift through 5 gears sequentially
Braking: Apply both front and rear brakes for maximum stopping power
Turning: Lean motorcycle into turns, maintain smooth throttle control
Parking: Use side stand on level surface, turn off ignition

CAUTION! Always practice in safe area before riding in traffic. Familiarize yourself with controls.

Specifications

Engine Type: 4-stroke, 45° V-Twin
Displacement: 1340cc (81.8 cu in)
Bore x Stroke: 3.498" x 4.250"
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Fuel System: Carburetor
Ignition: Electronic
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Belt
Frame: Steel tubular
Wheelbase: 64.2 inches
Seat Height: 27.5 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gallons
Oil Capacity: 3 quarts

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls and instrument panel functions.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signal switch, horn button, high/low beam switch

Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, throttle grip, engine kill switch, starter button

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators, oil pressure light

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right)

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Every 1000 miles: Check tire pressure, inspect brakes, check fluid levels
Every 2500 miles: Change engine oil and filter
Every 5000 miles: Lubricate cables, check battery, inspect drive belt
Every 10000 miles: Change transmission fluid, inspect spark plugs
Annually: Complete safety inspection, check wheel bearings

Tip: Keep detailed maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Engine and Transmission

Evolution V-twin engine and 5-speed transmission operation.

Engine break-in: Vary speeds during first 500 miles, avoid sustained high RPM
Oil changes: Use recommended Harley Davidson formula+ oil
Air filter: Clean or replace as needed for optimal performance
Transmission: Use Harley Davidson transmission lubricant
Cooling: Air-cooled engine requires adequate airflow

WARNING! Engine and exhaust components become extremely hot during operation. Allow to cool before servicing.

Electrical System

12-volt electrical system with battery, charging system, and lighting.

Component	Specification
Battery	12V, maintenance-free
Charging System	Alternator, 30 amp
Headlight	55/60W halogen
Tail Light	LED
Turn Signals	Front and rear, self-canceling

Care & Storage

Proper cleaning and storage procedures.

Cleaning: Use mild soap and water, avoid high-pressure sprays on bearings and electrical components

Storage: Fill fuel tank, add fuel stabilizer, disconnect battery, store in dry location

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals on painted surfaces or chrome. Protect from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Meets applicable DOT and EPA standards for 1988 model year. Copyright © 1988 Harley-Davidson. For genuine parts and service, contact authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships. Owner's manual supplement may contain additional state-specific requirements.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or battery	Check fuel level, spark plugs, battery charge
Poor performance	Air filter, carburetion	Clean/replace air filter, check carburetor settings
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test battery, check all electrical connections
Brake problems	Fluid, pads, adjustment	Check brake fluid, inspect pads, adjust as needed
Transmission noise	Low oil, worn components	Check transmission oil level, inspect for wear

Service: Contact authorized Harley-Davidson dealership for professional service

Parts: Use only genuine Harley-Davidson parts for optimal performance and safety