Factory Service Manual Questions
 

I have a 2011 883 Superlow. However, they way I see it, you can buy a FSM for the bike and an electrical service manual. About $120, give or take.

1. It seems like it is for all sportster models. Can you buy for just your own?
2. If you don't buy the electrical service manual, is it in the service manual or will you miss out on information?
3. Must we have it in paper format and not electronic?

TIA

service manuals are great for servicing the bike motor trans
electrical manuals hold all the key info of your electrical system many trouble code flow charts and wiring diagrams


Reference to illegally downloaded HD manuals removed by moderator.

I have the Clymer's Manual for bikes 1986-2003. It comes with everything the service manual does, and it has a full color wiring diagram in the back. It covers both mechanical and electrical throughout the book. I got mine for about $30 on amazon.

I have seen the HD one, and it's similar, but nothing I don't already have.

After-market manuals cover a wide range of models and frankly do so badly. I no longer buy them. They are very general, cover many years and miss lots of valuable info, although they may also have some plus points. The factory service manual covers YOUR model and year, fully. I have my 2011 Sportster manual which covers all the servicing stuff I want want, including the electrics and a wiring diagram. If the electronics needs attention I will call in an expert! I for one won't miss not having that book.

There are no readily available electronic versions of these manuals and you will find a 'sticky' about them at the top of this forum. Any you see advertised are likely to be illegal copies and infringe H-D copyright, if you wonder why the Mods removed part of the message above.

Get both manuals. The electrical one has these chain of logic charts are very useful. The breakout box and both manuals will run you about $300, but save you thousands down the road.

I guess that would probably be the way I head and the wife will have to get them for me this X'mas. That is, unless there are better ways.