Motorcycle Repair: 97 Softail Custom Starter Replacement, hd factory, shaft extension

Question
Do I have to remove the oil tank to replace the starter? Is there any online manuals I can purchase and download

Answer
No you don't have to remove the oil tank but sometimes it's easier if you unbolt all the mounts so you can get a little movement out of it.  You do have to remove the primary cover to unbolt the starter jack shaft extension.  I only use the HD factory manuals.  Your bike manual is HD part #99482-98, still available and costs about $55 plus tax.