Need some info on 1997 748. - Ducati.ms

Skroonk · Mar 7th, 2007, 4:58 pm

First of all, I'd like to say how amazing this site is. It's a shock to see so much USEFUL information - as opposed to the pathetic troll caves I'm used to.

I've just acquired a salvaged 1997 748 MP with 8000kms (yes I'm from Canada, and no I don't live in an igloo). I believe that the previous owner used this bike as a track bike since it has slicks (sans chicken strips) so, I figured it has been pushed pretty hard.

I have no idea if the 10,000km service has been done and would like to know the condition of my rockers and engine - in general. I'm going to get it inspected by a local Ducati specializing shop but I digress.

My question is, what does anyone know about the 1997 748?
Ducati.com only has info on 2001+ bikes and searching "748" on this site (rightfully) doesn't work. I can't even find a proper service manual for the bike since I don't even know if it's a 748 or S or R or SP. (or what the difference is between them)

I've noticed that some parts from the '97 748 and the '98 748 are NOT compatible (water pump cover). What were the generation gaps?

Anyways, any info will be greatly appreciated.

C.

betarace · Mar 7th, 2007, 5:18 pm

may be helpful...

http://www.repairmanualclub.com/ducati_manuals

Skroonk · Mar 7th, 2007, 5:55 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by betarace

http://www.repairmanualclub.com/ducati_manuals

Unfortunately, the oldest manual they have is for the 2000 748/996.

JEC · Mar 7th, 2007, 6:18 pm

You have a single phase charging system with 320w (?) alternator hub bolted to the end of the crankshaft - this differs from later models which had a 520w alternator with a conventional stator design, and you need to tighten the retaining nut on the crankshaft of your bike every 10 000kms. It's under the left hand cover, if you get a Haynes manual it will detail the process. That's why later models had different alternator covers.

In 2002 Ducati switched belt designs, so your bike uses pre-2002 belts designed for any 4V (851, 888, 916, 996, 748).

You'd have to check the VIN number to see what model you have - in 97 there was the base biposto, the US model monoposto without an oil cooler and a biposto engine, and the SP with oil cooler and higher spec engine and suspension. There was an "S" model for 1997 which was a US spec monoposto for the Euro market.

Even if it yours has a mono tail it might have started life as a biposto, check the subframe for passenger footpeg mounting points.

The SPS didn't come until 1998, the R in 2000.

If you want an official shop manual, there is one available for 916s on the net that covers pre-1998 748s as well. It's a pay-per-download item, just do a search for it and you should be able to find it. It's ace, I use it to supplement the sometimes vague Haynes manual.

Skroonk · Mar 7th, 2007, 6:25 pm

Wow. The info is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Skroonk · Apr 19th, 2007, 11:42 am

Quick question about the eprom chips. I don't have a chip for my bike and it won't start (obviously) but I was wondering how compatible other chips were from other years of 748s. Do I specifically need the 1997 Ducati 748 chip?

Everything is stock on the bike so a custom map would be out of the question.

Thanks in advance.

hank · Apr 19th, 2007, 1:46 pm

Just because it was a track bike doesn't mean it was ridden any more or less hard.... My experience is that most track bikes are actually cared for better than their street counterparts in terms of proper service.

Additionally, high speeds aren't what kill these bikes, it's slow and stop and go (i.e. STREET) riding that is hard on them. They get really hot around town... while on the track, many people run them with the cooling fans removed - and no with overheating issues ever!

Remember, these bikes were specifically designed for the track - not the street...

bafflebrain · Apr 19th, 2007, 4:19 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skroonk

Quick question about the eprom chips. I don't have a chip for my bike and it won't start (obviously) but I was wondering how compatible other chips were from other years of 748s. Do I specifically need the 1997 Ducati 748 chip?

Everything is stock on the bike so a custom map would be out of the question.

Thanks in advance.

Hehe...way ahead of you Skroonk. See my post on your behalf:

http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=20587

Feel free to contact 'Cheech' for the Eprom and welcome to Ducati.ms