[black98ser]

Can anyone tell if they have encountered any valve issues that Ducati know about on the 748 that comes to light at the 12000 mi service. Something to do with metal flaking. My 12000 service is going to cost 1/2 of what the bike is worth................any thing you guys/gals know would be greatly appreciated.

 

[brettc63]

There is a well known issue on the desmoquattro's with the hardchroming on the valve rockers. Not all are affected and from what i have read - it depends also on how good the valve clearences are kept (regular services) as to how quickly they will flog out. In the worst cases all the rockers need to be replaced. Just reading this article http://www.ducati-john.co.uk/ducati-points.htm and it appears the 2000 to 2004 models are most effected.

 

[Desmo Duc]

My sister only needed the openers replaced, on her 02 748S it was at the 15,000 mi mark. they were replaced for free even though the bike was 2 yrs out of warranty.

 

[Allan Gibbs]

It's been years since I had my 748 serviced at 12K miles but as I recall, everything was up to spec.

 

[black98ser]

Desmo Duc, is your sister the original owner? The dealer said the rockers would be covered if I was the original owner with all service records.....? Also, is the # 5031 the production number of you 1098? thanks!

 

[Desmo Duc]

Desmo Duc, is your sister the original owner? The dealer said the rockers would be covered if I was the original owner with all service records.....? Also, is the # 5031 the production number of you 1098? thanks!

Yes she is the original owner. and 5031 is my production #

 

[The Outlaw]

Is your question about the rocker arms or the valve adjuments tht need to be done at 12000 miles. If you are questioning the rocker arms then it is not an issue about miles. It's a question about if you need them replaced or not. If you are gonna pull the head and look then just match them up to the pics that rerell posted. If you are just wondering if they need to be done good way to tell is pull the oil screen and check for metal flakes.

If are questioning the valve adjusments that need to be done at 12000 miles then that is different. For this you need to check the clearences between the opening and closing shims and the rocker arms. And replace the shims if needed. This can be done with the head still on the bike. But far easier to remove them. I would have to look up the clearences. I have my 748 apart right now for a complete rebuild so I could post pics if needed. Also if you plan on keeping the bike I would buy a shim kit. I paid about $300 bucks for mine. Makes it far easier than trying to go to the dealer and find the ones you need. They usually hand you a box and have you sift through to find what you need.