Ducati 998S User Manual

55
E
Cleaning and replacing the spark plugs (fig. 42)
Spark plugs are essential to smooth engine running and
should be checked at regular intervals. This is done quite
easily and quickly and provides a good measure of engine
condition.
Remove the l.h. body panel, remove the spark plug caps
from the cylinder head using the wrench supplied with
the motorcycle.
Check the color of the insulating ceramic material of the
central electrode: a light brown, even color is a sign of
good engine condition. If color has altered or you find any
dark deposits, change the spark plug and report this to a
Ducati Dealer or Authorized Workshop.
Check wear on the central electrode. If it looks worn out
or has a vitreous appearance, change the spark plug.
Check electrode gap: it should be 0.6 ÷ 0.7 mm.
Important
If the gap needs adjusting, be very careful when
bending the side electrode. If gap is too wide or too
close, engine performance will be affected. This could
also cause difficult starting or irregular idling.
Clean the electrode and the insulating material accurately
using a small metal brush and check seal condition.
Clean the seat in the cylinder head. Be careful not to let
any foreign matters fall into the combustion chamber.
Refit spark plug into cylinder head. Snug it finger-tight
until thread is fully seated into the head. Tighten the
spark plug to 20 Nm.
If you do not have a torque wrench, you can use the
wrench supplied with the tool kit to tighten the spark
plug an additional 1/2 turn.
Important
Never use spark plugs with a heat rating other than
recommended or a thread length other than standard.
Spark plugs should be tightened properly.
fig. 42
0,6
÷
0,7 mm

Ducati 998S Specifications

General

Displacement	998 cc
Bore x Stroke	100 mm x 63.5 mm
Compression Ratio	11.4:1
Transmission	6-speed
Frame	Tubular steel trellis
Front Brakes	2 x 320 mm discs, 4-piston calipers
Tire Front	120/70 ZR17
Tire Rear	190/50 ZR17
Engine Type	Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, L-twin, Desmodromic DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Torque	97 Nm @ 8000 rpm
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Front Suspension	Showa 43mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable
Rear Suspension	Showa monoshock, fully adjustable
Rear Brakes	220 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Fuel Capacity	17 liters

Summary

General Motorcycle Information

Safety Riding Guidelines

Essential precautions and information for safe motorcycle operation.

Motorcycle Controls Overview

Control Locations and Functions

Diagram identifying the position and function of all motorcycle controls.

Handlebar and Pedal Controls

Details on levers, pedals, switches for operation and adjustment.

Ignition, Keys, and Steering Lock

Instrument Panel Indicators Explained

Speed, Odometer, and Trip Meters

Engine RPM and Warning Lights

Explanation of tachometer and various warning/indicator lights.

Left Handlebar Switch Functions

Light Switch Operations

Turn Signals and Horn

Clutch Lever Operation and Adjustment

Starter Lever Usage

Right Handlebar Controls

Engine Stop Switch

Function of the engine stop switch for running and emergency stops.

Throttle and Front Brake Operation

How to use the throttle twistgrip and front brake lever.

Braking and Gear Shifting Pedals

Rear Brake Pedal Operation

Gear Change Pedal Function

Key Motorcycle Components Location

Steering and Suspension Adjusters

Location of steering damper and front/rear suspension adjusters.

Side Stand Safety and Operation

Front Fork Adjustment Procedures

Shock Absorber Adjustment Guide

Running-In Recommendations

First 1000 km Riding

Speed limits and gentle braking advice for the initial 1000 km.

1000 to 2500 km Riding

Recommendations for the 1000-2500 km period, with higher speed limits.

Post-Running-In and Pre-Ride Checks

After 2500 km Usage

Maximum speed limits and maintenance adherence after running-in.

Pre-Ride Safety Checklist

Essential checks before riding: fuel, oil, brakes, controls, lights, stand.

Starting the Engine Procedures

Starting in Regular Temperatures

Procedure for starting the engine in normal ambient temperatures.

Moving Off and Braking Techniques

Smoothly Moving Off

Steps for starting from a stop and shifting gears.

Effective Braking Practices

Guidance on using both brakes and safe braking practices.

Stopping the Motorcycle and Refueling

Safely Stopping the Motorcycle

Proper Refueling Practices

Parking and Motorcycle Security

Main Maintenance Operations Overview

Air Filter Cleaning and Replacement

Coolant Level Check and Refill

Brake and Clutch Fluid Level Checks

Brake Fluid Level Management

Clutch Fluid Level Management

Brake Pad Wear Inspection

Battery Charging Procedure

Chain Maintenance Procedures

Tyre Pressure and Mirror Adjustment

Recommended Tyre Pressures

Tyre Care and Tread Depth

Tyre Repair and Replacement

Minimum Tread Depth Requirements

Engine Oil Level and Viscosity

Checking Engine Oil Level

Procedure for checking engine oil level via the sight glass.

Spark Plug Checks and Replacement

Engine and Timing System Details

Engine Specifications Summary

Desmodromic Timing System Explained

Brake System Specifications

Front Brake System Details

Rear Brake System Details

Transmission and Drive Chain Specifications

Suspension and Electrical Systems

Front and Rear Suspension Systems

Electric System Components Overview

Fuses and Electrical Protection