Target Audience:
Ducati 860 GT/GTS owners, independent mechanics, motorcycle enthusiasts looking for detailed repair and maintenance guidance.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs accurately, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper upkeep of a classic motorcycle.
Accuracy And Detail:
Vehicle-specific, factory-authored information with step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.
Completeness:
Covers all major topics, ensuring no critical repair or maintenance procedure is omitted.
Usability:
Clear, concise text combined with visual aids makes complex procedures accessible to a wide range of skill levels.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Adjustments, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to actual manual for precise count; typical workshop manuals of this era are extensive.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, ignition, lubrication, cooling, fuel, intake, exhaust
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch operation, shifting mechanisms
Drive Train:
Drive chain adjustment and maintenance, sprockets
Chassis:
Frame, forks, steering head, rear suspension (shocks)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, battery, troubleshooting electrical faults
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning and overhaul, fuel lines, fuel tank
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat, fenders, general body maintenance and repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication, bolt checks, tire pressure
Periodic Checks:
Valve adjustments (Desmodromic system), ignition timing, brake pad wear, suspension play
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, carburetor rebuild, suspension fork service
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and advanced issues
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine disassembly and rebuild, suitable for professional mechanics and skilled enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
90-degree V-twin, four-stroke, Desmodromic valve actuation
Displacement:
860 cc (52.5 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual for specific measurements
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 hp (depending on specific model and tuning)
Torque:
Refer to manual for specific measurements
Carburetion:
Twin Dell'Orto carburetors (e.g., PHF 30 or PHM 30 series, depending on variant)
Fuel Type:
Leaded or Unleaded gasoline (consult manual for specific recommendations)
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., SAE 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil)
Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacity (typically around 2.5-3 liters including filter)
Ignition System:
Points and condenser or early electronic ignition (depending on specific model/year)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually.
Desmo Valve Adjustment:
Refer to manual; critical for performance and engine health, typically at significant mileage intervals (e.g., 10,000-15,000 km).
Chain Lubrication:
Frequent; every few hundred kilometers or after riding in wet conditions.
Engine Oil:
See engine_specs.oil_type. Consult manual for precise specifications (e.g., Motul, Castrol, Valvoline motorcycle oils in appropriate viscosity).
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for type and quantity (e.g., SAE 10W or 15W fork oil).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure it is specified in manual for compatible brake systems).
Desmodromic System:
Requires precise adjustment; incorrect settings can lead to poor performance or engine damage. Manual provides critical guidance.
Electrical Reliability:
Vintage electrical systems can be prone to issues; wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for troubleshooting.
Carburetor Tuning:
Dell'Orto carburetors require periodic cleaning and precise adjustment for optimal performance.
Manufacturer Origin:
Italy
Brand Philosophy:
Ducati is renowned for its performance-oriented, desmodromic valve trains and its association with racing heritage.
Predecessor:
Ducati 750 GT
Significance:
The 860 series was a significant evolution, featuring a more modern chassis and a larger, more powerful engine, often credited to Taglio Giugiaro's distinctive styling.
Production Period:
1976-1979 (for the 860 GT/GTS variants covered by this manual)
