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Special Tools Required?
Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2011 5:08 pm
by Clark
Hello, i’m new to this forum and to the Ducati singles. I have built many bikes over the years, presently finishing an xs650 yammy before i tackle the ducati’s. I acquired 3 bikes (mostly complete rolling chassis) and 5 complete motor’s. I am really looking forward to the first build being my 1972 350 scrambler.
Here’s my question. I was wondering what “special tools” are mandatory? I know you guys have not seen my tool box, but i have split many case’s. Not the best .. but no hack either. I picked up a book (have not read much yet) and have collected most of what i needed for the scrambler... except the “special tools”. There seems to be many so i thought i would check out what the people in the know have to say. I realize how rare some parts are and don’t want to many any error.
Thanks for your input,
The other two are a sebring and a monza jr. Thanks!

Re: Special Tools Required?
Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2011 10:34 am
by Craig in France
Clark wrote: Here’s my question. I was wondering what “special tools” are mandatory?
Ok, here's a few thoughts for starters:
1. You need an exhaust nut spanner. Trying to use anything else just wrecks the nut, sooner or later. Steve sells them, btw.
2. You need some way of locking up the clutch so you can loosen/tighten engine nuts like the crank, the cam and the clutch centre. Here's the one I made, in use:
3. You need a fly wheel puller. Using the correct one is a good idea
4. A simple puller for the clutch cover makes sure it come off straight.
5. The proper valve spring compressor makes life easier.
Let's see what anyone else thinks ...
Ciao
Craig
P.s You DON'T need a rocker pin puller: a simple draw bolt does the job.
Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2011 9:15 pm
by Clark
Craig, Thanks for the info. I know exactly what i need to get. It's always easier finding out from someone who has done it before.
Cheers'
Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2011 12:47 pm
by bobnorton
Hi, flywheel puller and a micrometer are essential, a cam locking tool will avoid damage too.
Posted: Fri Dec 02, 2011 2:11 am
by Craig in France
Hi Clark
Coupla postscripts;
1. Look out for the left-handed thread on the camshaft nut.
2. A good book is Tom Bailey's, "Ducati Singles First Person - A Buyer's Guide To The Ducati Singles".
Ciao
Craig
Posted: Fri Dec 02, 2011 3:40 am
by machten
For those inevitable moments when either really good or really bad things happen, or you just want to sit and admire how beautiful it all looks, I've found it essential to have a bottle of pleasant wine, a corkscrew and a glass amongst my special tools.
Kev
Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2011 2:42 am
by Clark
I tend to agree with you Kev, my shop is a place of relaxation and admiration for vintage cycles. A warm pleasant glow has it's rewards!!
I am very glad that i started this thread. Craig's head up on the left thread, and the Bob's input on the cam locking tool (i was wondering about that) helps me with the special tool needs. I'm good on the Flywheel puller and micrometer.
I am 3-4 weeks from doing the bike shuffle and starting on my scrambler. You guys have made the thought process most enjoyable. I'll post a pic when she's all done. Great site! Thanks for sharing