Yep, both the 97 750 and the later 1000s has the strainer so I guess there should be one!!
Was there a hex type hole behind the outer plug/cap you took off??
![Huh?](http://ducatimonsterforum.org/Smileys/classic/huh.gif)
Some ham fisted type might have damaged the screen trying to get it out previously and left it out.
![Roll Eyes](http://ducatimonsterforum.org/Smileys/classic/rolleyes.gif)
Wont hurt to ride without it, and you can put it in without draining the oil by just leaning the bike over so it doesnt all piss out.
![waytogo](http://ducatimonsterforum.org/Smileys/classic/waytogo.gif)
I think that screen is more to stop gear teeth and large metal flakes and chunks along with low flying birds and small furry animals more than anything else?? There are some other gentlemen on this site that would be more qualified to answer that though.
![Cool](http://ducatimonsterforum.org/Smileys/classic/cool.gif)
But if you have been riding without it up to now, I dont think a little longer is going to hurt.
![waytogo](http://ducatimonsterforum.org/Smileys/classic/waytogo.gif)