Servicing a DUCATI 1098

[HotIce]

I am not in love with ball head sockets. I prefer these wherever possible:

[MadDuck]

The problem is that you don't necessarily have a straight shot. I like the long Snap-On ball socket with the 3/8" drive. Very slick.

I am also a fan of replacing the V/C gaskets. I know the service techs don't like this because cleaning off all the old sealant is a pain. When the dealer guys did my services they did not change the gaskets. I kept wondering where a slight oil burning odor was coming from but could  never find a leak. Miles later when I did my own work I found the spark plug seal leaking slightly thus the oil odor. Did everything by the book & no more leak -- no more odor. If you don't get a leak then it's all good.

[Cloner]

I am not in love with ball head sockets. I prefer these wherever possible:

I love these, too, but they won't give you access to the screw behind the frame.  Sometimes a ball end is a necessary evil. 

[DarkMonster620]

I'm almost done with a 2003 999R Fila Edtion . . what a PITA to work on . . . even with OEM tools