Wondering If This Should Be Done???

[diamonddog-2]

Hey People!   So, as it gets warmer here in Minnesota, I'm getting ready to begin the service work on my new baby, the '01 900 S with 30K on the odometer. No service history so I'm thinking just comb through the bike and do whatever comes to mind.  As this is my first Duc, I'm wondering about 2 service items.        #1 - Changing Fork Oil.    I watched a video on YouTube and realized the forks need to be removed, the oil drained-pumped out and then replaced with fresh. The video suggested going with a slightly heavier oil than OEM suggestion for a better ride over bumpy roads.  Any suggestions on a good weight oil to replace it with?

#2 Replacing Fuel Filter.     Again, seems like this should be done?. I understand a pair of very small hands helps with the removal/install of the filter/fuel pump, located inside if the tank.       Realizing there's probably no shortcuts to either one of these [my Aero fork oil can be vacuum-pumped out through the top of the fork via a thin plastic tube vs. removing the fork tube] , I'm just confirming that both of these would be a good bet to do since I have no idea what's been done previously.   My roommate says don't bother with the fuel filter until the engine is obviously starved for fuel.......but I dunno.  It seems like now is a good time to address it?.  Any "tricks" to changing it?

Thanks.

[Howie]

Since there are no service records IMO you need to do the following:
Replace timing belts
Valve clearance check
Renew brake and clutch fluid

As far as the fuel filter goes, yes definitely change it.

Do consider having the forks sprung with linear springs for your weight and re-valved.

[diamonddog-2]

howie,

Thanks. Yes, new belts, oil and filter, sprockets and chain, fresh hydraulic fluids, recharge the K-N air filter, new brake pads, new spark plugs and valve gap check are on the to-do list.

....I'm not sure what linear springs are. ?  ......  like a "progressive" spring?    -   Any weight change that most people make from the stock fork oil weight?

I'll add a new fuel filter to the list.  Any tricks or tips in changing that?   I did it to my BMW and just remember needing to be very careful about the tank paint, in order to empty the gas out.

Maybe add check the wheel bearings/lubrication to the list?

[ducpainter]

Wheel bearings are sealed. You can check them, but if they don't seem right you can't lube them.

Linear springs are also called straight rate. Many feel progressive springs are a compromise so one spring fits more riders. If you post up what type of bars you're running, and how much you weigh, in gear, we can help you with a recommendation. As far as a fork oil change, I don't think heavier oil is the way to go. Ducati forks have always tended to be under sprung, and over damped. Heavier oil would make your forks harsher over bumps. You want heavier springs and lighter, or  the same weight oil.

Changing a Ducati fuel filter does not require the tank to be completely empty Around 1/4 tank and access is easy. Be careful of the vent hoses to the cap holder. They will tear easily. If the fuel line itself is deteriorated, you need to use submersible fuel line, NAPA H209, to replace, and it can be a pita job to get the pump out.

[Howie]

Heavier oil is a budget improvement for the Marzocchi forks that came on some monsters.  Since your bike is an '01S is has adjustable Showas.  If you post your location and weight with gear one of our suspension gurus might advise you on valving and spring rate.

[diamonddog-2]

Here's what I know. The bars look stock but have a 1 inch riser. I weigh a fluid 175 to 185 lbs. and am 6 ft. This bike is going to be ridden solo by a 58 year old guy, around town and occasionally on some really nice twisty roads in the area....if any of that helps with a distant fork valve/spring/oil weight diagnosis?.   I've been away but now it's getting warmer and, hopefully, I'll find some time getting the '01-S maintenance up to date. I also appreciated the oil viscosity/syn. vs. mineral discussion link [on a different post]  that led me to rethinking my engine oil intention. 

Thanks!