Greetings,
Just purchased a Monster 600 that needs a little TLC. Mileage is 12,500 ish and it needs tires, chain and sprockets to start. It runs pretty well, but needs carbs synched, probably belts and valves checked. I plan to do most of the work myself. I live in Fredericksburg,VA, which is south of DC by 50 miles. Looking for a good Ducati shop/mechanic in the event I get in over my head. Looking forward to hearing from other Ducati owners that might be able to enlighten me. Thanks.
Welcome to Duc land. Check Duc Pond in winchester. Great dealer.
Morning! Quite a few of us in your general area. CAM is the regional haunt
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=20.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=20.0)
There's lots of DIY info on here, so as long as you're not in a time crunch to do the work we should be able to help you get past any issues. Good news is that a 600 is pretty easy to work on. Two valves per head with pretty easy access. Don't know what you tool supplies are like, but you might need/want some for the job. But at the end of the day, doing the valves doesn't take much special gear - probably the most specialized item is a micrometer.
As part of that job, be sure to buy a new set of Cam belts. They are spec'd to be replaced at 12k or 2 years of service. IF they are the originals, then they are over that mark on both accounts. And since you're going to be removing the belts as part of the valve check you loose no time installing new ones.
Should plan on flushing all the fluids. Brakes and clutch at DOT4 hydraulics. In the short term you can just flush it with DOT4 from the local auto parts store.
If you've got a chain tool, DIY chain and sprockets is an easy job as long as one doesn't rush.
Other things to ponder would be replacing the fork oil. It's probably way over age and not working so well.
Invest in a rear stand - you'll need it.
And welcome