The first few plates, and steels are easily removed, once you get further into the basket, they get a bit fiddly...
I cut down a wire coat hanger, and bent it into a handle shape, and then bent both ends to create small tabs, which can easily hook behind each plate, allowing quick/easy removal...
Mood: Finally gotten over the 748R getting stolen thing. Actually, no i haven't !
Dry clutch's are designed to run "open" arent they. As delivered new they will run too hot behind that cover. Eurocrats are not interested in the long term health of your clutch. They just want you to be quiet. Let it breathe.
Dry clutches do better when cooled, as mentioned by Keith. The covers are closed to help reduce noise emissions and keep the elements from attacking the works. You could install a vented or open cover to help cool the clutch or if you're a cheap ******* like me you can simply put some spacers between the cover and case. With your consistent wet weather, I would be sure to inspect the clutch often to verify that the works aren't rusting together should you go for an open/vented cover. That tool you saw was in fact the holding tool for removing the clutch hub and has no bearing on the clutch plates.
Mood: My Jota goes rumpety rump! & I have my wife exactly where she wants me!
Got to add my bit here!.
Since I bought my 998s last year i have hated the clutch. It judders and grounches all the time and i get out accelerated by milk floats with flat batteries!. Took it to my dealer who said its was ok and there all like that.
My Jota clutch runs in oil and is super smooth all of the time so I have to ask "are all dry clutches so lousy"?