Ducati Monster Forum

Moto Board => General Monster Forum => Topic started by: J.P. on March 08, 2009, 07:59:30 PM

Title: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: J.P. on March 08, 2009, 07:59:30 PM
Ok- now the handle bars hit the tank lock to lock. Dimples on both sides, clip barely has room to work.
Is Duc offering a good will type replacement? I notices it costs $1838.00 for a replacement.
Anyone have any luck? Especially out of warrenty?
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: needtorque on March 08, 2009, 08:07:32 PM
If you bought it brand new and it came like that maybe but doubtful.  After 3 years they would say that someone probably adjusted the steering stop improperly.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: He Man on March 08, 2009, 09:04:25 PM
they will defintely not. You dont lock your bike often do you? because you would of noticed it when your lock pin wouldnt go into place.  how did you get dimples anyway? the 06 S2R1k has a plastic tank? ive crashed it twice and i dont even have a least bit of a dimple.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Spidey on March 08, 2009, 09:17:58 PM
I'm not sure I entirely understand what you're asking.  The problem is that your bars now hit the tank at full lock and you want to know if that is a goodwill warranty fix? 

Did they do that before?  If not, did you check your steering stops?
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: red baron on March 08, 2009, 09:48:44 PM
Did the stops back out?
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Mash on March 09, 2009, 08:38:55 AM
Mine is like that too.  I have to use a screwdriver to move the latch off the retainer before I can lift the tank.  I can undo the latch easily enough, but the tank sits too far forward to get at the bail with a finger.

I bought the bike used, but there's no evidence of any damage, and the hinge area looks undisturbed.  Also, my grips don't contact the tank at all. There about 1/4" from the tank, but they don't touch.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: pennyrobber on March 09, 2009, 10:09:54 AM
This all has to do with the tank deformation that plastic tanks are experiencing. My tank has done the same thing. The tank is basically getting longer with time and it now pushes up against the latch. Some sport classic tanks are getting wider with time and the tanks fall out of their mounting brackets on the sides of the frame. I have heard mixed stories about the warranty issue though.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 09, 2009, 10:29:21 AM
Quote from: pennyrobber on March 09, 2009, 10:09:54 AM
This all has to do with the tank deformation that plastic tanks are experiencing. My tank has done the same thing. The tank is basically getting longer with time and it now pushes up against the latch.


I thought I was crazy when I had to adjust the steering stops again but the tank hinge mount was as far back as it will go.   I can't use my steering lock anymore either (my clipons havben't moved).   huh.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Grampa on March 09, 2009, 10:45:34 AM
Quote from: Statler on March 09, 2009, 10:29:21 AM

I thought I was crazy when I had to adjust the steering stops again but the tank hinge mount was as far back as it will go.   I can't use my steering lock anymore either (my clipons havben't moved).   huh.



never gas up after midnight




Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: needtorque on March 09, 2009, 10:57:38 AM
Now plastic deformity may be a concern that you could get warranted as that is clearly a defect in materials.  My suggestion would be starting some sort of inquiry to DNA and seeing what the reply is.  Perhaps start a thread here and see what kind of responses you get and then point DNA to the thread so they can see the commonality.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: NAKID on March 09, 2009, 02:49:43 PM
Quote from: bobspapa on March 09, 2009, 10:45:34 AM
never gas up after midnight






Only Joel would say something like this...
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: J.P. on March 09, 2009, 03:38:43 PM
Quote from: needtorque on March 09, 2009, 10:57:38 AM
Now plastic deformity may be a concern that you could get warranted as that is clearly a defect in materials.  My suggestion would be starting some sort of inquiry to DNA and seeing what the reply is.  Perhaps start a thread here and see what kind of responses you get and then point DNA to the thread so they can see the commonality.

Nice thought- but we all see how the O2 issue went.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: needtorque on March 09, 2009, 04:40:22 PM
Quote from: J.P. on March 09, 2009, 03:38:43 PM
Nice thought- but we all see how the O2 issue went.


Well I am not saying it would work but at the dealership prices for a new tank at roughly 1/5 the cost of the bike brand new a class action lawsuit for spmething like this may be appropriate if they will not stand behind the warranty.

I love Ducati and their product but if they don't stand behind it then they deserve what they get.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Buckethead on March 09, 2009, 04:59:12 PM
Worst case scenario, even if DNA tells you to pack sand, Chris Kelley's newer, bigger plastic tank should be in production soon. Its got a bigger capacity, comes in most stock colors, and his list price is $430. New.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 09, 2009, 05:15:31 PM
worst case for me, a CA-cycleworks tank is a lot cheaper and time effective than a lawsuit.   And my attorney's fees are......free.

I'll talk to my dealer and see what the thoughts are.


anyone need an oversized RS tank for cheap?

(so far it works fine...and I'm not anal enough to care if it gets marked up a bit....so worst case is actually me just riding the snot out of it and not worrying one bit).
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: needtorque on March 09, 2009, 06:02:41 PM
For me it would not be mainly about the money.  It's the lack of principles when it comes to almost any corporation.  Ducati cannot afford to screw over the loyal few of the market share they hold.  Besides the fact that it is just not right. 

Besides, if the squeaky wheel gets the grease then what does the quiet wheel get?  Royally make the beast with two backsed up.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 09, 2009, 06:07:21 PM
nah...the quiet wheel will be riding a few track days and enjoying life.   Too short to get all bent out of shape.   I'll see what I can do the way I do it...then I'll build something awesome to flog.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 09, 2009, 06:14:58 PM
Even though I am not directly affected, this is BS.  I can't believe a flaw like this could get out and propagate.

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 09, 2009, 06:18:49 PM
it's a toy.   We'll work with the dealer to correct the issue, and then we'll make the best of it to keep having fun with it.

no big deal.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Buckethead on March 09, 2009, 06:21:07 PM
Quote from: mitt on March 09, 2009, 06:14:58 PM
Even though I am not directly affected, this is BS.  I can't believe a flaw like this could get out and propagate.

mitt

Why?

The tank (and its material) was likely in testing for a riding season at most. How long had the Ford Explorer been around before they had problems with lower control arm links?

Most of the tanks that are having problems have been out in real-world conditions for 2+ years.

Would they have switched to these tanks if they'd foreseen this? I doubt it.

Will they make it right? I hope so.

Did they do this maliciously? Not likely.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: lawbreaker on March 09, 2009, 06:38:51 PM
Quote from: Statler on March 09, 2009, 06:18:49 PM
it's a toy.   We'll work with the dealer to correct the issue, and then we'll make the best of it to keep having fun with it.

no big deal.


+1 [thumbsup]

BTW... DNA covered me... and many others on the deformation that appeared on the side of the tanks. It looked like bubbles. There were more than a few S2R1k's here that had that problem. I dont see why they wouldnt resolve this issue also. If they dont, i'm not too concerned and wont get pissed about it if they dont.... just a reason to mod the tank (somehow)
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: needtorque on March 09, 2009, 07:29:14 PM
It would bother me only if they did not make it right.  To spend that much money on anything and not have it last longer than 2-3 years before what I feel is a major fault appears is just unacceptable QC.  If it was ten years old it would be different even the metal tanks start to rust at some point but 2-3 years and FUBAR is not acceptable.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: herm on March 09, 2009, 07:42:20 PM
sounds like an excuse to move up to a CF tank!
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: silentbob on March 09, 2009, 08:57:37 PM
Wait a minute.  First you guys complain that the tank is too small and now you complain that it grew and got too big.  You sound like Goldilocks. 
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: corey on March 10, 2009, 06:02:58 AM
Quote from: herm on March 09, 2009, 07:42:20 PM
sounds like an excuse to move up to a CF tank!

my thoughts exactly.  [thumbsup]
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 10, 2009, 06:06:09 AM
Quote from: Obsessed? on March 09, 2009, 06:21:07 PM
Why?

The tank (and its material) was likely in testing for a riding season at most. How long had the Ford Explorer been around before they had problems with lower control arm links?

Most of the tanks that are having problems have been out in real-world conditions for 2+ years.

Would they have switched to these tanks if they'd foreseen this? I doubt it.

Will they make it right? I hope so.

Did they do this maliciously? Not likely.

Plastic tanks are new to Ducati, but not new to the motorcycle world.  They have been around for 20 years.  If Ducati can't do their engineering and research, then they should stick with what they know.

And I agree, car mfg's shouldn't make those mistakes either - the Ford 1/2 ton lug nuts come to mind - how can you screw up a part that cars have used for 50 years?

The only reason Ducati changed tanks IMO was cost, and having a tank that doesn't fit and function properly today, and who knows what tomorrow (cracks) was a bad choice.  Maybe that is why the new bikes have skins - as the tank grows, you can get thinner skins, to end up with the same overall size?  

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: lawbreaker on March 10, 2009, 09:18:59 AM
Quote from: corey on March 10, 2009, 06:02:58 AM
my thoughts exactly.  [thumbsup]
[clap]... Now thats what i'm talking about!

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Howie on March 10, 2009, 10:25:44 AM
Any reports of tanks swelling and distorting in parts of the world where ethanol is not being used in gasoline?
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Speeddog on March 10, 2009, 10:41:13 AM
Quote from: howie on March 10, 2009, 10:25:44 AM
Any reports of tanks swelling and distorting in parts of the world where ethanol is not being used in gasoline?

That's a good question.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Spidey on March 10, 2009, 10:48:29 AM
Does anyone have a picture or two of this swelling we're all talking about?  And no, that's not supposed to sound dirty. 
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 10, 2009, 11:27:23 AM
Quote from: Spidey on March 10, 2009, 10:48:29 AM
Does anyone have a picture or two of this swelling we're all talking about?  And no, that's not supposed to sound dirty. 

I'll take some shots whenever the rain stops.

For my bike it's like the frame got shorter.   No more room between the tank and the key surround.   

Really did think I was imagining it until recently.

No obvious deformation of the tank....it's just bigger....or the rest of the bike shrunk.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Popeye the Sailor on March 10, 2009, 11:36:13 AM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 11:27:23 AM
I'll take some shots whenever the rain stops.

For my bike it's like the frame got shorter.   No more room between the tank and the key surround.   

Really did think I was imagining it until recently.

No obvious deformation of the tank....it's just bigger....or the rest of the bike shrunk.

If you ride around in reverse for a bit, it should shrink back down.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Speeddog on March 10, 2009, 11:38:27 AM
Usually the tank spreads out wider also, evidenced by the rubber pads on the bottom not sitting properly on the frame.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 12:11:34 PM
Wow, this is the first I hear of this problem. Is it specific to certain years?
I have an 07 and so far so good. Bike is under warranty until August of this year.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Mash on March 10, 2009, 02:25:24 PM
Here's some pics I just took of my tank. 

(https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3344393175_fd4c829c21.jpg)

(https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3627/3344393159_dfd4c6ffe9.jpg)

I'm not having a problem with controls hitting the tank, though.  Here's how much clearance I have.

(https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3352/3344393219_352469248a.jpg)
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 10, 2009, 05:45:46 PM
Good pics.

yup.  I have less clearance at the key than that now.    side pads still fit fine.   metal catch at front scrapes even when locked.

It doesn't truly effect function yet, just aesthetics, but if it gets worse it will.

I have clipons too so the clearance at the bars is a bigger deal....but again...not so much now that a quick adjustment at the screws is a big deal.

Loss of the steering lock sucks but not enough to raise hell over yet.

I'll let you know what my dealer says.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: woppini on March 10, 2009, 05:48:24 PM
Ive done some research on this because I started having problems with mine few months back. In no particular order, the tank will grow in length, in width, knee cutouts will show warping, outward dimples will begin to form. I did a good will warranty request on mine, but no answer yet from the dealer so I should call. Bottom line is, Ducati used a nylon tank. The nylon absorbs moisture, and such. Causes it to distort. Chris Kelly is working to release a "track tank" that has the same lines as a sport bike tank, and is made of another material completely. Another alternative is a fuel cell that mimics the look of the real tank. http://www.eti-fuelcel.com/ (http://www.eti-fuelcel.com/)
Just a matter of time before pretty much all the tanks will start having issues.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Dave R on March 10, 2009, 06:00:14 PM
Not sure if most people are aware but Acerbis makes the plastic tanks for Ducati...along with many other plastic bits..  They have made tanks for a long time.  The percentage of enthanol mixed in US gas has increased in the last few years.   
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: DucLeone on March 10, 2009, 06:02:42 PM
Quote from: Speeddog on March 10, 2009, 11:38:27 AM
Usually the tank spreads out wider also, evidenced by the rubber pads on the bottom not sitting properly on the frame.
that happend to me ,and it got replaced  under warranty
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 06:28:03 PM
Quote from: Dave R on March 10, 2009, 06:00:14 PM
Not sure if most people are aware but Acerbis makes the plastic tanks for Ducati...along with many other plastic bits..  They have made tanks for a long time.  The percentage of enthanol mixed in US gas has increased in the last few years.   

So you think ethanol in gas is to blame??? Good thing I get gas with no ethanol in it.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Dave R on March 10, 2009, 06:30:47 PM
Quote from: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 06:28:03 PM
So you think ethanol in gas is to blame??? Good thing I get gas with no ethanol in it.

no one seems to have that answer  ???
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 06:36:41 PM
Man, this sucks!
If that happens to my bike and they don't fix it under warranty, Ducati lost a customer.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: PizzaMonster on March 10, 2009, 06:39:08 PM
If it's the ethanol...let's just sue the government   ;D
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:46:34 PM
bike still works.  tank still works.    I don't care if it scratches when I lift it and the steering lock is no big.   I will try to see what DNA do, but absolute worst case I will still ride the snot out of it and buy another when I need/want to.

it's a fun value versus pain in ass thing.    When I go wheelie in 2nd or drag a knee I could care less if my plastic tank has a dimple in it and has some scuffs on the front.

priorities folks....deap breath.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 06:52:25 PM
Quote from: DucLeone on March 10, 2009, 06:02:42 PM
that happend to me ,and it got replaced  under warranty

Was it after the 2 year warranty?
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:53:57 PM
my two-year is up but  I got extended by DNA.  email into dealer now about it.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 10, 2009, 07:06:22 PM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:46:34 PM
bike still works.  tank still works.    I don't care if it scratches when I lift it and the steering lock is no big.   I will try to see what DNA do, but absolute worst case I will still ride the snot out of it and buy another when I need/want to.

it's a fun value versus pain in ass thing.    When I go wheelie in 2nd or drag a knee I could care less if my plastic tank has a dimple in it and has some scuffs on the front.

priorities folks....deap breath.



No offense statler, but you keep talking about buying another one, buying another one, buying another one.  For a lot of people, that is a hard option to swallow.  You have spent more on 1 mod on your bike than I have spend total in my 5 years of ownership.  Different strokes for different folks.  But, this is a pill no one should have to swallow.  It is obvious, it is not from misuse, it will cause functional problems, etc. 

DaveR- what does Ducati have to say?  They can't blame just ethanol.  There is ethanol in Europe just not as much as here.  Same with South America. 

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 10, 2009, 07:09:13 PM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:53:57 PM
my two-year is up but  I got extended by DNA.  email into dealer now about it.

I know what the dealer will say, "there is no problem".
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 10, 2009, 07:10:44 PM
Quote from: mitt on March 10, 2009, 07:06:22 PM
No offense statler, but you keep talking about buying another one, buying another one, buying another one.  For a lot of people, that is a hard option to swallow.  You have spent more on 1 mod on your bike than I have spend total in my 5 years of ownership.  Different strokes for different folks.  But, this is a pill no one should have to swallow.  It is obvious, it is not from misuse, it will cause functional problems, etc. 

DaveR- what does Ducati have to say?  They can't blame just ethanol.  There is ethanol in Europe just not as much as here.  Same with South America. 

mitt

no...I keep saying I will talk to DNA and my dealer, but that I personally will be ok either way.   I completely understand where this would be a hardship for someone.

I deal with these things a little more quietly than posting rants about lawsuits...and that has worked for me in the past.

If I get to the point of threatening legal letters it will not be posted here.

Please don't put words in my mouth.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 10, 2009, 07:36:32 PM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 07:10:44 PM
no...I keep saying I will talk to DNA and my dealer, but that I personally will be ok either way.   I completely understand where this would be a hardship for someone.

I deal with these things a little more quietly than posting rants about lawsuits...and that has worked for me in the past.

If I get to the point of threatening legal letters it will not be posted here.

Please don't put words in my mouth.


I totally agree, posturing on a forum isn't the best way to resolution either.  Hopefully if enough people have the same problem, and enough dealers get asked, and regional reps get asked, and DNA gets that feedback plus owners, this is one that DNA or D will help out with.  These are "new" bikes we are talking about, not 10 year old mx bikes.

not sure what you meant by putting words in your mouth  ???

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Mash on March 10, 2009, 09:07:47 PM
When I had my bike in the shop for a TPS reset, the mechanic pointed the problem out to me.  Since I've never owned a Duc, I guess I thought they were all that way.  He said he'd seen a few like that lately, and would be contacting DNA to see what they have to say about it.  Frankly, I didn't really care at the time, and haven't followed up with him.  I may stop by there and hit him up on it.

Until this thread, I never gave it another thought.

Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: J.P. on March 11, 2009, 01:34:01 PM
Wait till your triple tree (stock) starts banging into the tank when trying to park it.
CF tank? Where do people get the money? I must be such a looser.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 11, 2009, 07:01:14 PM
Quote from: J.P. on March 11, 2009, 01:34:01 PM
Wait till your triple tree (stock) starts banging into the tank when trying to park it.
CF tank? Where do people get the money? I must be such a looser.

Does this happen gradually or fairly quick???
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Gus Duc on March 11, 2009, 09:19:47 PM
Same issue here............ good to know I'm not crazy & that the tank isn't coming apart at the latch.

My 06 S2R1K has 16K & the tank has grown both longer & wider........latch is difficult but I can get to it from underneath & when I turn the bars left to full lock, the triple just barely hits the tank.  Bike still locks though.  Tank pads are also sitting funny.

I think I'll give the dealer a call tomorrow....... if that fails I'll try t he regional Rep........he lives near by [thumbsup]
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: He Man on March 11, 2009, 11:12:47 PM
As with some others, i've asked 2 dealers about it, both denied there was a problem. (this was last year). I posted up about it thinking i tweaked my frame when i went down. It would be a long shot to try to get it warrantied, but its doubtful.  good luck to anyone who can get their dealer to do it.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 12, 2009, 06:20:56 AM
This sucks, they should replace the tanks under warranty even after the two years is up.
I'm not happy that I might have to spend 2 grand to have my tank changed in a few years.
Why did they change them from the steel tanks to the plastic ones in the first place.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 12, 2009, 08:55:08 AM
Quote from: MostroS2R on March 12, 2009, 06:20:56 AM
This sucks, they should replace the tanks under warranty even after the two years is up.
I'm not happy that I might have to spend 2 grand to have my tank changed in a few years.
Why did they change them from the steel tanks to the plastic ones in the first place.


1) cost

2) put an end to slow speed tip over dents
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Spidey on March 12, 2009, 09:56:43 AM
Quote from: MostroS2R on March 12, 2009, 06:20:56 AM
Why did they change them from the steel tanks to the plastic ones in the first place.

Curiously, folks were pretty darn happy when they changed over to the plastic tanks ('05?).  There was lots of praise about how the tanks avoided the Ducati tank ding that plagued steel tanks, and the concerns about the leaking hinge at the base of the tank disappeared. 
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: MostroS2R on March 12, 2009, 10:07:46 AM
Fixed one problem but introduced another...
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Dietrich on March 12, 2009, 10:36:41 AM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:46:34 PM
bike still works.  tank still works.    I don't care if it scratches when I lift it and the steering lock is no big.   I will try to see what DNA do, but absolute worst case I will still ride the snot out of it and buy another when I need/want to.

it's a fun value versus pain in ass thing.    When I go wheelie in 2nd or drag a knee I could care less if my plastic tank has a dimple in it and has some scuffs on the front.

priorities folks....deap breath

I tend to agree with Statler when it comes to my own bike (this is a huge probelm with teh Sport Classic tanks).  But I can tell you that my tank is warping pretty badly now, and I have several friends who's tanks have various warps, growths, ripples, bumps, dimples, etc., etc..  I hate seeing these new expensive bikes deforming before our eyes (looks great in pictures too- seeing a bunch of Ducatis under two years old lined up for a glamour shot with tanks rippled). 

On my bike the fuel pump mounting surface is so deformed it wouldn't seal up with just the oring.  I had to file off the high points and use a sealant in addition to the oring.  The last time I had the tank off I noticed the warping there is back, and the plastic seems softer - I can deform it easily with my fingers even with  the fuel pump mounted.  I'm keeping a close eye on it, and crossing my fingers it doesn't start leaking on my header again.  I plan to modify/repair the tank if it gets worse, and plan to press for a new tank only if there is a change in material or construction.  I might instal some Triumph-esque knee pads to cover the huge warps on the sides of my tank in the meantime.

All 3 of these bikes have warped tanks, the tank on the yellow bike has expanded off it's front mounts and can be lifted easily:
(http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n85/dietrichpfeifer/WarpedTanks.jpg)
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 12, 2009, 11:15:55 AM
Quote from: Dietrich on March 12, 2009, 10:36:41 AM


All 3 of these bikes have warped tanks, the tank on the yellow bike has expanded off it's front mounts and can be lifted easily:


:-[   That sucks.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: pennyrobber on March 12, 2009, 11:34:44 AM
I figured I would fill everyone in on my situation. A few days ago I called a local Duc shop to ask about a good will warranty (the bike is one year out of warranty) and the chick I talked to wasn't very helpful. She said that 99 times out of 100 Ducati will not help. I tried to explain to her the situation with the tank but she really didn't care. This particular shop has changed ownership recently and I figured I would give them a chance. They sucked before and it seems nothing really changed.

I then contacted customer service at DNA and received a quick response that told me to make an apointment at a local shop of my choice and they would have the regional rep get in contact with the shop over the issue. The shop I chose (the only one of the 3 in town that I actually trust) said they have dealt with the issue recently on a Sport Classic and they are going to do what they can to get me set up with a new tank. I am keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: lawbreaker on March 12, 2009, 12:23:31 PM
Quote from: Statler on March 10, 2009, 06:53:57 PM
my two-year is up but  I got extended by DNA.  email into dealer now about it.

Just an FYI:

Took my S2R1K in a while back for the tank bubble issue and the dealer told me that even though I have an extended warranty, it does NOT cover cosmetics ( such as the tank bubbles emerging on the side). They photo'd the tank, contacted DNA, DNA called the dealer back in a few days and honored replacement- I was still under warranty at the time.

I would guess that if this has become a common problem ( various tank issues- now tank expansion/elongation), DNA may also cover this new problem..........

of course im crossing my fingers....

and I just noticed my tank pads no longer sit on the frame so I guess it's happening to me too
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Old-Duckman on March 12, 2009, 01:12:29 PM
Well I'm sure that everyone with a plastic tank went and checked it.

I got one of the first S2R 1000's to hit the states, took it home 3 Dec. 2005. I have about 16.5 K miles on it, store it in a heated basement during winter and my garage during warmer months.

The only thing I noticed...and I wondered about it when I first noticed it, is the fact that the bracket for my Matris top mount steering damper totally cleared the tank when I first put it on. Had a quick stop in gravel (like maybe 2 MPH) front brake lock-up ...bike went down on the side of the damper bracket. The bracket put a very small nick in the black stripe. I took the aluminum bracket off, ground back and polished the sharp edge and remounted the bracket. Full lock to the right and good clearance between the tank and the bracket.

Moving the bike out of the basement late this winter I noticed the bracket will now hit the tank again. If I took it to full stop it would probably put a good sized nick in the tank. Reading this thread...the puzzle added up.

I just went into the garage to check for any other symptoms pointed out here and found none of those. The rubber pads still hit the frame fully. The tank latch works well, no bubbles or ripples, etc. Just the symptoms described above.

I am wondering, do the guys who have the worst symptoms park their bikes in direct sun for long periods of time? Not that you shouldn't be able to do so...but it could be a key to the puzzle as to why it happens to some and not to others.

My bike sits in full sun (parked) perhaps 4 or 5 days a month during the warm weather. Other than when I am riding, it is in the garage, out of direct sunlight.

Any info on sun exposure in the worst cases would be interesting.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Dietrich on March 12, 2009, 01:21:25 PM
All 3 of the bikes in the pic I posted are garaged.  Of course we live in Arizona. :)  But other than weekend rides and stops for lunch, etc., even if riding to work my bike is under covered parking. 

Just saw some rumors posted on ducati.ms that Ducati will be replacing the Sport Classic tanks.  Hate to spread rumors, and have no details on that statment.... I'll believe it when I see it, but it would go a long way in restoring some faith and loyalty to Ducati.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: corey on March 12, 2009, 01:43:44 PM
Mine is getting a **little** tight around the key area. I have **trouble** getting to the hook on the tank latch... I'm sure it will all get worse. But do I really want to go through all the trouble of replacing the tank if it's just going to happen again?
Anyone heard anything about new materials being used?

I can by no means afford a CF tank, but i'm probably going to go that route anyway.
Warming up the visa ;D
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: herm on March 12, 2009, 02:22:19 PM
if i where to replace my tank, i would immediately put it on flea-bay..........then order a CF tank

however,... i cant say that i am experiencing any noticeable problems yet. but if its gonna happen, sooner would be better than later.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Benjamin5150 on March 12, 2009, 02:32:48 PM
I tried a while back to obtain a good will warranty replacement of my tank which had bubbled/blistered severely.  Of course it didn't start going bad until my warranty expired.  DNA considered it a cosmetic issue and washed their hands of it.  I have little faith in Ducati doing the right thing when it comes to these tanks.  The so called Ducati good will warranty is an urban legend me thinks.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: arai_speed on March 12, 2009, 03:49:39 PM
Seeing how I'm having the exact same issue I took my bike to my local dealership and the service manager immediately noticed the bulging and bubbling.  He said DNA no longer does "good will" for out of warranty work and that the issue was only cosmetic so chances were DNA would tell me to take a hike.  Being unhappy with that response I called up DNA and spoke to their customer service explaining my problem.

They told me that the tank is part of the "fuel delivery system and it has a 5 year warranty" - not 2 (not sure if this is a California thing only)  BUT to get a tank replaced under this warranty is has to negatively affect the fuel delivery system of the motorcycle.  In my case (and probably those of others) the bubbles and ripples are not directly affecting fuel delivery.

DNA also said to talk to your local Ducati dealership and have them make an appointment with a regional operator to come out and asses the situation.  Once the RO comes out you'll know if DNA will replace it or just say sorry.

I'll be giving my dealership a call in another week or so.

I forgot to mention - my 2 year warranty expired 2 months ago.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 12, 2009, 04:21:10 PM
Quote from: arai_speed on March 12, 2009, 03:49:39 PM

They told me that the tank is part of the "fuel delivery system and it has a 5 year warranty" - not 2 (not sure if this is a California thing only)  BUT to get a tank replaced under this warranty is has to negatively affect the fuel delivery system of the motorcycle.  In my case (and probably those of others) the bubbles and ripples are not directly affecting fuel delivery.


How about when the fuel pump wont seal and a leak starts?  I hate screwing companies or insurance, but if your local shop had to remove the fuel pump for whatever reason, then couldn't reinstall it without it dripping gas onto your engine, I would call that negatively affecting fuel delivery!

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Statler on March 13, 2009, 08:14:45 AM
I hope to have time to do some organization about this in April through the DMF for the first round of some pressure on DNA.  I'll do this regardless of my own success or failure with my dealer and bike.

I will need to gather names, addresses, contact info, bike vin number.  I will not disclose any personal info in the first draft, but I will need the info.  This will not be a formal legal relationship and I will not be acting as anyone's attorney, but it definitely would be setting us all up for further work by someone else.

I'll post something when I can spend some time on it.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: J.P. on March 13, 2009, 08:24:39 AM
Thanks Statler- there is strength in numbers!
You da man. again.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: angler on March 13, 2009, 08:30:50 AM
This is fairly timely thread.  My tank is rippled badly in the knee pad area and has spread so much that very little of the mounting pads touch the frame.  It is also tough to get to the latch, but not as bad as others have mentioned.  I did not buy the bike new and it is a 2005.  I wrote DNA a letter and their response was they were sorry that I was having trouble, but I would have to go through my dealer.  So I called my dealer and DNA told them that it was due to a clogged vent line and I needed to come in and have that cleaned out!  I may try another dealer.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Old-Duckman on March 13, 2009, 01:11:43 PM
Quote from: angler on March 13, 2009, 08:30:50 AM
DNA told them that it was due to a clogged vent line and I needed to come in and have that cleaned out!  I may try another dealer.

Another piece of the puzzle.

If the tank does soften (which appears to be the case) with exposure to gasoline. Add to that a blocked vent hose and...well its like blowing up a balloon.

Every tank softens.? some distort slightly and some drastically...Why the difference? The blocked vent may just be the missing link??
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: silentbob on March 13, 2009, 01:31:34 PM
Quote from: Old-Duckman on March 13, 2009, 01:11:43 PM
Another piece of the puzzle.

If the tank does soften (which appears to be the case) with exposure to gasoline. Add to that a blocked vent hose and...well its like blowing up a balloon.

Every tank softens.? some distort slightly and some drastically...Why the difference? The blocked vent may just be the missing link??

If your vent line gets plugged the tank implodes.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: NAKID on March 13, 2009, 03:10:51 PM
Quote from: silentbob on March 13, 2009, 01:31:34 PM
If your vent line gets plugged the tank implodes.

Exactly....
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: mitt on March 13, 2009, 03:13:52 PM
Quote from: NAKID on March 13, 2009, 03:10:51 PM
Exactly....

Maybe people should block their vents on purpose to try and suck the tank back into shape  :)      j/k

mitt
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: herm on March 14, 2009, 05:51:44 AM
hey flounders!
might this thread be worth pinning up somewhere....
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Mother on March 14, 2009, 05:58:26 AM
maybe a child board of Tech? For large scale issues. such as the O2 sensor issue, the flaking rocker issue, battery acid issue, 695 motor finish issue, base gasket issue...etc etc.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: Old-Duckman on March 14, 2009, 07:07:35 AM
Quote from: silentbob on March 13, 2009, 01:31:34 PM
If your vent line gets plugged the tank implodes.

Oh Well...there goes that theory...
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: J.P. on March 14, 2009, 01:52:45 PM
Quote from: Old-Duckman on March 13, 2009, 01:11:43 PM
Another piece of the puzzle.

If the tank does soften (which appears to be the case) with exposure to gasoline. Add to that a blocked vent hose and...well its like blowing up a balloon.

Every tank softens.? some distort slightly and some drastically...Why the difference? The blocked vent may just be the missing link??

And the protruding dimples are petro elves complaining about the open clutch noise? [bang] I got them on both sides and on top of the tank too.
Title: Re: fuel tank prob. - good will warrenty? 06's2r1k
Post by: He Man on March 14, 2009, 02:13:55 PM
seriously man, pics? I just want to be able to say ive seen a plasitc tank with dimples. cause i dont think anyone ever has.