Plastic Tank problems: Discussion thread, see info thread sticky for updates

[Heath]

Tank is replaced

[jgrm1]

My tank is on order.  All it took was emailing the Service Manager of my nearest dealer photos of the front of the tank rubbing against the ignition switch assembly and the right side frame pad not lining up with the frame (same photos posted above).  I asked if there are any changes to the new tanks so this does not repeat.  He told me that they have not seen any reoccurrence with replacement tanks, but if it takes two years to manifest, I am not sure they would, yet.  I will ask the installer when the new tank arrives to compare it with the original and report my findings.

-Jeff

[Heath]

We looked at the new one vs the old and the only differences we saw was the bottom of the tank, right above where the battery sits is bigger.  This was also confirmed when we tried to close the tank.  My PCIII was sitting on my battery but the tank would not go down with it there.  So now I have to find a new spot for my PCIII or get one of the smaller A123 type batteries.  I will move it for now.

The insides of the tank looked exactly the same.

[Dave328]

FWIW, my dealer told me the replacement tanks were different and no more swelling should occur. He couldn't tell me what was different though.

[duccarlos]

Tank arrived on Friday. Took just over a week to get. Not sure if that is because it's a Dark, but I'm taking it in tomorrow to replace. The tanks are still the same, but I'm going to buy an additive that to deal with the ethanol.

[jgrm1]

My tank is on order.  All it took was emailing the Service Manager of my nearest dealer photos of the front of the tank rubbing against the ignition switch assembly and the right side frame pad not lining up with the frame (same photos posted above).  I asked if there are any changes to the new tanks so this does not repeat.  He told me that they have not seen any reoccurrence with replacement tanks, but if it takes two years to manifest, I am not sure they would, yet.  I will ask the installer when the new tank arrives to compare it with the original and report my findings.

-Jeff

My tank is already in.  It took only a week to recieve it.  I have an appointment this Saturday to have it installed.

-Jeff

[duccarlos]

Mine is installed. Now I just need to pick it up.

[Duckintime]

Glanced at my bike on the way out to work... had my tank replaced 11 months ago. Guess what, mis fitting and dimpling again. 

[Popeye the Sailor]

Glanced at my bike on the way out to work... had my tank replaced 11 months ago. Guess what, mis fitting and dimpling again. 

So, out of curiousity,  do you still stand by your previous statement?

I wouldnt let that stop you from ordering one. The bike far out weighs the possibilities of  any tank issues. The tank is emission control. So its even warrantied further than the standard warranty
All bikes have their issues. So buying something else isnt going to guarantee anything.
A few brands come to mind that are more "terminal" than a expanding tank. Just my 2 cents

[Duckintime]

So, out of curiousity,  do you still stand by your previous statement?

Glad you asked.. and honestly, I do feel jaded about it. The bike does everything I want it to, its a great designed bike for my needs. Had it finally dialed in.  But for Ducati to come up short on a gas tank design?? If it was a rat bike, I wouldnt care. Would it stop me from buying a new ducati? I dont think so, but it would be something in the back of my mind. Id rather have the fuel tank issues than some of the probs from other bikes.
On the bright side, its not a toyota.... my throttle does go back to idle  

[duccarlos]

Got mine back. Will be using the enzyme to counter act the ethanol.

[jgrm1]

Got mine back. Will be using the enzyme to counter act the ethanol.

What enzyme?

-Jeff

[duccarlos]

There's an additive that people have been using mostly on boat engines to counter the ethenol. My local dealer is starting to sell it to avoid these issues. I need to check if I have to add it every time I fill up. I got a flyer, but my daughter got a hold of it, so it has been "misplaced".

[Charlief]

Soltron Enzyme Fuel Treatment ?

Boaters also use Marine Stabil

[duccarlos]

Soltron Enzyme Fuel Treatment ?

Sounds familiar.