2011 M 696 Shaking Gas Tank

[wiggsmeister]

Hey everyone,

I bought a used 2011 696 (3100 miles) in November 2011. My gas tank is now shaking and has been for a while. I was talking with another duc owner yesterday and he was saying that's a common problem with the tanks because they're platisc, and the ethanol warps them over time.

He went on to say that I can take it to the dealer (Beverly Hills Ducati) and they'll replace it for free because it's under warranty for 2 years from the time of purchase.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

thanks!

[Raux]

tank or tank panels are shaking?

doubt you'll get a replacement unless it's leaking

check to ensure all the bolts are on the panels. if the two side bolts near where your knees sit aren't in, you'll get a little movement on the panels.

if it's the actual tank UNDER the panels. there are three things to check.
first, there is a bolt under the tail of the bike, at the back of the tank, ensure it's tight, BUT don't overtighten and don't use locktite
second, ensure the rubber bushings are in the frame where the tank mounts go into the frame. te single piece one goes on the left side, the double piece goes on the right.
third, ensure there is only one bolt on those mounts, the right side with the double piece.

One additional thing you can check is if the actual inserts that are bolted to the tank are loose or tight, but I doubt this is the issue.

[Enzoman]

When I was taking my tank off the bolt for the right side rubber mount was missing but the left side had a bolt. I thought maybe it vibrated loose and fell out. But your saying the right side should have a bolt and not the left? Both tank mounts are threaded aren't they?

[Raux]

there should only be one bolt

it really should be the right side (clutch side)

[SpikeC]

 When I got my '09 M1100 there were no bolts at the front tank mounts, and I believe that it had only been worked on by the dealership. It seems fine without, and I see no reason to put one in as the tank does not wobble!

[Raux]

the rubber mount on one side is in two pieces and the front can fall out.

[ungeheuer]

there should only be one bolt

it really should be the right side (clutch side)

Weird.  My clutch is on the left side.

But its true, there's only one bolt out of the factory.

[ducpainter]

Weird.  My clutch is on the left side.

But its true, there's only one bolt out of the factory.

Not if you're sitting on the bike.   

[SpikeC]

  The clutch, not the clutch lever!

[wiggsmeister]

Thanks for all the input everyone.

and regarding the clutch argument.. it;s all a natter of perspective

[ungeheuer]

  The clutch, not the clutch lever!

[wiggsmeister]

see, I'm not crazy!

http://www.ducatinewstoday.com/2010/11/ducati-sued-over-faulty-gas-tanks/

[wiggsmeister]

Also, for those worried about this, look into getting your tank epoxy coated if you're worried about warping. I'm thinking about doing it myself..

[Raux]

You do realize we're a few years into this information.

[danaid]

You do realize we're a few years into this information.

   


  The tank on my 696 greatly expanded one summer, but it did not wiggle. It was actually wedged into place needing a mallet to remove it from its base. Also the tank spread the tank panels apart at the base of the seat, but no wobble.