Saddlebags popping open

[Fat Baxter]

My saddlebags have popped open 3 times recently, twice on the left, once on the right. Lost a rainsuit before I noticed the warning on the display. Yes, I always lock the saddlebags before rolling, and yes, I close the lids firmly. I have learned not to carry anything in the bags (thank God for the frunk!)

I'm wondering if its a lubricant problem, but before I start spraying WD-40 everywhere, I figured I'd ask around first. Does the locking mechanism (pins/latches/whatever) require some form of periodic lubrication? If so, does WD-40 suffice, or is there some sort of dry lubricant recommended?

Thanks!

[Ex-Rocket]

Be nice to know what model Spyder you have and if they are aftermarket bags.

[Roadster Renovations]

Might try loosening up the adjusters. They may be too tight and vibration is causing them to open. They are above the license plate behind the tupperwear.

Hope that helps.

[Centurion]

My saddlebags have popped open 3 times recently, twice on the left, once on the right. Lost a rainsuit before I noticed the warning on the display. Yes, I always lock the saddlebags before rolling, and yes, I close the lids firmly. I have learned not to carry anything in the bags (thank God for the frunk!)

I'm wondering if its a lubricant problem, but before I start spraying WD-40 everywhere, I figured I'd ask around first. Does the locking mechanism (pins/latches/whatever) require some form of periodic lubrication? If so, does WD-40 suffice, or is there some sort of dry lubricant recommended?

Thanks!

Make sure that the small cable tether for the outer cover is not interfering with the closure of the door. I had to slightly adjust the angle of the connector so the cable would not get pinched when closed on itself.

[Peter Aawen]

Be nice to know what model Spyder you have and if they are aftermarket bags.

According to Fat's Profile, it's a 2014 RT-S..... which would sorta tie in with the 'warning on the dash' lighting up when the lids pop open.

Before you go hitting the latches with any 'lubricant' or WD-40 (that will probably attract & collect dust & grit over time!) I'd be looking at the latch adjustment Fat, cos if the latch is locked but still letting the 'lid' pop open (the 'locked' bit implying the latch isn't able to move at all, so it shouldn't be THAT inadverently moving &/or releasing, as it might if it's left unlocked & the cable is catching or dragging on anything; nor should it be allowing any similar 'unwanted catch release events' due to the latch opening when it shouldn't....) then the latch itself can't be closing & locking on the pin ENOUGH to secure it, if you get my drift!!

If you still hafta UN-lock the latch to re-close the lid or open it again, it adds weight to the argument that the latch is not adjusted properly, & probably only just catching the pin, so that any flex or movement in the body panels or lid can move the supposedly latched, trapped, & locked pin, thereby releasing it & letting the door open despite the latch being locked!!

The glovebox manual does have a section on adjusting those latches, I'm not sure about page number for the 2014's, but it shouldn't be too hard to find. I reckon that'll fix your problem, and do it without adding anything that might collect dust & grit in the latch mechanism too! Good Luck!

Ps: another thing worth checking is the hinges... they have been known to crack the 'plastic' they are mounted in before failing completely, & that might be letting the other end of the lid move around a little - and that might be just enough to let the pin escape from the locked latch mechanism!

[Fat Baxter]

Be nice to know what model Spyder you have and if they are aftermarket bags.

Good point, but I figured since this was the RT forum.......

Peter: Thanks for the heads-up on the latch adjustment!

[Roadster Renovations]

adjusters.jpg

If you need the location, circled areas.

[Fat Baxter]

adjusters.jpg

If you need the location, circled areas.

Thanks! That's a big help!

[ofdave]

would something as simple as locking the bags prevent this?

[Tazzel]

would something as simple as locking the bags prevent this?

He says that he locks them but they are still popping open.

[ofdave]

Nope. The lock by the opening levers only secures the levers it doesn't change the fact that mechanism at the bags is not adjusted or latching properly.

caught that the second reading

[cptjam]

Might try loosening up the adjusters. They may be too tight and vibration is causing them to open. They are above the license plate behind the tupperwear.

Hope that helps.

I believe Doc is right - cables too tight, a bump lets them open. Loosen a turn on the adjusters. Joe