Losing RT panels?

[shelbydave]

I've read on here of people losing their side panels while riding, and while at the BBQ, I noticed Spyderpops adding velcro to the panels while adding his block off plates.
Is this a problem in all years, or just earlier models? We have a 2012, and when I check the oil, sometimes it feels like I'm going to bust the panel! That thing just doesn't pull off real easy. I can't imagine the wind blowing it off. Am I just lucky, or will those rubber grommets loosen up eventually?

 

[yamahog]

Only time I have had any problem with the panels is after dealer service, three times now I have found a lose service panel over oil tank :banghead:

 

[SpyderAnn01]

You can push the grommets through which could cause the panel to come off. The velcro is a cheap way to get peace of mind.

 

[Lamonster]

I've read on here of people losing their side panels while riding, and while at the BBQ, I noticed Spyderpops adding velcro to the panels while adding his block off plates.
Is this a problem in all years, or just earlier models? We have a 2012, and when I check the oil, sometimes it feels like I'm going to bust the panel! That thing just doesn't pull off real easy. I can't imagine the wind blowing it off. Am I just lucky, or will those rubber grommets loosen up eventually?

2012 has pretty much fixed that problem. I think it was fixed in the middle of 2011.

 

[gypsy_100]

2012 has pretty much fixed that problem. I think it was fixed in the middle of 2011.

Agree. You can use water or saliva to make installation easier but don't let anyone use any long-lasting lubricant like grease or silicone. Then you'll have a problem.

 

[NancysToy]

Agree. You can use water or saliva to make installation easier but don't let anyone use any long-lasting lubricant like grease or silicone. Then you'll have a problem.

And don't fail to engage the hook at the top rear of the panel under the adjacent panel. That is another common cause for loss.

 

[samewok]

I have had to show my dealer every time they do the oil change that the tab was not ingaged.

 

[NancysToy]

I have had to show my dealer every time they do the oil change that the tab was not ingaged.

They appear to be slow learners. My condolences!

 

[ThreeWheels]

2012 has pretty much fixed that problem. I think it was fixed in the middle of 2011.

What's the fix?
Can it be retrofitted to a 2010 ?

 

[MouthPiece]

What's the fix?
Can it be retrofitted to a 2010 ?

Yes.

 

[shelbydave]

2012 has pretty much fixed that problem. I think it was fixed in the middle of 2011.

That makes sense. With as much force I have to use to get the panel off, I found it hard to believe that it could blow off.

 

[gypsy_100]

What's the fix?
Can it be retrofitted to a 2010 ?

The front two grommets (upper and lower) are now held in place by a metal plate with two screws holding the plate over the grommet and keeping it in place. They started doing that in early 2011 production. You can quickly see if you have those or not. If not, you can order the individual grommets, metal plates, screws, nuts, etc. or you can get the complete assembly kit with everything you need for the whole side. Also check and make sure you have the latest version of the rear grommet.

 

[viperryder]

Losing RT panels

I've read on here of people losing their side panels while riding, and while at the BBQ, I noticed Spyderpops adding velcro to the panels while adding his block off plates.
Is this a problem in all years, or just earlier models? We have a 2012, and when I check the oil, sometimes it feels like I'm going to bust the panel! That thing just doesn't pull off real easy. I can't imagine the wind blowing it off. Am I just lucky, or will those rubber grommets loosen up eventually?

I have a 2011 RT-SE and have had the rubber gromets replaced with new ones by dealer. They have a new one with ribs to help hold the panel in place. Check with your dealer to see if they have them.:yes:
:yes:

 

[sinkhole]

side panels...

I don't know about the panels on the 2011 and 2012 models, but the main culprit on the 2010's was not properly engaging the front locking tab. This is the one that engages at the oil cooler frame. If this is not engaged, air pressure can build up behind the panel and force it out of its grommets.

 

[NancysToy]

I don't know about the panels on the 2011 and 2012 models, but the main culprit on the 2010's was not properly engaging the front locking tab. This is the one that engages at the oil cooler frame. If this is not engaged, air pressure can build up behind the panel and force it out of its grommets.

...and on later Spyders it was the rear locking tab. The front one was discontinued sometime during 2010.

 

[cmar157]

well it just happened to me on 2012 RT. Driving down the highway it blew off and is destroyed. Has anyone had an luck getting this replaced under warrantee or am I out the cost?

 

[DR Buck]

www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?50828-Cheap-or-No-Cost-Protection-to-keep-From-Losing-Panels

 

[GeoffCee]

That makes sense. With as much force I have to use to get the panel off, I found it hard to believe that it could blow off.

I put i little silicone grease on my side panel grommets so the pegs slide in and out easier. I've never had a side panel blow off but if one did come loose I won't lose it because I've fitted ties to the panels. I used a pair of old camera wrist straps I had lying around.

 

[NancysToy]

I put i little silicone grease on my side panel grommets so the pegs slide in and out easier. I've never had a side panel blow off but if one did come loose I won't lose it because I've fitted ties to the panels. I used a pair of old camera wrist straps I had lying around.

The silicone grease does make panel installation easier, and less likely to push out the grommets, but it can cause the panels to come off while riding. Your is fine, but I wouldn't recommend doing this if you don't have safety straps or velcro secondary attachments. A little spit does the same thing, and dries up quickly so the panels won't come out as easily as they went in.

 

[thehawk]

depending on what you've had to eat recently, they might not come off at all:roflblack:

ewwwwwwwwpps:

thehawk