I had a 1987 K100RT whose drive shaft failed at 97000 mi. I now ride a 2003 K1200GT whose first drive shaft failed at 105000 mi. In both cases the failures involved the U joints, and in both cases I was stranded by the failure (I really hate that). Fortunately there was no signifacant damage to the swingarm--replacing the drive shaft corrected the problem.
The GT now has 202000 mi, leading to the following questions:
-What is your experience? Do drive shafts typically have a 100000 mi lifespan, i.e., should I expect another failure is coming soon?
-I had no obvious symptoms of impending failure. Did you notice any signs that a failure was imminent?
-Are there inspection procedures that might suggest that ad U-joint failure is coming?
-If drive shaft life is 100K, have you done a pre-emptive shaft replacement (very expensive part)?
-I have a Clymers manual and reasonable wrenching skills. Are the Clymers descriptions adequate for a replacement project?
-Any experience with using a used shaft from a reputable supplier?
Any and all responses are appreciated. Thanks in advance for your input.
Larry
The GT now has 202000 mi, leading to the following questions:
-What is your experience? Do drive shafts typically have a 100000 mi lifespan, i.e., should I expect another failure is coming soon?
-I had no obvious symptoms of impending failure. Did you notice any signs that a failure was imminent?
-Are there inspection procedures that might suggest that ad U-joint failure is coming?
-If drive shaft life is 100K, have you done a pre-emptive shaft replacement (very expensive part)?
-I have a Clymers manual and reasonable wrenching skills. Are the Clymers descriptions adequate for a replacement project?
-Any experience with using a used shaft from a reputable supplier?
Any and all responses are appreciated. Thanks in advance for your input.
Larry