big problem with my OEM pannier

My right aluminum pannier off my 2014 800GSA is defective. It leaks like crazy. Anytime I'm riding in the rain or simply parked somewhere where it's raining, it fills up with water. I was going through Trails End BMW here in Fairbanks to do a warranty exchange. I started this process three weeks ago. I have a 4000 mile trip I'm starting on Thursday. I just got word from Trails End that BMW didn't approve my claim and nothing was shipped. WTF am I supposed to do now? The pannier is unusable. Drill holes in the bottom?

Go back to dealer and have the manager get ahold if the regional rep....


See if the helps

Buy another now and enjoy your trip. Sue for damages when you return.

Fred

If I was about to head out on a trip I would figure out where it is leaking and fix it.

1) Silicon caulking if it is one of the seams.
2) Remove inspect and replace the rubber seal that sits in the channel
3) loosen and adjust the hinge locks to get a more positive fit.
4) put some kind of riser on the inside bottom of the panner, plastic cardboard material comes to mind to keep stuff off the bottom if a puddle forms.

I put crucial gear in thin dry bags even if it is in the pannier like clothing, electronics.

Just a thought..

might be worth doing some investigating on your end to find the leak
could be something minor

They tried replacing the gasket, it didn't work. When we looked at it closer it looks like there is a "bend" along the box. So when the lid closes it can't get a straight and flush seal. The dealer looked at the one other brand new pannier they had in stock and it had the same bend. We tested it by simulating some rain with a low pressure hose and it leaked the same way. I'm guessing both of these came off the assembly line right after each other with the same manufacturing defect. So that rules out buying a new one here.

The only things I can think of now are to use risers and drain periodically (as you suggested) or use duct tape around the seal. I'm on hold with a BMW "resolution specialist" right now.

fill it half way with water and turn it over to see where the water runs out

Varios leak, Aluminums leak.

First time you overpack it and force the lid closed the seals misalign and leak. First drop, seals leak. They bend easy, they bend back easy.

Bag liners are made for this reason.

Electrical tape the leading edges following a bad weather report.

My tools are all rusty.





shut up loutre

Buy some liner bags and go enjoy your trip.

Fred

Put a smear of corn oil on the rubber lid seal. Carefully close the lid. Remove lid and examine the mating surface for the presence of oil. Where it is dry is the leak. Remedy the defect (may be twisted, in which case untwist it)

I like dry bag and the riser idea. You can also get 2-3 infant diapers to bring along on your trip and lay one in the bottom to collect the water for when it rains. Change when the pannier starts crying.

I purposely sold my oem racks and bags.
Bought a different setup I knew I could rely on.
Happy trails racks and top loading 1430 pelican cases is what I have found works best.
Aluminum cases leak, dent, and fall part.
I did a full summer of off roading(TAT) with my drops on a 500lb motorcycle than I can remember and my pelicans have just a few scratches.
PM if you want me details.

I found my right hand case tended to flex on the inner side where the cutout is. I could actually hear it popping in and out as I rode over rough ground. I added some bracing inside to stiffen that spot and have not had any more trouble with that.

I used to get water in the left bag and found that when I hit a cold rain shower it seemed to draw the water in. My 09 bags did not have the air vents on them so I added them on and have not had trouble with it any more either.

I've beat the hell out of my bags and bent them back straight (somewhat) and still they stay dry.

Izzat a sump pump?

Hydraulic spreader to coax the bag back into shape

You could be onto something here.. A warm/hot pannier that cools down would create a vacuum inside and suck water in when wet. .. Like a differential/axle assembly during a water crossing... Even if the seals are good.

I agree wiyh Reaver... All aluminum panniers will eventually leak... Get a liner bag!

And hurry. You leave tomorrow.

Fred

I wonder how his trip is going.

Hopefully happy trails, smooth sailing, cold beer, hot & wet women, and dry panniers...