Hi, I am enjoying my recently purchased 2013 Pikes peak but last night when i went to fuel it up i found it hard to get the key into and out again of the filler cap is this a common issue? John.
Sound like the previous owner didnt lube the lock, id put some wd40 or similar down the key hole and give it a good seeing to with the key, leave for a few hours and hopefully the lock should be as good as new
I second that. Not just a Ducati problem. Every lock that is left in the elements will eventually clog if it's not taken care of properly.
Cheers I've done that and it seems to have eased up. Odd to find this as the dealer filled the bike up before delivery and I'm sure they would have noticed it...
I'd use something different to WD40, WD becomes gummy after a while, I'd use something specifically for locks containing graphite.
+1 Definitely needs oiling. Mine was exactly the same. Not WD40 though, try GT80 or better still ACF50.
Or you could fit the optional electronic fuel filler cap; then you will never have problems with the key hole again.
If you were at a fuel stop on the road, you could undo the six surround screws with a 5mm allen key and lift the whole assembly far enough to get some petrol in - this would delay you all of five minutes. Then you could take it to a Ducati agent and get them to fix it. My electronic cap has been used for 40,000 miles of riding and has never gone wrong yet, so I wouldn't worry.
Removing the screws is the final option. I have had mine not open three times in 5 years. In all cases I unplugged it and plugged it back in. Not exactly a big deal and the others with me didn't even realise there was a problem. Just make sure who ever fits it places the connector where you can get at it. Personally I think it's a great accessory.
Mine (electric type) caused me a Sunday afternoons consternation on a Euro tour, but eventually threw the towel in and opened. I have taken the Allen bolts out, but it didn't appear to be an easy, straight lift out due to the wiring and tubing? With the benefit of hindsight, I wish they had swerved the whole electronic key thing and just put a normal ignition switch/fuel cap arrangement on.
