Vario panniers mechanism

[Dale]

Has anyone tried to lubricate the expanding mechanism in the vario panniers?

I have noticed that over the last few months the bar is getting more and more difficult to move to the point that I am afraid it might break soon.

The mechanisms are clean and nothing has got jammed in them, they obviously just need a little lube ... so what to use?

Had thought about using a graphite powder, silicone spray or regular grease but not sure how any of these will react with the plastic.

I didn't get a little booklet with the panniers (BM seem to have a little booklet for everything - even gloves!) so perhaps the answer is in there. If someone has the little book can you have a look please?

Dale

 

[Skippy]

Mucky stuff. Not good!

Lube in the mechanism will get onto anything you put in there I would think.

Call BM dealer and give them back for them to sort.

Skip.

 

[Deleted account 211025001]

All they should need is a small application of silicone to the pannier case halfs (on the outside) where they slide over each other. The mechanism itself should not need lubing.

HTH
Andres

 

[stephenm]

Has anyone tried to lubricate the expanding mechanism in the vario panniers?

Had thought about using a graphite powder, silicone spray or regular grease but not sure how any of these will react with the plastic.



Dale

When mine became stiff to operate, I expanded them and sprayed silicone lubricant on the overlapping plastic area, inside and out, using the thin tube supplied to squirt some under the sliding surfaces. I wiped the excess off with a dry cloth. Has been perfect for 12 months since, in daily use.

Stephen

 

[North]

I found my Top case BMW booklet.

For Cleaning and care, it just says to "use a mild soap solution and soft sponge. Never use gasoline or other solvents".

There is nothing about lubing the mechanism in the booklet.

Rick

 

[(RIP) Bin Ridin]

I used silicon spray, I would say polish like Mr.Sheen or Son of a Giun would do a good job. Not WD40 or anything that dust will stick too.

 

[Dale]

thanks for all the advice. A little silicone spray and all's happy again

Aint this list great!

Dale