Yes, there were two instances of driveshaft problems that I am aware of: the first was the driveshaft that disassembled and removed itself from the bike (read: exploded)- that was a catastrophic failure although the rider was not injured and the bike did not crash. The second thing I remember was one person who had a C-14 where one of the driveshaft boots was cut by a loose and displaced 'C' clip from inside the trunion. No real harm done but that certainly would have gotten worse had it been ignored.
My point was that the internet hubbub that followed was all out of proportion. I believe we (C-14 owners) have a better chance of being stuck by lightening but we don't seem to be worried about that. I am all for discussing things, anticipating things and even speculating about possible future events. I just think that the Internet cries of panic set in a little too fast and then the flames are fanned by more and more people until the original events themselves are forgotten and buried in the new, internet 'truth' about the disaster de jour. This forum seems especially prone to it, at least compared with the few other motorcycle forums I pay any attention to at all. The major FJR forum has less whining and far more work- arounds and solutions, at least in my opinion.
In the end, by all means, check the driveshaft and anything else on the bike that is of concern. Use preventative maintenance and always try to catch problems early. If it is desirable to the particular owner, by all means lube the driveshaft and / or anything else on the bike.... and then let it go.
At least that was the point I was trying to make Mick. Not to minimize reality, just sticking fairly close to it.
Brian
Brian,
There WERE a few bearing caps with loose retainers or NO retaining clips IIRC. A couple of those had catastrophic destruction too. I agree, it's wasn't a lot of failures but they were a concern for a while.
Mick
