Keeping those darn side panels on...

Just an idea that I used to keep the side panels on my maxim. I am sure everyone has had the rubber grommets crumble on them and may have been wondering how to replace without actually going out and finding OEM replacements. Well, I took a spark plug boot and cut it into about 3/4" (sorry metric guys) pieces, then I took my trusty exacto knife, razor, whatever you want, and cut down the sides so it looked like an hourglass (careful not to cut too deep, just stay within the rubber) I slipped it through the holes and put the side panels back on. Viola!! You have now fixed that problem for about a buck. Hope this can help SOMEONE!!

 

I bought some at the stealership. I think they were $2 apiece. $8, side covers are secure and I'm off to other things.

 

A supremely well-stocked hardware store will have the same rubber grommets without individual packaging.

Seca 750 and 900 Owners should replace their old ones if the side covers are loose and rattling around.

Adding a "Security Tether" isn't a bad idea, either ... particularly if you sides are Original and you've found them -- unfastened and in jeopardy of falling off.

A short piece of sash cord or small diameter nylon line will save the day if one gets loose on you while you on a road trip.

 

Thanks for the posts on this one. I found one of my side panel grommets crumbled just the other day and was thinking "Where the hell am I gonna get one of these?"

Off to the hardware store!

 

My sode panels have the two rubbers and a "spigot" with a flared end on the top of the panel.
Both of my spigots snapped from use over the years so I just drilled a small screw in and wrapped it with electrical tape for padding and my panels have never been tighter. Bojang job but it works well.
Just a thought...

 

I ordered XS grommets. Same thing as on our maxims.
Foot peg rubbers are also the same.
http://www.mikesxs.net/