Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge Triumph incompetence continues

So I had decided to just take the top end off of my 2005 America due to a persistent backfire/spitting issue. My biggest fear was being able to get the parts I would need without the bike sitting disassembled for weeks, but had to do it to verify the problem. I have a Triumph dealer about 10 miles from my house, and they all know me well in the parts department. I ordered everything I needed, which arrived a week later. But ordering the correct piston rings, which they CANT GET RIGHT.... So here I am waiting , bike has been disassembled 3 weeks now, and I'm STILL waiting on the correct rings. 1st set came in, WAY too big. Wait a week, 2nd set comes in, all correct except 1 pack has incorrect oil control ring, Now waiting on 3rd attempt of getting rings right. If you EVER need parts for your America or Speedmaster, GOOD LUCK! Triumph part acquisition SUX!

I have never had an issue with parts from Hermys.

I'd blame dealer !! I've never had an issue

How did you decide that the top end needed rebuilding. Was there more to your decision that just back firing and spiting?

Curious that you would not get parts before starting a planned tear down. Especially if you were concerned about time to completion.


Fwiw I have (so far) rebuilt several of the Hinckley twins and not had problems getting parts. My nearest dealer is very good though.

C'mon guys, the guys hurtin! Sounds like the dealership is dropping the ball. Sorry for your luck.

Oh, I ordered the parts, but I knew the cylinder head probably had a couple of burnt valves that would require at least a week of shop work to get done. The machine shop is on the north end of Atlanta, and since some crackhead burnt down I-85, just getting to the shop would be a nightmare.
The dealer really pushed my patience when the young millinial behind the counter asked me if I was SURE I owned an America and not another Triumph? When I went to exchange the 2nd set of rings for the incorrect first set, the cashier wanted $62 more dollars!!! That's when I met Connie, the manager. She was very nice, and started giving me T-shirts and making promises. I asked her to PLEASE order 2 sets to increase our odds of getting the correct rings. She claims they were "overnited" and would be here Tuesday....
This bike has been nothing short of AMAZING! I've owned her 12 years now and she still looks like new. The quality of the engines are superior, and I am convinced she is worth every penny of the $624 this has cost me so far. The 2 exhaust valves on the right cylinder were burnt beyond serviceability due to incorrect float settings on the right carb. Head and cylinder barrel on bench awaiting rings still, but hop to have her running again by Sunday....

Never had a problem with my dealer ordering parts or service. Your story only makes me appreciate them more. Your post seems to indicate that while POed, you are handling the SNAFU well, probably due to your profession. I on the other hand would have tools embedded in the drywall of my garage. Good luck on your rebuild, keep us informed.

300+ miles on her now after re-assembly. Odometer rolled over 75,000 yesterday. Runs and pulls like new!