2012 500i exhaust cam worn out

[mexbum201]

I bought a used 2012 500i with just under 1000 miles in 2016.  It ran great for about a month and then it would not start.  It turned over but would not kick over.  It had spark.  The injector gave off a small puff of fuel.  Maybe compression?  I live on a small island in the state of Washington with no commercial services of any kind.  I trailered the rig via barge to Beast Motor Sports on San Juan island, a Kymco certified repair facility.  The mechanic found that the the lobe on the exhaust cam had worn off to such an extent that the exhaust valves would not open. (I have pics and will post if anyone is interested.)  He suggests that either the cam was faulty or that the original owner had not removed the break-in oil when recommended.  Has anyone run into this problem?  Any thoughts on this matter for the good of the order?  BTW, KymcoUSA sez they have no recalls for this problem.     

[CROSSBOLT]

Mex, there are several posts on 500i cams wearing so fast! Do the pictures, please! The 500i does have roller followers like the 300i, doesn't it?

Karl

[mexbum201]

Attempting to send some pics of the old and new cams...

[mexbum201]

Hope this works...

[mexbum201]

Sending another pic...

[mexbum201]

Sending a 3rd pic...

[CROSSBOLT]

Exhaust lobe on old cam BELOW decompression lobe! That's some wear! Looks like a cam for roller followers on the rockers.

Karl
 

[stiehlm]

You guys are really  upsetting me being the owner of a 2015 500i le. I did a lot of research before purchase and do not remember seeing anything about this. I only have about 80 miles on it so far with zero issues,have not changed break-in fluids yet because of being told not to until 100 miles by my dealer. Is this an issue they have hopefully resolved,or just an instance of pure neglect? Another thing my dealer told me that I find interesting is not to switch to synthetic until after a couple of fluid changes. Any help or insight would be appreciated.

[CROSSBOLT]

I have one that was New-Old-Stock had 16 miles on it. Now have nearly 200 miles on it with no unusual noises yet. Also changed oil as soon as it was home to synthetic.

Karl

[mexbum201]

Mexbum201 here again.  Last September 2, 2016, I reported a problem with the exhaust cam on this lightly used rig. 
The exhaust cam was replaced as reported above and has run very well since  then.  I have probably put 100 hours on it since then.  2 days ago, July 1st, it stopped running just like the previous incident.  Today, I removed the valve spring cover and ran the starter to watch the valve spring action.  The valves springs for the intake valves moved noticeably...but the exhaust valves didn't move a bit!  Needless to say, I am seriously pissed at KYMCO for sending us another defective cam. I will call KYMCO on the 5th and expect to have a serious conversation about their parts and service.  Stay tuned...Ken

[CROSSBOLT]

That really SUX, Ken! I can understand a whole batch that missed heat treat for hardness but once the problem is highlighted there should be action to prevent the mistake from reoccurring. This is a Kymco Taiwan problem! Kymco USA should be all over it. My hometown is Bellevue, WA. Very familiar with a lot of areas up there.

Karl

[mexbum201]

Hi Karl.  I am working with Skagit Power Sports in Burlington on this issue...no response from Kymco USA so far. 

Question for you...can a 500i be towed (slowly) with a towbar to its destination?  Or, do I need to trailer it?  Can't seem to find an answer to this question on this forum.  Thanks, Ken

[CROSSBOLT]

You could pull it out of the woods with another sxs or 4wheeler but not on the highway at posted speeds. There. I covered every possible combination on that one! That based on hoe I think the driveline is put together. 2 wheel drive selected and neutral should do it.

So far, this group has had great success with Kymco US 800 number in getting in touch with either the sales rep for your area or one of the coast managers. This has been effective in getting dealers off their can to either start the warranty process or finishing the work. I think there are several dealers in the country that are very sensitive to customer's needs after the sting of being highlighted by this forum. Give it a try. That little gal that answers the 800 number WILL get someone to call you back. She is your very best friend even if it takes a couple of calls. All business goes through her phone so give her a little slack. I would not wait too long as your local dealer might not be there tomorrow!

Karl

[mexbum201]

Thanks Karl for you insights...I talked to the service mgr at Skagit Power Sports and they seem inclined to cooperate.  But, I will try to connect with Kymco USA on Monday to work that side of the equation.  Will keep you posted as things progress...have a good weekend...I know your weather is favorable.  Later, Ken

[Mickaloe]

Had the same issue with my 2012 uxvi 500
Would not start, checked spark,fuel was all good so checked compression
Would not even register on gauge.
Pulled rocker cover off turned over and noticed the exhaust valves
We're not opening/closing.camshaft lobe is shot and rocker scored.
Ordered new parts online and installed.
When got running I pulled the inspection cap off the rocker checking for oiling
Seemed to be ok. I suspect a bad batch of camshafts.
Had some tiny shavings in oil and strainer cleaned out and added fresh oil.
.will run for a few minutes and repeat the oil change hoping to
Rid of any further deposits.
Side note
My unit wasn't smoking or making any unusual sounds
Before it decided not to start.with that said I am reasonably sure
The cylinder is ok.
Hope this helps someone.