I was surprised (actually shocked) to Polaris' response to a question about getting the crush washers for the transmission so I have replacements when I do the next oil change. The parts book shows the washers and the note "see dealer" as no part numbers are given. My bike is a Victory Empulse, still under warranty so this isn't a Brammo/Victory thing. The dealer was told that the crush washers are part of the transmission and are not serviced separately. I could, however, buy the complete assembly for around $3,500 and the crush washers would be included. Other than the cost, I guess that would be fine except I would have to replace transmissions every 600 miles as they need an initial oil change (which requires crush washer replacement if necessary). The correct answer from Polaris should have been that they either have the maintenance parts or they are sourcing them to provide for their customer base. Five years of "parts" and service and ten years of parts availability don't mean much if the part is part of an "assembly". I suppose if I had a victory IC motorcycle and asked for an oil filter, I shouldn't be surprised when I am told it is only available as part of the engine assembly and not serviced separately.
This does not bode well for me to make decisions to buy other Polaris products. I have owned their 4 wheelers and snowmobiles in the past and am looking right now to buy a side by side off road vehicle. I know I bought an orphan, but I expect some sort of service after the sale---at a minimum through the warranty period. The dealer (whom Polaris also treated like crap) is trying to find a source for the crush washers and has been very helpful on a couple of other matters related to this motorcycle. I think there must be some cultural problem with Polaris management to treat legacy customers (Brammo), their own customers and their dealer network with such distain.
BTW--I did find a part number for the transmission gasket kit ($150). I have no idea what's in it but I ordered it so that if I ever have to take the POS transmission apart, at least I will have gaskets and seals (maybe crush washers) for it. However, when the dealer placed the order, the part was backordered, no timeframe for restocking known. More good service.
