DEFECT #1 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: ENGINE

Description
Vehicle description: motorcycles.  A spring-loaded thermostatic element in the oil thermostat housing is held in place by a cover that is retained by a snap ring.  The snap ring may not have been properly installed during production.  During vehicle operation, the snap ring could unseat, allowing the cover to loosen or detach, resulting in loss of the entire oil volume.

Consequence
Engine damage could occur if the engine is not immediately switched off.  In addition, oil could travel along the engine cover and ultimately contact the rear tire, reducing its traction and affecting the stability of the motorcycle, possibly resulting in a crash and personal injury.

Corrective Action
Dealers will inspect the snap ring installation and if the snap ring is not fully seated, the complete oil pump intermediate flange will be replaced.

Notes
Owner notification began october 13, 2000.  Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117, option #5.  Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).