Petcock diaphragm is leaking again!!!!

[2qmedic]

  I gotz a problem again.
The petcock diaphragm is leaking. This will be the 3rd in 1 1/2 years, what's going on?
The 1st was just worn, the 2nd one I could find no apparent hole (even under a magnifier). Now it's going bad again!!!!
I just replaced it less than 6 months ago!!!
I can't afford to pull any more of my hair out with this.....
Has anyone else had this many issues with it? Any thoughts???

[hubcapsc]

100 people are going to tell you to switch to a pingle... I guess 100 people can't be wrong... 

If you stick with OEM, here's two important things:

1. the main flap (labeled "3" in this picture) is different on each side, make sure you assemble it right.
   This picture seems clear enough that you should be able to tell which side goes how:

     http://www.valkyrieforum.com/forum/tech_archive.cgi?read=1377679

2. There's a test you can do, after you rebuild the petcock, and before you even screw it back
    onto the tank, that will almost assure that you have got it put back together right:

     http://www.valkyrieriders.com/shoptalk/petcock.htm

Now that it is all back together. Its time to test it to ensure it works properly and won't require pulling the tank back off later. Simply attach a (Clean) rubber hose onto the vacuum nipple. Apply a slight vacuum to the hose while looking down the fuel outlet. Yes, your mouth works great for this! Just don't suck very hard. It's very easy to overcome the spring tension. As you apply vacuum/suction you'll see the diaphragm pull away from the main section. When you release vacuum/suction the diaphragm will SLOWLY return sealing off the flow of fuel. If it does not either you assembled incorrectly or your check valve is still clogged or defective. If all works, you're done!

Good luck!

-Mike

[2qmedic]

Mike,
Thanks for your info. I am aware of the info that you replied with and that is how I check it before installing the tank on the bike. But this is now the 2nd time this has happened.
It first happens at about the 3rd fuel light bar from the bottom and it acts as if it is about to run out of fuel, switching to reserve does nothing to help. Filling with gas gives enough static pressure to keep good fuel flow.
To verify the problem, I apply suction and find that there is a leak. It will not hold. I actually get gas fumes through the vacuum hose, and if I block the weep hole drain, then I will get the proper vacuum.
Also just started smelling fuel in the shed.
Why it works for 5-7k miles and then starts giving trouble again is beyond me.....