Rust in the fuel tank!

[Hammer]

Hi guys,

I have a 2008 ST1300.

 

The last time I fueled the bike was in October 2013. When garaged the fuel level was low. I went to use the bike this weekend and it would not start. I found surface rust in the fuel tank and assume rust would also be in the lower tank. I assume the fuel filter is clogged and perhaps the fuel pump is either clogged or seized!!

I am thinking the worst!
 
The rust has occurred only since October 2013, as I always inspect the tank whilst fueling. The summer here has been extreme so I guess the remaining fuel in the take has sweated causing the rusting.

Any suggestions, recommendations, any idea how difficult the job will be to remove, clean, treat the tanks?

Help please.

Thanks

Hammer.

[StinkyPete]

Hi Hammer and welcome to the forum.   Rust in the tank!   
I'm not sure what can be done, but someone on the forum might have some ideas.

Can  suggest that you also post on the  "Introduce Yourself & Your Bike" thread, and say "Hello" to all the Forum members.   

[Biggles]

Welcome to the forum.
You've broken a record- we've never heard of the problem.  While the weather might have been extreme, it would take unheard-of humidity to get enough moisture in a tank to actually cause enough rust to have some flake off and block the filter!
The top tank comes of reasonably easily- three bolts and a mess of pipes.  The bottom tank is buried under the seat. 
Have you had a look at the online copy of the manual?

[STeveo]

Welcome Hammer.
Change you filter first, and fresh fuel. Can you hear the pump running when you switch the key on? Check for fuel pressure. Was the fuel so low that the pump was exposed, maybe it is just stuck. Fresh fuel and leave soak for a couple of days and it may free itself.

 

[alans1100]

Does the 1300 have an automatic fuel shut off valve?

I know the 1100 does and with the bike sitting for a while it's possible the fuel has evaporated between the shut off valve and the injectors. The shut off valve is vacuum operated so it might take a while to get fuel where it's needed. Just a thought.

[Abe]

Hi Hammer,

My mate has used this on his car petrol tank and loves it:-

http://www.por15.com/FUEL-TANK-REPAIR-KIT_p_62.html

there are Australian distributors and other brands as well.