Author Topic: Fuel tank cleaning  (Read 2724 times)

Offline Coop

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Fuel tank cleaning
« on: October 28, 2018, 01:44:11 PM »
Hi guys,
Given my recent issues with a large amount of scale in the upper and lower fuel tanks from oxidization, I have now ordered a new fuel pump and filter from Partzilla and have managed to clean out the lower tank to the point where there is no discolouration of fuel when it is filled.
Whilst I am awaiting the new pump and filter, I still need to clean the scale out of the upper tank.
What methods and/or products have people found to work the best?
« Last Edit: October 28, 2018, 03:42:06 PM by Coop »
 

Offline Biggles

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #1 on: October 28, 2018, 05:32:34 PM »
I've never had the problem. But I know there is a variety of wire brushes on a long twisted wire handle. If you can find one of those that's long enough to get to the bottom that would hopefully shift any loose stuff.  There are anti-rust chemicals available that might be worth applying to the empty tank.  I wonder if there's a two-pack product that could be used to seal the corroded surface.  Someone else will know.
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Offline Gadget

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #2 on: October 28, 2018, 06:37:25 PM »
Or possibly a second hand tank from a parts bike.

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Offline Biggles

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #3 on: October 28, 2018, 07:44:15 PM »
Or possibly a second hand tank from a parts bike.

Definitely the preferred route. Even if it involved a repaint, it would be simpler and safer.
For the modern man who lives in the city, riding a bike might be one of the only ways to escape the humdrum monotony. To take off and ride. To be both at one with nature and one with the bike. To feel masculine. Adam Piggott

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Online Williamson

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #4 on: October 28, 2018, 07:54:15 PM »
Or possibly a second hand tank from a parts bike.


Definitely the preferred route. Even if it involved a repaint, it would be simpler and safer.

Or https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/HONDA-ST1300A-FUEL-TANK/123414837335?hash=item1cbc18f857:g:EuIAAOSwW9JbRWZx:rk:6:pf:0

And cheaper than a pannier.
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Offline Biggles

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For the modern man who lives in the city, riding a bike might be one of the only ways to escape the humdrum monotony. To take off and ride. To be both at one with nature and one with the bike. To feel masculine. Adam Piggott

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Offline Yorkie

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #6 on: October 28, 2018, 09:07:38 PM »
To clean tanks on old bikes I fill with vinegar and let sit for a few days, give a good rinse with water and let dry.
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Online Williamson

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #7 on: October 28, 2018, 09:08:56 PM »
Mmmm!  A red one!   ;-*

Maybe I could slowly change my ST to red.
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Offline Biggles

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #8 on: October 29, 2018, 05:22:17 PM »
Mmmm!  A red one!   ;-*

Maybe I could slowly change my ST to red.

Might look a bit harlequin during the transition.
For the modern man who lives in the city, riding a bike might be one of the only ways to escape the humdrum monotony. To take off and ride. To be both at one with nature and one with the bike. To feel masculine. Adam Piggott

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Offline STroppy

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #9 on: October 29, 2018, 08:03:30 PM »
I’m sure that if you go to a bike shop they can give you some advice re cleaning and recoating the inside of a fuel tank. I remember reading something about using special products to rejuvenate a fuel tank.
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Offline Yorkie

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #10 on: October 29, 2018, 08:55:40 PM »
There are a couple of products available to coat your tank, Redkote is one which comes to mind however for cleaning the inside, also carbys vinegar is what is used, a very weak acid does wonders and is used by car and bike restorers world wide.
Brian 0418937173
Manager York Motor Museum

In the shed
1999 ST1100A
1971 CB750K2
1980 XV750
1977 GL1000
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So at what age does this "old enough to know better" kick in?
I believe in the "hereafter", every time I go to the shed I have to think "what am I here after"
 
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Offline STroppy

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Re: Fuel tank cleaning
« Reply #11 on: October 30, 2018, 07:38:38 AM »
There are a couple of products available to coat your tank, Redkote is one which comes to mind however for cleaning the inside, also carbys vinegar is what is used, a very weak acid does wonders and is used by car and bike restorers world wide.

Thanks Brian, luckily I have never had to restore a tank, others I know have, good to know what to use.
Terry, Canberra 0412499625
Ulysses #22354, FarRider #761
Current bikes 2013 Triumph Trophy SE, 2008 ST1300
Previous bikes1948 Triumph Tiger 500 Twin - sprung rear hub, 1963 BSA Bantam 175, Yamaha 75cc & DT250, Honda ST1100, 400N & CX500 sports, BMW K100RS & K100 LT, Harley Electra-glid