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Vintage gas tank

MPAllen

New Member
I have an early model Superglide that has not had gas in it since early 70’s. It’s very clean inside except for 3 minor rust spots. I would totally appreciate any suggestions for next steps in the repair process to eventually use this tank on a Superglide. Thanks
 
Chemical cleaning:
Phosphoric acid: Fill the tank with a solution of phosphoric acid, cover the opening, and shake to coat the entire interior. Let it sit for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes), then drain completely and flush with water to remove any remaining chemicals. Let it dry completely before sealing.
Other options: Depending on the severity of rust, you might consider using a commercial rust removal product designed for fuel tanks.

You can look on Youtube as well for more ways. A quick look on Google you can find sealers designed for gas tanks.
 
A good product to treat rust is OSPHO, it contains phosphoric acid. Hard to find in some locals, ACE hardware in my town carries it. Pretty much use it as above instructions. There are also rust products that are more environmentally friendly avail at local auto parts stores, but I've not had much experience with them.
 
Chemical cleaning:
Phosphoric acid: Fill the tank with a solution of phosphoric acid, cover the opening, and shake to coat the entire interior. Let it sit for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes), then drain completely and flush with water to remove any remaining chemicals. Let it dry completely before sealing.
Other options: Depending on the severity of rust, you might consider using a commercial rust removal product designed for fuel tanks.

You can look on Youtube as well for more ways. A quick look on Google you can find sealers designed for gas tanks.
Hi, thanks so much for the info! One more question, if you had a bike that had not ran since 1972 and is in good condition, what would you fix first? Thanks again for your time,
 
A good product to treat rust is OSPHO, it contains phosphoric acid. Hard to find in some locals, ACE hardware in my town carries it. Pretty much use it as above instructions. There are also rust products that are more environmentally friendly avail at local auto parts stores, but I've not had much experience with them.
A good product to treat rust is OSPHO, it contains phosphoric acid. Hard to find in some locals, ACE hardware in my town carries it. Pretty much use it as above instructions. There are also rust products that are more environmentally friendly avail at local auto parts stores, but I've not had much experience with them.
Hi, I was able to find this product and it seems pretty good. Thanks so much for the info!
 
Hi, thanks so much for the info! One more question, if you had a bike that had not ran since 1972 and is in good condition, what would you fix first? Thanks again for your time,

If it were me i'd work at getting it running first. Fresh oil, new plugs and wires, clean gas, new battery and most likely a rebuild on the carb. If it turns over and you have spark and fuel it will run.
Before trying to start it you may want to pull the plugs and squirt a little oil in the cylinders and turn it over a bit to lube the walls. JMHO.
 
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