Is your motorcycle gas tank damaged? If so, you should replace it immediately to prevent any possible consequences. Fuel is flammable, and if it leaks, it could come in contact with some heated components or even you. It’s a safety hazard you want to prevent.
Damage can happen for several reasons, from actual crash to simple internal corrosion. To remove it, you’ll need some basic hand tools and a little time. The process shouldn’t be complicated, although it might vary slightly depending on the type of bike you have.
Continue reading to learn how to remove a motorcycle gas tank and what tools you’ll need.
Tools You'll Need
- Socket wrench
- Sockets
- Allen wrench set
- Replacement gas tank (if you’re replacing the old one)
Before You Begin
Make sure that all your tools are within hands reach and ready to go. No special preparation is needed except letting your bike cool if you’ve been riding it before this.
Fuel might drop and ignite on the bike’s exhaust or motor. This could lead to serious injury, so it’s crucial you allow the bike some time to cool after your last ride. Also, avoid any open flame since fuel is flammable and should be brought near it.
Step 1: Unscrew Seat Bolts
Use an Allen wrench to remove the rider’s seat bolts. You can also use the release mechanism if the seat has any.
Step 2: Remove Bolts on Gas Tank
There’s a pair of bolts located on the upper half of the gas tank that needs removing. They’re near the handlebars and are quite easy to spot. Use the Allen wrench to remove them.
Step 3: Remove Pivot Bolt
Use a socket wrench to remove the pivot bolt from the tank’s base. It’s located near the seat rails and is also quite easy to find and remove.
Step 4: Pull Off Fuel Line
Now you want to lift the tank slightly and pull the fuel line off of the valve or pump. You’ll find them on the left side. This is a crucial step, so make sure not to skip it.
Step 5: Removal
At this point, you should be able to simply pull the tank off the bike. If you’re not able to, you might have another screw holding it somewhere depending on the motorcycle model you have.
Want to wash it? See our gas tank cleaning guide.
The Difference with Cruisers and Older Models
Cruisers are somewhat different than some older models when it comes to many things. However, removing a motorcycle tank remains somewhat the same. You might have a few bolts more or less, but they’re all located in the areas we’ve mentioned above, so it’s unlikely you’ll miss them.
Another thing you’ll maybe have to do is lift the back of your tank upward and pull it towards the end of the motorcycle in order to remove it. Use some force to free it from the mounting bosses on the frame.
Conclusion
At this point, you probably understand how the process isn’t at all complicated. It takes some time and minimal skill set for you to do this on your own. As long as you have the right tools, you shouldn’t have any issues with removal.
Make sure none of the components are hot in order to prevent any possible complications and injuries. Other than that, you’re safe to do this the way we’ve described.
