VT500 - New Gas Tank/ Storage without a tank?

[JP50515]

Hey guys, I just got a new gas tank in the mail this week. I am planning on repainting both fenders and this new tank, however it has a decent amount of rust in it, not flaking at all but enough surface rust to need removal. Wondering if anyone has some easy ways to get rid of the rust. Also I plan on doing a little chop job on my bike this winter and know that i'll be replacing the old tank with the new one before spring. Wondering if it would be best to simply store the bike without the old tank on or to leave the old one on until I replace it with the new one?

[still_bluenoser]

Fuel tank lining process step by step.

here is a couple ways to remove the rust.


If the old one is rusty than you dont need it on the bike to store. Just drain the carb bowls and let it sit.

[JP50515]

only question about that is how did you prevent the sealer from clogging the hole to the petcock? Just shove a towel or something in there?

[still_bluenoser]

Make sure the strainer is out of it, plug it when you first put in the liner, slosh it around til you know the entire tank is coated, than unplug the drain and get as much of the access liner to come out. The kit instructions usually give a time to go by.

[GrumpyOldMan]

Al foil all squished up can make a great "plug" for about anything - I have used wads of Al foil to plug exhaust ports, fuel tank inlets etc.
It will crush into about any shape you need, won't dissolve, does not absorb liquids, is not flammable etc.
Just don't use it all up or there could be bad consequences when the cook of the house needs some

[JP50515]

oh trust me I'm a huge fan of aluminum foil. Surprisingly it removes rust better than anything. I'll try that.