HarleyTechTalk

Technical Forums => General => Topic started by: steelknee57 on August 28, 2009, 03:21:05 PM

Title: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: steelknee57 on August 28, 2009, 03:21:05 PM
The sealer inside of my tank is separating. It looks like a grey paint type material.
I never have used any type of a gas additive or octane booster. I've never heard of this being an issue before.
Can the tank be repaired, or would it be cheaper to by a new tank?

Thanks, Craig

[attachment removed after 60 days by system]
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: truck on August 28, 2009, 03:26:33 PM
If it's fuel injected the mesh bag on the fuel pick up should keep the big pieces out of the fuel system and the fuel filter should keep the smaller pieces at bay.
If it were mine I wouldn't worry about it.
If it's carbureted the screen in the tank could clog and cause you problems.
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: Clintster on August 28, 2009, 05:25:50 PM
I had one that was damaged, the paint was freaked up.  I had the local radiator shop redo it, remove paint and everything, they put a coating kind of a dark red material in it.  That was only because I was repainting it.  Mine was is a 02 RK, from what understand, it is not uncommon for the coating to come off.  If you are in there doing service and just want to get it back together. I would take a small piece of chain and hold it the best you can or wrap it with something soft and move it every way you can.  Break as much of it loose as you can and the run it.  Some folks had a suggestion to take something like this, put small fasteners in the  tank, wrap it in a blanket and put it in a dryer.  I think some have done it, on a gentle cycle wrapped really well, I was afraid to try that.  It is my understanding they didn't use it that many years and are currently not using it.  I was disappointed as all hell to see that, first new Harley and whats this?
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: seattledyna on August 28, 2009, 05:26:50 PM
this has been an on going issue with '02 era HD's, I have resealed many of them, did one two weeks ago and have one on the books for next week. I use an aircraft fuel tank sealer, have used the same brand for 30 years with no problems.

some tanks have no sealer at all in them and seem to be just fine as long as moisture stays out, keeping the tank topped off when stored is a big plus!

some guys just blast out the loose stuff best they can, fill it up and keep on going...the filter will keep the small parts out of the fule system.
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: Clintster on August 28, 2009, 05:46:56 PM
Mike you do this treatment and not damage the finish.  How much is the fee for this service?  I still have my other tank and it may need it, when I pull it apart this winter for filter service.
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: seattledyna on August 28, 2009, 06:01:07 PM
Yes I can do it with out harming the finish, I do a nice tight masking job on the whole tank exterior, and if done right it dosent have to be a messy job :wink:   $125 plus return shipping
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: steelknee57 on August 28, 2009, 06:36:06 PM
Thanks for all your help guys. Mike, you have a PM.
Title: Re: Feul Tank Sealer Flaking Off
Post by: Azgunner on August 28, 2009, 06:45:34 PM
My '02 Dyna sealer was coming off & hanging in big sheets on the inside of my tank. I planned to get it re-sealed, but had an accident & the ins. company bought me a new tank. Painful way to get new parts though, not recommended.