Motorcycle Gas Tank Treatment

While the outside of a motorcycle tank may be painted, the inside is bare metal.

When a motorcycle gets stored for an extended period of time, the gasoline needs to be removed or it will turn into a sticky, gummy lacquer. However, removing the gas allows the tank to be exposed, which can introduce rust. In response, the tank needs to be cleaned and sealed for storage.

Treatment Need

Motorcycle gas tanks of any decent quality are made of metal with the internal surface consisting of bare metal. When the tank sits for too long without a full level of gasoline, the metal can begin to corrode. This corrosion can ruin the tank and foul the engine without a layer of preventative chemical.

Prevention Kits

Treating a gas tank involves first burning the internal surface of any remaining residue. This is necessary so the protectant can adhere to the surface. Kits frequently include a mild acid to perform the job. Pour the chemical in, swish it around, let it sit for a bit, and then drain. Afterward, the sealant gets applied in the same manner until the entire inside of the tank gets coated and dried.

Reuse After Treatment

When the treated motorcycle will be used again, no work needs to be performed to remove the sealant. Gasoline can be poured into the tank as normal and the motorcycle started. The sealant will dissolve in the gasoline.

References

• Brian Clayton: Brian Clayton's Motorcycle Gas Tank Rust Removal Technique
• Blaine's Motorcycles: How to Use Kreem
• Ebay Guides: How to Use a Kreem Kit

Resources

• Motorcycle Anchor: How to Deal with Rust in your Motorcycle Gas Tank...