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Should I clean my gas tank first, or take care of it later?

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by DarrenH, May 6, 2016.

  1. DarrenH

    DarrenH Member

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    I'm starting the overhaul of my xj650 Maxim and I'm deciding on what to do first. I've emptied out the gas tank and a bunch of rust came out. I'm probably going to go the vinegar and nuts/bolts route to clean my gas tank but I've also heard of the flash rust problem. I won't be getting this thing running in a while so putting gas in doesn't seem any useful. Should I just let it sit or is more rust develop during the few months? Should I clean it now?
     
    DarrenH, May 6, 2016
    #1
  2. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    Clean it now and treat the inside with phosphoric acid to pickle the remaining rust and prevent flash rust from forming.
     
    k-moe, May 6, 2016
    #2
    Chance likes this.
  3. hogfiddles

    hogfiddles XJ-Wizard, Host-Central NY Carb Clinic Moderator Premium Member

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    You can either:

    clean it now-- and not worry about it anymore

    Or

    Take care of it later-- after it has clogged everything that you previously cleaned-----
     
    hogfiddles, May 8, 2016
    #3
  4. DrewUth

    DrewUth Active Member

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    I would spend the few months looking for a tank in better shape. Then, when you have exhausted your search efforts and you are ready to get the bike running, clean the rusty tank out as a last choice. I have cleaned/lined/prepped many rusty tanks, and I can say with 100% certainty I have never been happy with the results. There are lots of these bikes out there- its not like you're searching for an aluminum tank for an early 80's Husqvarna (anyone? haha).
     
    DrewUth, May 9, 2016
    #4

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