Gas cap stuck

[mralex714]

I have an 89 that was I guess a running project. It ran fine but cosmetically was in poor shape. I got an 86 in better shape but started the 89 a couple time a week. The starter died back in March. Well long story short I just got around to replacing the starter. The bike runs pretty good fotr sitting so long, but now I can't get the gas cap off. Any ideas on what to do?

 

Thanks

[frankd]

Does the key turn? If not try spraying some silicon lube in the keyhole.

[videoarizona]

If the screws are loose in the cap, you can usually turn key and hold...then wiggle cap to one side or the other.... while gently pulling up. Eventually you should be able to get it off. Two things: One... dirt or corrosion holding one of both extrusions from retracting... or Two... The two screws are loose and assembly not in alignment. Be advised... If screws... one or both missing... They may be in tank.

Common problem with VStars as well.

[BlueSky]

Maybe spray some penetrating oil down the key hole, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, etc. WD40 is NOT a penetrating oil.

[mralex714]

I have tried your suggestions. The key does turn and have sprayed in numerous lubes with no luck. The cap will turn to the right about a quarter turn but I can't get it to come off.

[Eck]

Put a lit match under it so you can see what is holding it on................:sign just kidding::sign just kidding:

 

I know it takes a lot of finesse and patients to get a stuck gas cap off. I wish you lots of luck in doing so.

(Hope my above humor brought you a smile and did not offend you in anyway)

Edited October 4, 2015 by Eck

[Flyinfool]

I had my cap get stuck once. It took a bunch of wiggling and jiggling but it did finally come off.

After a good lube job it never stuck again, Lubing the gas cap is now a part of my winter maintenance.

 

Gas is pretty good at washing away most lubes. Do not worry about getting that last couple of ounces of gas into the tank by filling right to the top of the filler neck, that will wash out your lube.

[videoarizona]

I have tried your suggestions. The key does turn and have sprayed in numerous lubes with no luck. The cap will turn to the right about a quarter turn but I can't get it to come off.

 

 

It should come off straight up. Orient the arrow on cap straight forward and keep at it.

Please let us know where you are with this and what else you have tried.

[mralex714]

It should come off straight up. Orient the arrow on cap straight forward and keep at it.

Please let us know where you are with this and what else you have tried.

 

Finally had to go medieval on it. A hammer was involved, but any way I need a new cap. Even after I got it off the locking tabs still wouldn't move. BTW the 2 screws were still in place and secure

[Flyinfool]

I got lucky in that mine finally let go after a lot of wiggling. Make lubing those locking tabs part of your annual maintenance.

[videoarizona]

Finally had to go medieval on it. A hammer was involved, but any way I need a new cap. Even after I got it off the locking tabs still wouldn't move. BTW the 2 screws were still in place and secure

 

 

 

Sorry to hear that. At least you don't have to fish for screws in the tank like I did on my VStar. After that bit of fun, I used some locktite on the screws!!

Think it's time for me to go check them and lube them!