Stuck gas tank lock

[Basil]

Hi all. I have a 1987 Venture Royale that I haven’t ridden in 15 years . When I tried to unlock the fuel tank I couldn’t get the cap off. Just wondering if anyone else had a similar problem and if so how did you get the cap off.

 

Thanks

[djh3]

Does the key turn? If so you might try a little pressure down and turn key. Could be the seal is stuck to opening or the latches are frozen. At any rate if it has not had gas in it in 15 years, I wouldnt have any thought I could just dump some in and fire it up.

[Basil]

Thanks djh3.

The key turns freely to about the 2 o’clock position . I can push the cap down some and turn the whole cap a little bit but it still will not come off. Next I will try lubricating oil. After that I don’t know.

[videoarizona]

The gas cap screws may have been loose when the bike was put away. They are underneath the cap. When they do loosen, the cap becomes misaligned with itself and the two dogs that hold the cap in the tank won't open properly. That's one idea. The 2 dogs might not be opening all the way due to rust, corrosion...? Last, the thing just might be stuck on there....the gasket has rotted and is now dried glue instead of rubber.

 

Turn the key and hold, then wiggle gently with a slight rocking motion, side to side to see if you can get the 2 dogs to retract enough. If you can't move the cap at all...she's stuck.

 

BTW, When you do get it open....check the 2 screws, clean the gasket then put the cap back on. Unless the gas was run out of the tank completely before being put away, I wouldn't even think of using that gas for anything. Take the tank off and clean it out. Then replace the fuel lines. They are probably rotted away inside too. Last take the carbs off and clean them thoroughly. Small effort but will keep you from having fuel issues with the carbs when you do get her running.

[BlueSky]

This is a fairly common problem with bikes that have sat for years. Corrosion happens and the cap won't come off. Most of the time I think the key won't turn either. Their are utube videos about how owners have finally been able to get the caps off.