E-Bay Gas Tank

[Ricks]

Did anyone see this?  He says he has never taken the cap off?  I sent him a message to take it off and let us know what it looks like.  Is there anyone out there that wouldn't look?  Seem like he is trying to hide something, like maybe the threads are crossed or tank is full of rust.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/simplex-servicycle-gas-tank-/140707076486?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item20c2cb9986#ht_500wt_1200

Rick

[Mike Sal]

Ya, it doesn't make sense that he'd not comment on the insides unless it's pretty rough.  His sellers score isn't very hi either.

any ideas on when they transitioned between the skinny tank w/ center fill cap to the wide tank w/ single fill cap, to the double fill caps?
Mike Sal

[Ricks]

1935 Flat side. 1 1/2 gallon center fill
1936-1940 Round side.  1 1/2 gallon center fill
1941-1944 Round side various capacities from 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 gallon. Center fill
1945-1951 ish. 2 1/2 gallon right side fill screw in cap
1952-on 2 1/2 gallon, both single and twin cap tank, most think that the single cap were from the 3 wheel trucks, but have seen on other machines.  The single caps can also be foundin both left and right fill, so who knows.  These caps are 1/4 turn caps.

This info comes mostly from Gary's book.


Rick

[Kustomkarma]

I saw that and thought the price was a little high. I was curious as to why he has never had the cap off. I've never had one of my caps off - but that's because I don't have the key.  I drilled out the lock, but still no luck. I guess I'll carefully cut it in half with a cutoff wheel.

[Ricks]

If there is little rust in the tank, that price is cheap. But, if really rusty, it might not be worth the trouble.  FYI, tanks usually sell for between 175-250 on eBay.

[kartjockey]

The original caps on those tanks(like mine) were brass and have about an inch of threads. The threads are really fine and it takes a minute to unscrew it. I felt lucky to have removed mine without damage. Had to feather some light heat and have alot of patience. Unless he has the 'touch' it'd be better for the buyer that he left it on. They have 24 TPI. When I made the cap for my lamp I only made the threads about 3/8" to 1/2" long. Always figured if the cap were to come loose it would take alot longer to vibrate its way off.