Topic: Removing Fuel Screen

[550Resto]

Hello all, I'm going to try and tackled my fuel tank this weekend, however I'm at an bump in the road. I am having trouble getting the screen out of the fuel tank. It's a 78 550K. After I remove the petcock I find that the screen is flush with the tank which doesn't give much in the way of removing the screen. Looking for any tips or tricks short of ripping it to shreds getting it out and having to get a new one. Tank has been sitting for 30 years so there is some built up varnish hence the tank cleaning. I also wanted to see if using a cork to plug the petcock end would be sufficient when using acetone? I can't seem to find a small enough rubber stop.

http://www.westernhonda.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=2451813&category=Motorcycles&make=Honda&year=1978&fveh=131104
Number 3 in the fiche
 
http://s1168.photobucket.com/user/550Resto/media/tank2_zpsuafvcypr.jpg.html

Screen can be seen here

[evanphi]

Tank has been sitting for 30 years so there is some built up varnish hence the tank cleaning.

There's your answer.

Just replace it. I am buying a new screen for the 750 tank I'm redoing rather than trying to clean it... even though it's metal.

[madmtnmotors]

Looking for any tips or tricks short of ripping it to shreds getting it out and having to get a new one. Tank has been sitting for 30 years

You need a new screen. To remove the old screen I usually insert a sharp pick, awl, or even a finishing nail between the edge of the filter and the inside of the opening in the fuel tank. Once the edge of the filter can be grasped with needle nose pliers, twist and pull the old filter free. The new screen (from Honda) comes with a new petcock gasket too.

[flatlander]

yes what the guys say... it's most likely going to be destroyed in the process. when you replace it make sure you get the correct one for your petcock and tank. be aware that the tank and petcock may not be matching the "year" of your bike so really check them carefully against the partslist (don't ask how i found out!).

[DaveBarbier]

I've heard of people threading a bolt into the filter hole and pulling it out. I haven't tried that, might work. Worth a shot.

Your tank doesn't look that bad. And your filter seems to be in fine shape. I'd reuse it if you can pull it out.

If you do try that and it works, let me know! Maybe post a picture too. I've never seen anyone actually do that so it would be nice to know.

[mystic_1]

Stick a long wooden dowel into the tank through the filler and push the screen out from the inside.

mystic_1

[DaveBarbier]

Stick a long wooden dowel into the tank through the filler and push the screen out from the inside.

mystic_1

Don't think you'd be able to do that. Not enough leverage. Risks breaking the dowel and/or filter.

[550Resto]

Got it out with a small pick to get it loose from the sides of the bung then used needle nose pliers to get it out. Got one on order. How would one go about cleaning the pet cocktail of old varnish? I used acetone on the inside of the tank which cleaned the old varnish.

[evanphi]

Disassemble the petcock and remove (and plan to replace, for good measure) any rubber bits. Then a good soak in acetone.