How To Drain A Harley Gas Tank

How to Drain a Harley Gas Tank: A Comprehensive Guide

Draining your Harley gas tank might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it's a manageable task. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you do it safely and effectively. Whether you're preparing for maintenance, switching fuel types, or dealing with a fuel issue, this step-by-step approach will help you drain your Harley gas tank correctly.

Why Drain Your Harley Gas Tank?

There are several reasons why you might need to drain your Harley's gas tank:

• Motorcycle Maintenance: Before performing carburetor or fuel system work, draining the tank is crucial to prevent fuel spills and contamination.
• Fuel Type Change: If you're switching from regular gasoline to premium or vice versa, draining the tank ensures a complete change.
• Fuel Contamination: If you suspect fuel contamination, draining the tank allows you to remove the bad fuel and replace it with fresh fuel.
• Winter Storage: Draining the fuel before long-term storage prevents the fuel from deteriorating and potentially damaging your fuel system.

Tools You'll Need:

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• A clean, empty container: Make sure it's large enough to hold your tank's capacity and properly labeled for fuel disposal.
• Fuel-resistant gloves: Protecting your skin from gasoline is paramount.
• Safety glasses or goggles: These will shield your eyes from potential splashes.
• A siphon hose: A flexible, fuel-resistant hose is ideal. You can often find these at auto parts stores.
• Optional: A funnel: This can help to prevent spills when transferring the drained fuel.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Harley Gas Tank:

1. Safety First!

• Always work in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are highly flammable and potentially harmful.
• Never smoke near the fuel. This is a critical fire safety precaution.
• Wear your safety glasses and fuel-resistant gloves. This is crucial for your safety.

2. Prepare Your Motorcycle:

• Park your Harley on a level surface. This ensures an even fuel flow.
• Turn the fuel petcock to the "OFF" position. This prevents any further fuel from entering the tank during the draining process.
• Locate the gas tank drain valve (if equipped). Some Harley models have a drain valve; if yours does, this makes the process simpler.

3. Siphon the Fuel (If No Drain Valve):

• Carefully insert one end of the siphon hose into the gas tank. Make sure it reaches the bottom of the tank to drain completely.
• Suck on the other end of the hose to start the siphon. This creates the initial vacuum needed. (You can also use a pump designed for this purpose to avoid mouth contact.)
• Allow the fuel to drain into your prepared container. Monitor the flow and be ready to adjust the hose position if needed.

4. Using the Drain Valve (If Equipped):

• Open the drain valve. Be prepared for a sudden flow of fuel.
• Direct the fuel flow into your container.
• Close the valve once the tank is empty.

5. Dispose of Fuel Properly:

• Never pour gasoline down drains or onto the ground. This is hazardous to the environment and illegal in many areas.
• Dispose of the gasoline at a designated recycling center or auto parts store. Check with your local authorities for proper disposal methods.

Post-Draining Precautions:

• Inspect the gas tank for any signs of damage or corrosion.
• Inspect the fuel lines for leaks or cracks.
• Once the tank is empty and cleaned, allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling it.

By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently drain your Harley gas tank, preparing for maintenance or addressing fuel-related issues. Remember to prioritize safety and proper fuel disposal throughout the entire process. This comprehensive guide helps you approach this process with confidence and expertise.