Got a new tank for my bike. I went with one with a 2" stretch. Question is she is kinda Frankenstein-ish on the weld. Also has a sticker advising don't do Nada to the weld (see pics). So is this a bondo-skim-picaso thing?

I'll pressure test her at 20psi just curious how to get her "proper" and pretty.

Any tips and advice is much thanked.

HD (not a phun words just the cards I was dealt)



Tells me what not to do...





But that is a ridge line with lumps.

 

Knock down the high spots with a DA with a heavy grit abrasive & a thin wipe of bondo. Any experienced bodyman could handle that job.

Sorry to put it so bluntly, The company that made that tank should have done a better job of finishing off their product. Saying what not to do is an easy way out of standing by their product a if any future problems occur. I would return the tank & ask for one that was finished off better if they don't want anyone doing everyday normal body shop work on the tank.
See what your local body shop says if your feeling uneasy about it. Any experienced bodyman should have no problem working with that tank. Good luck, keep us posted on how your project goes.

 

Looks like some "deeper caverns" in some spots. A thin coat of fiberglass ( waterproof ) filler is a good idea ( it's water/moisture proof to prevent bubbling and lifting) followed by a thin coat of bondo as Ken suggested. I'd recommend sealing the inside of the tank once you're sure it ready to go to paint.

 

Thanks CK&UL for the advice. Truth of the matter is I want to do her myself. (Just a morale thang and knowledge base for me)

You both do recommend sealing it? Even if it holds/passes pressure tests? (Heard some sad war stories about sealing)

Thanks again,

HD

 

I don't have any experience with sealing tanks from the inside. Maybe try posting on the main forum to get better advice. Seems more people will see the post there that can help you. I did mostly paint work on cars & trucks.

 

Again danka CK,

Think I'll just take y'all advice and vibe with the flow. (If it goes south as you suggested I'll just run it up to my PB shop)

Rock on.

HD

 

Yes I would DEFINITELY seal an aftermarket/custom tank. There are several brands and I'm sure that someone will chime in that "Brand A" is better than "Brand B" . The video will give you an idea as ho to go about it.

 

Right on time, Thanks UL!