gas cap wont unlock

[marbil]

Started to work on the gas tank on my 78 Bonneville and the gas cap will not unlock the key turns 90 the cap unscrews but the locking pins don’t retract, at least I am assuming that is the case, new to me bike so I don't know the mechanics of the lock. I have been soaking in everything from carb cleaner to kroil, any hints or tricks would be much appreciated
thanks
Bill

 

[The Seeker]

I'm afraid I cannot be of much help since a locking gas cap on a '78 Bonnie is not a stock Triumph item.....someone installed that aftermarket.

 

[DaveM]

I think you may need to drill it out and get a new one as off the top of my head I cannot think of anything else you could try that you have already not tried

 

[Rocky]

I'm afraid I cannot be of much help since a locking gas cap on a '78 Bonnie is not a stock Triumph item.....someone installed that aftermarket.

Same from me. Wish I could help.
As horrible as that prospect is, it may have to be drilled out to free the pins, and then contend with getting the drilling crap out of the tank.
Good luck with your efforts.

 

[DaveM]

Yes if you do have to drill it I would suggest putting in one of those inline fuel filters as you can be sure no matter how hard you try you will still have a few metal bits left in the tank

 

[marbil]

what about removing the rivets around the lock cylinder ?

 

[grandpaul]

Time to throw in my favorite line:

"YOU NEED A BIGGER HAMMER"

hee hee

That's an aftermarket cap, and all bets are off.

Sorry.

 

[avion]

Might be worth a shot speaking to an auto locksmith. Probably has lots of 'tricks of the trade' that could help.

...

 

[Sea Dog]

Might be worth a shot speaking to an auto locksmith. Probably has lots of 'tricks of the trade' that could help.

...

 

[CarlS]

Might be worth a shot speaking to an auto locksmith. Probably has lots of 'tricks of the trade' that could help.

...

Great recommendation.

 

[marbil]

got it, no way in hells half acre all the penetrating oil in the world would not have done it. drilled the rivets removed the chrome cover and ended up sawing one of the lock pins off

 

[DaveM]

Well sounds like you had no other choice really.

 

[Rocky]

Glad you got it out of there

 

[CarlS]

Glad you got it off. Good job!