97 FXSTC left side gas tank...dummy cap? : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

rel3rd · 10-06-2009, 07:32 PM

Probably a dumb question, but since I don't know, I'll ask....

My bike had a set of stretched tanks on it when I got it, but I also got the stock set with it as well. The left side tank has a small dent and I was going to let my son repair it for me at school (he's taking autobody collision).

The left tank's gas cap seems to be a "dummy" cap because it sort of freewheels instead of tightening or loosening. When trying to loosen it, it makes the clicking sound a car's gas cap does when it's tight.

Before I break something, is this the way it is supposed to be?

How can I get that cap off?

In case the thread title was overlooked, it is the stock tank from a 1997 Softail Custom (FXSTC).

Thanks.

kustom_flames · 10-06-2009, 08:16 PM

It is a reverse thread.

ChopperDude · 10-07-2009, 10:12 AM

What kustom said.... you turn it the OPPOSITE direction of the right side to remove it.

No clue why they chose to do that...

rel3rd · 10-07-2009, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kustom_flames

It is a reverse thread.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChopperDude

What kustom said.... you turn it the OPPOSITE direction of the right side to remove it.

No clue why they chose to do that...

Yep...that was it...lol.

Boy, I'd feel like an idiot if that wasn't such a stupid idea.

Thanks guys!

kustom_flames · 10-07-2009, 04:35 PM

When I first got my 96, I only filled up the right tank b/c I thought it crossed over...then after a few times I wondered why it only took a couple of gallons...

On the newer ones it is a dummy cap and is often a fuel gauge...