Evening all. When I first bought my Commando a few months ago I couldn't start it. I ended up draining the fuel tank (The petrol looked like Tizer!) and cleaned the carbs. Started and ran no problem. Next job was the gearbox. A previous owner had rebuilt the box but not indexed it properly so couldn't select first. Took me a while but hopefully sorted that now. Tried starting the bike to take out for a test ride but it wont start. Drained fuel tank and fuel is like Tizer again. Taken carbs off and inlet throat is dirty and sticky. They are in the sonic bath as I am typing this. Is this likely to be my problem? It still has its original fibreglass tank which looks ok inside (Light blue colour). I have been using E10 fuel but have now purchased E5. Is the fuel tank the issue? If so, recommendation's for a replacement please. Ta.
Sounds like resin from the…
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The ethanol in E-whatever…
The ethanol in E-whatever petrol attacks the resin used to make the tank. This usually manifests as loss of resin inside the tank, exposing the fibres, weakening the tank and resulting in leaks. Also, GRP tanks suffer from embrittlement over the years with any type of petrol so old ones are more susceptible to failing in use.
But, the Tizer effect sounds more like someone has attempted to seal the inside of the tank (ask PO) and made a poor job of it so sealant is dissolving in the fuel. The residue you see in the inlets can also go further into the engine such that you'll end up having to pull the head to clean everything.
In short - don't use that tank on your bike.
You can try stripping any sealant that has previously been applied and re-seal. But by far and away the best option is to get a steel tank as Michael has said. And avoid E10 if possible.
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Sounds like resin from the tank is ending up in the works.
That would mean you need a steel tank.