Sylvie Willis
Honda ATVs are all-terrain vehicles that are designed for off-road use. While they are built to withstand rugged conditions, their fuel tanks can become contaminated with dirt, sand, varnish, sludge, or rust. This can cause performance issues and even engine failure. Cleaning a Honda ATV fuel tank typically involves removing the tank, draining old fuel, and using solvents, chemicals, or mechanical methods to dissolve or dislodge contaminants. The tank is then rinsed, dried, and refilled with fresh fuel.
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$90
What You'll Learn
Removing the tank
First, locate the two bolts at the front of the tank and one bolt at the rear. Using the appropriate tools, proceed to remove these bolts. Additionally, look for two rubber straps and a fuel line attached to the tank and carefully detach them. Now, you can pull the tank backwards and upwards, manoeuvring it between the ears of the front fender plastics. This action will require some force but will allow for the tank's removal and installation.
If your Honda ATV model has a plastic shroud around the tank and carb, you will need to remove this first. This process may involve dealing with bolts and pins. For pins, a flat-head screwdriver or side cutters can be used to pry out the centre, which usually pops up.
Once the tank is accessible, turn off the fuel supply. This step is crucial to prevent any accidental spillage or leakage during the removal process.
After the tank is removed, you will likely need to address the petcock, a valve that controls the fuel flow. Some models may have a plastic tank with brass petcock bolts, so proceed with caution to avoid damaging them. You can try cleaning the petcock by disassembling it, cleaning it thoroughly, and then putting it back together. However, if it is severely clogged or damaged, consider purchasing a new one, which is typically available for around $35.
With the tank removed, you can now focus on cleaning or replacing it. If you opt for cleaning, there are various methods suggested by Honda ATV owners, including using solvent alcohol, ethanol fuel, or kerosene, along with a short piece of chain, to shake and dislodge any debris. Alternatively, you can explore commercial cleaning solutions like the Kreem Tank lining kit or water-based rust removers.
Remember to exercise caution when handling chemicals and always wear appropriate protective gear, such as rubber gloves. Additionally, ensure that the work area is well-ventilated to mitigate the risks associated with fuel vapours.
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Using a solvent
One method for cleaning a Honda ATV fuel tank is to use a solvent. This can be done by first removing the tank and draining it of any remaining fuel. Next, use a solvent such as kerosene, xylene, Stoddard Solvent, or alcohol to clean the inside of the tank. These solvents can be purchased at most hardware stores or online.
For example, one user recommended using a pint of xylene, letting it soak for a couple of hours while occasionally sloshing it around, and then draining it through the petcock. Another user suggested using Stoddard Solvent, which is a mild solvent that won't damage the tank, and following a similar process of sloshing it around and letting it sit overnight before draining it.
If there is rust in the tank, one user recommended filling the tank halfway with a solvent such as acetone, rubbing alcohol, or parts cleaner, and then adding a bunch of screws or bolts and shaking vigorously. This method can also be used to remove rust from the outside of the tank by wrapping it in a blanket and placing it in an oversized dryer on the no-heat setting.
It is important to note that some solvents may require additional steps, such as rinsing the tank with water or fuel to remove any remaining solvent residue. It is always a good idea to refer to the solvent's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions when working with chemicals.
Additionally, some users have suggested using a chain or other small objects such as BBs or wood screws, along with the solvent, to help dislodge any built-up debris or rust inside the tank. This can be done by adding the chain and solvent to the tank, shaking vigorously, and then draining the mixture.
Overall, using a solvent is an effective method for cleaning a Honda ATV fuel tank, and with the right products and procedures, users can ensure their tanks are thoroughly cleaned and maintained.
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Cleaning the petcock
To clean the petcock of your Honda ATV, you will first need to remove the fuel tank. This can be done by removing the two bolts, straps, and the fuel line, then pulling the tank backwards and upwards.
Once the tank is removed, you can access the petcock. The petcock bowl can be removed by loosening the bolt located at the centre bottom of the bowl. You can then clean the orifices, including the filter screen, using a carb or brake cleaner, or compressed air.
If your petcock is metal and has rust, you may need to reseal it after cleaning. You can use a kit to rebuild it, which usually consists of O-rings, a spring, and a diaphragm. You can also purchase a new petcock for around $35.
Some Honda ATV owners have also recommended using kerosene to clean the petcock. You can let the petcock sit in kerosene and then blow it out with an air hose.
If your petcock is clogged, you may need to drill out the rivets and clean out the inside before reassembling it with small bolts and nuts.
It is important to note that you should not use a carb cleaner on any rubber parts of the valve as it may damage them.
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Removing the carb
To remove the carb from your Honda ATV, start by turning the fuel valve shutoff to the off setting. Next, loosen the tube clamp that holds the carb in place with a screwdriver, then wiggle and draw it out. The carb is still connected to the ATV via the throttle cable. To separate it, loosen the leading cap, which will remove the throttle cable. Now, the carb is completely free, and you can move it to a suitable workspace.
Before you begin cleaning, ensure your workspace is well-lit and that you can securely place tiny components without losing them. The float is the bottom part of the carb and is the first thing to be removed when cleaning. To do this, loosen the four screws under the carb with a screwdriver. These screws come out very quickly, so be careful not to lose them.
Now, you can dry the carb and its components with compressed air. Blow the air into all the holes and over all parts of the carb. Once everything is dry, you can begin to reassemble the parts.
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Drying the tank
Firstly, ensure that you have thoroughly cleaned the tank and removed all dirt, debris, and residue. This can be done using various methods such as flushing the tank with water, using cleaning solutions like kerosene or muriatic acid, or even pressure washing the tank. It is crucial to follow safety precautions when handling chemicals and wear appropriate protective gear.
Once the tank is clean, the next step is to dry it completely. Start by using a clean cloth or towel to absorb any remaining water or moisture inside the tank. You can also use compressed air to blow out any water droplets and speed up the drying process. Make sure to blow air through the petcock and fuel line to ensure all components are dry.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a small amount of alcohol or gas line dryer. Alcohol blends with the fuel and can be burned in the engine, helping to absorb any remaining moisture in the tank. You can also leave the tank to air dry for a few days. Placing the tank in a well-ventilated area or outdoors can expedite the drying process.
For metal fuel tanks, it is essential to ensure that every drop of water is removed before proceeding to the next step. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to aid in the removal of water. Additionally, placing the tank out in the sun can help accelerate the drying process and ensure that all components are thoroughly dried.
Finally, once the tank is completely dry, you can proceed with the next steps in the fuel tank cleaning process, such as applying a lining liquid or coating to seal the tank and prevent future corrosion. Remember to refer to specific Honda ATV fuel tank cleaning guides for additional instructions and safety precautions.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several methods to clean your Honda ATV fuel tank. Here are some options:
- Use a water-based rust remover.
- Try a solvent like solvent alcohol, ethanol fuel, or xylene.
- Use a product like Sea Foam to clean the tank, followed by draining and rinsing.
- For metal fuel tanks, the POR 15 kit is recommended.
- For plastic tanks, flush with a garden hose and blow dry with compressed air.
There are a few products recommended for rust removal in Honda ATV fuel tanks. These include:
- Muriatic acid, which can be purchased from a hardware store.
- A three-part kit called "Creme", designed to clean, neutralize, and seal rusty tanks.
- Kerosene, which helps dissolve rust.
To clean a plastic Honda ATV fuel tank, some sources recommend using a garden hose to flush the tank and compressed air to blow it dry. Another option is to use a product like Sea Foam, followed by draining and rinsing the tank.
To clean the petcock on your Honda ATV, you can remove it and take it apart, then clean it thoroughly using carb cleaner, avoiding the gasket and O-ring.
To clean the carburetor on your Honda ATV, you should first remove and disassemble it. Set any rubber parts aside, then place the remaining parts in a carb cleaner bucket overnight, agitating occasionally. Ensure that all passages in the jets are clear, and that you can blow compressed air through every orifice in the carb body.
