Katerina Swanson
Honda motorcycle enthusiasts have been discussing the possibility of fitting a Honda CX500 fuel tank to a GL500 frame. The general consensus is that it can be done, but modifications to either the tank or the frame are necessary. Some have suggested that the CX500D tank will fit, but it is hard to find. Others have proposed using a CB400F model, which will fit with some modifications, but these tanks are also difficult to find and expensive. One user has shared their experience of successfully fitting a CX500 frame with a GL500 engine, but they encountered issues with the radiator not fitting properly due to misaligned fixing holes. Another user has shared a similar experience, noting that the rear mounts on the upper rear engine bracket were missing, requiring them to relocate the coils. It is important to carefully inspect the frame for rust and make any necessary adjustments before fitting the engine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Honda CX500 fuel tank fitting a GL500 frame | Possible with modifications |
| Modifications required | Relocating coils, changing rear mounting plate, moving tank mounts, changing rubbers, welding, foam filling, cutting and welding flat plates |
| Alternative tanks that fit GL500 | CX500C, CX500D, CB400f, Suzuki GS850G, Suzuki GS1000 or GS1100 |
Explore related products
![[Replacement] Carburetor Repair Floating Kit, for Honda, for CX500, GL500, 1978-1979, Motorcycle Parts](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61XjMHQ0u0L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
- The CX500C tank can be made to fit the GL500 frame, but requires modification
- The CX500 Deluxe tank can be modified to fit the GL500 frame
- The Suzuki GS850G tank can fit the CX500 Custom frame
- The CB400F tank will fit the GL500 with some modification
- The CX500 frame can accommodate the GL500 engine, but some parts may need adjusting
The CX500C tank can be made to fit the GL500 frame, but requires modification
The Honda CX500 and GL500 are both motorcycles with similar frames. The CX500C tank can be fitted to the GL500 frame, but it requires some modifications. The CX500C tank has bolt-on front mounts instead of cups, so it can be adapted to fit other styles with some adjustments.
One option is to modify the deluxe tank to fit the GL500 frame. The tunnel on a deluxe tank will straddle the GL's triple-spine frame, but the mounts will need modification. This can be achieved by cutting and welding flat plates to the sides and/or top of the tank, a process known as "slabbing." This method preserves the stock mounting and fuel shut-offs, ensuring a safe and secure fit.
Another approach is to use a two-part body repair structure foam to mount the welded-up slabbed tank into the shell. This creates a durable but slightly heavier solution. Additionally, the CX500 tank's mounting points, which grab the rubber bumpers, are farther apart, so adding material to prevent side-to-side shifting is advisable.
Furthermore, when combining a CX500 frame with a GL500 engine, there may be challenges with the radiator as the fixing holes may not line up correctly. It is also important to consider the different ignition systems and make necessary adaptations, such as using TI coils and spark units or modifying the CDI-type kill switch.
Overall, while it is possible to fit a CX500C tank to a GL500 frame, it requires careful modifications to ensure a safe and functional outcome.
Ford Fusion Fuel Tank Capacity Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The CX500 Deluxe tank can be modified to fit the GL500 frame
One common modification involves adjusting the distance between the mounting points that grab the rubber bumpers. On the CX500 tank, these mounting points are farther apart compared to the GL500. By adding material or using alternative rubber bumpers, the tank can be secured to the GL500 frame without side-to-side shifting. This modification addresses the difference in the distance between the mounting points on the two models.
Additionally, some riders opt to modify the CX500 Deluxe tank by cutting and welding. This process involves cutting a flat plane on each side of the tank and welding on flat or slightly curved plates. This technique allows for the preservation of stock mounting, fuel shut-offs, and safety while riding on a steel tank. It also enables smoothing off the bottom areas for an improved appearance.
When considering modifications, it is important to keep in mind that altering the tank or frame may require specialized equipment and skills. Some riders choose to consult forums, seek advice from experienced individuals, or even enlist professional services to ensure a safe and effective modification process.
While the CX500 Deluxe tank can be modified to fit the GL500 frame, it is worth noting that there are alternative tank options available for the GL500 that may require less modification. These options, such as the cb400f model, can provide a good fit with minimal modifications, but they may be harder to find and more expensive. Ultimately, the decision to modify the CX500 Deluxe tank or explore alternative tank options depends on individual preferences, budget, and the level of modification one is comfortable with.
Fuel Tank Capacity for 83 Dodge Ram: How Big?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Suzuki GS850G tank can fit the CX500 Custom frame
There are a number of options for alternative fuel tanks for the Honda CX500, GL500, CX650 and GL650. The CX500 Standard, Deluxe and Shadow tanks will fit the CX650E Eurosport frame, and it is assumed that they will also fit the GL500 and GL650 as they share similar frames. The mounting points on the CX500 tank are further apart, so it may be advisable to add some material to stop it from shifting from side to side.
There are also suggestions for other tank options for the GL500, including the CX500D tank, the cb400f model, and the late 70s CB750 tank. However, these tanks may require some modification to the frame or the tank itself.
One user on the CX500 Forum suggests slabbing the tank by straight-cutting the sides and/or top and welding on flat or slightly curved plates. This method preserves the stock mounting and fuel shut-offs, and the mounting foam fill can be used to smooth off the bottom areas for a nice appearance. Another user suggests slimming down the original tank by cutting a flat plane on each side with a laser level and a quick-change Dremel cutting disc.
Volvo S40 Fuel Tank: Size and Capacity
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The CB400F tank will fit the GL500 with some modification
One option is to "'slab" the tank by cutting and welding it. This involves straight cutting the sides and/or top of the tank and welding on flat or slightly curved plates. You can use 16 or 18 gauge and do a slosh coat after finish welding. The filler opening can be joined to the filler cap area of a fiberglass tank with JB Weld. This method preserves the stock mounting and fuel shutoffs, and you can smooth off the bottom areas for a nice appearance. However, this method can result in a heavier tank.
Another option is to modify the mounting points on the tank. For example, adding material to stop it from shifting from side to side or using rubber bumpers from a different bike.
You can also consider using an alternative tank, such as the CX500D tank, which is known to work with the GL500 frame but may be hard to find. The Eurosport tank should also fit with minimal effort due to its similar triple bar frame.
Additionally, you can explore custom tank options, such as building your own or purchasing a larger fuel tank like the 1981 Suzuki GS850G tank, which offers increased fuel capacity and range. Keep in mind that custom tanks may require modifications to fit the GL500 frame.
XJ Fuel Tank Removal: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The CX500 frame can accommodate the GL500 engine, but some parts may need adjusting
When it comes to the fuel tank, a CX500 tank can be fitted to a GL500 frame, but some adjustments may be required. The mounting points on the CX500 tank are farther apart, so adding material to stop it from shifting or using rubber bumpers from a different bike can help.
Some forum users have also suggested modifying the tank or frame to get a CX500 tank to fit a GL500. This includes cutting and welding the tank or using body repair foam to mount the tank. Others have suggested using a CX500C or CX500D tank, which may require less modification.
Overall, while it is possible to fit a GL500 engine and fuel tank into a CX500 frame, some adjustments and modifications may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and function.
Draining a Bobcat Fuel Tank: Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, the Honda CX500 fuel tank will not fit the GL500 frame without modifications. The CX500 Deluxe tank will straddle the GL500's triple-spine frame, but the mounts will need modification.
To fit a CX500 fuel tank to a GL500 frame, you will need to modify the tank mounts. You may also need to modify the tank itself, depending on the specific tank and frame combination. Some common methods for modifying the tank include welding, slabbing, and using body repair foam.
Yes, there are a few alternative fuel tanks that can fit a GL500 frame without modifications. One option is the CX500C tank, which has bolt-on front mounts instead of cups, allowing it to be adapted to fit the GL500 frame. Another option is the Suzuki GS850G tank, which has been reported to fit the CX500 Custom frame and should also fit the GL500 frame with similar dimensions.
Yes, there are fuel tanks available that offer increased fuel capacity for the GL500. One option is the Suzuki GS850G tank, which has a capacity of 22.5L or 5.94 gallons, providing a range of approximately 250 miles. Another option is the Euro tank, which has a capacity of 19L, allowing for a range of around 250 miles.
