I have the need to empty fuel tanks on a regular basis, whether it's a new project with stale gas left in the tank or simply wanting to lighten the tank to make removal easier and safer. One method on the VFR is to use the fuel pump, diverting the outlet line into a gas can, but this is best for a smaller amount of fuel as it takes awhile and taxes the pump. There's also a selection of siphons and pumps available online, but I prefer to keep it simple and safe, so I use the universal principal that liquid seeks its own level. All this requires is a length of plastic tubing. Yesterday I needed to empty a nearly full tank from the VFR800 project, and thought I would share the technique.
One of my favorite YouTube guys is Paul Pomerleau. The coincidental fact that he and I own two of the same model bikes is just a bonus for me. He explains stuff in a thorough, down-home way...often in his house slippers! One modification I find useful is to zip-tie a length of narrowed paint stick to the fuel tank end of the hose, which takes out the curl and allows the tube to be positioned at the very bottom of the tank.
Be aware that this technique empties the tank quickly, so be ready to raise the gas can/tube above the fuel tank (to stop the flow) if switching to a second gas can. An alternative is to crimp the hose shut with a locking pliers. If you have only one gas can, pause the flow by securing the raised tube to the handlebar (or crimp the hose shut) then empty the gas can into your car (assuming the fuel is useable).
(click on an image to enlarge)
One of my favorite YouTube guys is Paul Pomerleau. The coincidental fact that he and I own two of the same model bikes is just a bonus for me. He explains stuff in a thorough, down-home way...often in his house slippers! One modification I find useful is to zip-tie a length of narrowed paint stick to the fuel tank end of the hose, which takes out the curl and allows the tube to be positioned at the very bottom of the tank.
Be aware that this technique empties the tank quickly, so be ready to raise the gas can/tube above the fuel tank (to stop the flow) if switching to a second gas can. An alternative is to crimp the hose shut with a locking pliers. If you have only one gas can, pause the flow by securing the raised tube to the handlebar (or crimp the hose shut) then empty the gas can into your car (assuming the fuel is useable).
(click on an image to enlarge)
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