Fuel tank prep

[Kabniel]

I've recently been asked to do a mod as a gift. I'm throwing around the idea of taking a motorcycle fuel tank and modding it. I know people have done it before.

What i'm curious about, is prepping the tank for the parts. Refurbishing or cleaning up a used tank to be used as a gas tank again is everywhere. I'm wondering if there's anything I need to do to the tank so that it is safe to use as a computer... ? Should I just clean like I would if I was going to use it again? or is there another step I need to take to make sure it's "computer safe"?

[Luke122]

The only thing I can think of is to make sure it's really clean, inside and out. We are talking about a metal tank right? Non-permeable, so no fuel smell on the inside once it's cleaned out properly. The only thing you'd need to do to build a computer in there is ventilate it properly so the computer doesnt overheat and die.

Oh, and make sure things are mounted properly on standoffs so nothing shorts out against the sides of the tank. :)

[Eclecticos]

I personally wouldn't attempt this without contacting a true professional.
Danger, Will Robinson! Danger!

The best advice I can give is to make a saddlebag pc instead, or possably an addition to the tail.

[simon275]

Buy a new fuel tank from a supplier I suggest not going any where near a used one.

Also depending what the tank is made out of be careful cutting the metal for io ports and fan holes. If you don't feel that you have the full skills then seek the help of a professionals.

Yeah if you want to use a used tank clean it out some how with some industrial strength cleaning agents used for cleaning up fuel spills. Even cut the tank in half along an edge and open it up as a clam sheel and sand out the inside.

Ventilation and Standoffs as suggested by Lukifer122 are your friend.

[Visionary]

I know when you go to weld on a fuel tank that's been filled with gas before that you're supposed to fill it with water. The water forces out any gas fumes that could ignite. You might have a problem keeping the water in after you start cutting holes in the sides though.

[Kabniel]

thanks for the responses.

When looking at various tanks, i was thinking about cutting out the reservoirs and using the tank as more of a shell than anything else. I'd try to build a frame to house the components and slide the tank/shell over this with a few openings for fans, ports, and buttons. This would still give easy access to the internals should something need to be replaced and i'm not around to do it. A series of screws or latches to hold the shell and frame together or something.

I'll be getting in contact with any local custom bike shops to get some more info.