Painting the Gas Cap

[Crossrodes]

After about 32 years of use my gas cap needs a paint job.  I am wondering how to take some parts off it before I do the painting.  Looking at this diagram   http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=0353&mospid=51896&btnr=16_0228&hg=16&fg=03  has anyone ever taken the ring and gasket off the cap without ruining them (items 6 and 17 in the diagram).  If so how did you get them off the gas cap?

Also does anyone have any recommendations as to what kind of black paint to use and should I use a primer?  There does not appear to be a primer under the original paint.

[Bob_Roller]

I replaced both of those parts on the fuel cap from the '82 LS, I would be surprised if they came off without breaking .

The plastic ring is just pressed on, it's a tight fit, again I would be surprised if it came off willingly and in one piece .

The seal is just a friction fit, but it is probably hardened to the point that it isn't flexible any more .

I would say that replacement of the parts is probably going to be end result .

[bruce_launceston]

I repainted mine and installed a new plastic ring, they are surprisingly cheap and really smarten the whole lot up.

[Crossrodes]

Bruce do you remember what kind of paint you used and whether you used a primer?

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

I was surprised at the low cost of the ring! Less than $6 with Chicago BMW's discount.

I would recommend replacing the rubber gasket as Bob did.  Mine just fell apart one day at a gas pump.

[Red_Hen]

POR makes really good paint - I used it to paint some engine parts and used the POR system to re-line my tank.

They have a pretty extensive website - just google POR paint.

[bruce_launceston]

I didn't prime the cap as the original paint was in good condition, I used a spray can - K&H matt black - it's an australian product and a very good paint for the black detailing on the LS, underside tank, cowling, choke lever etc. Their gloss black is good for the frame, centrestand etc. Easy to use and hard wearing.