Fuel Cap

[Air4Life]

The ratchet mechanism has gotten pretty bad and I'm interested in replacing it with an aftermarket cap, if this is possible.  Lock or no lock, it makes no difference to me.  I assume the cap has to be the vented kind...  

Does anyone have experience with an aftermarket one?

[montmil]

Due to their unique design, I have not seen an aftermarket gas cap that will fit the Airheads. Post up a link if you have one.

Other option is to buy used as I did from RePsycle BMW. call Mark or Marco on their dime. Emails take, like, forever to be answered. Busy shop. Good folks and prices.

http://re-psycle.com/

[Air4Life]

Thanks Montmil,

I guess a call is in order, they don't list one on their website as far as I can tell.

I located this blog posting some time ago.  Though the way he worded it, it doesn't seem correct.  I think he removed the lock and placed a 45mm bolt down in there to lock the top and bottom.  Does that make sense, or did he place this bolt in some other direction?  I've looked over the cap, and see the little holes Snowbum speaks of for inserting a rod to remove it in an emergency, but I don't think this blogger (Mathew) has approached it from this angle.

http://saviourmachinemotorcycles.blogspot.com/

Decisions decision...  A Bung plug from a fifty-five gallon wine drum would look real classy with the bikes natural patina.

[montmil]

 A Bung plug from a fifty-five gallon wine drum would look real classy with the bikes natural patina.

I know you're kidding... you wouldn't get far. The fuel cap is vented. No vent and the vacuum created inside the tank would shut down fuel flow and you, muy pronto.

Call and ask for what you want. RePsycle has acres of Airheads. Many oft called for parts are kept inside on the shelf. Bought a fuel cap and seat lock assembly from these guys.

[bruce_launceston]

If your '83 has the same cap as my '84 (without the bmw logo on top) it is easy to overcome the failing ratchet mechanism without drilling any holes through the top.

I have posted the fix on here a few times before.

[wirewrkr]

supposedly there is a ford/mercury  car cap that works.
Looks weird but works....................or so I've been told.
Check over at www.advrider.com

[Air4Life]

Yes, I was kidding Montmil.  My only concern with your lead is that I end up with another inferior cap.  If I decide to make this a show bike (not likely) I will then go for more accurate authentication.  Me, I'm concerned with riding and then some more riding.

thanks Bruce: My 1983 has a logo.

thanks wirewrkr: I'll check Adventurer rider.

[Air4Life]

screwed