What tank will fit a '78 GS1000

[Guest]

I've just picked up a '78 GS1000. The gas tank isn't original. It was wired down because the frame rails under the tank are too wide to fit in the "slot" under the tank. From what I've gathered, the original '78 tanks are rare, and crazy expensive, if you can find them.
Are there any other options out there (other years and/or models), that will simply bolt on, or am I looking at modifying something?
This bike is rough. I'm not looking at getting it back to original, just a tank that will fit.

Thanks.

[rustybronco]

1978 and 1979 Gs1000's will be a direct fit. the 79 GS1000L's will not work

the 79's will look identical to the 78 GS1000 and GS1000E models except for the indent in the tank.
the '79 tank looks like this... http://www.ebay.com/itm/1979-SUZUKI-...item33707cefc4

[shadow]

Thanks for the fast reply.
Wow, they're not exactly giving them away either.
The "buy it now" price of $300...is that fairly typical for these tanks?

[rustybronco]

Not usually. I think the reason for that one being so high is because it was a Cooley tank to begin with. if you watch long enough, you'll find one cheaper.

don't forget to put in a request for one in the parts wanted section of this site.



do you have picture of the one that's already on your bike?

[shadow]

Okay, thanks, I may give that a try. I was hoping to find something local, but that may be a little too hopeful.

[sedelen]

I know a GS1100E tank should fit your bike, as I've seen pic's with them on it, but I can't remember what years, I do believe it's pre '82.
Perhaps someone here can pin it down further.

[tkent02]

80 or 81 750E or 1100E tanks fit perfectly, they look pretty good.

I have two 1978 1000 tanks that I can sell, with the skunk stripe indentations, but they need a little work, one needs a bunch of rust pinholes welded or brazed up, the other has a big wide dent on top. The dented tank would be easier if you have bodywork skills.

[shadow]

80 or 81 750E or 1100E tanks fit perfectly, they look pretty good.

I have two 1978 1000 tanks that I can sell, with the skunk stripe indentations, but they need a little work, one needs a bunch of rust pinholes welded or brazed up, the other has a big wide dent on top. The dented tank would be easier if you have bodywork skills.

Thanks, I'm still trying to find something local, but I'll definitely keep you in mind.
Where exactly is South Park?

[tkent02]

Colorado .

[sedelen]

I'm still trying to find something local,

"Good Luck" with that!

[verde]

Not sure if this one is know to work or not. Here's a rough idea of the '78 750E tank dimensions, let me know if you need more:

[salty_monk]

You need the 81 750E (or 81 1100E, it's the same) tank & you will have to change the Petcock or change to large port head & CV carbs....

[shadow]

You need the 81 750E (or 81 1100E, it's the same) tank & you will have to change the Petcock or change to large port head & CV carbs....

I've got a line on one of these tanks. I'm wondering what petcock I have to use. Is the problem a clearance issue? I really don't want to change the carbs.

[salty_monk]

Yes. The CV carbs on the 80 GS1000 are not as tall. I final assembled mine the night before a 2,000 mile trip (Not ideal) so I had to "make do". The GS1100E one fit but I had to:

1. grind on number 1 carb cap.
2. Cut the tank mounting rubbers to move the tank forwarde 1/2"
3. "Bodge" the rear mounting rubbers (thin rubber washer in between) to allow the tank to move flat to the frame plate & raise it up as high as the mounting slot in the tank will allow.
4. Carefully file the bottom edge of the petcock tighter to the diaphragm bolt hole those creating a little more room.

It has done around 2500 miles or more with that setup now so it does work but raising the back of the tank means that it will starve for fuel on reserve sometimes at freeway speeds... the cure is to keep the tank full obviously!

I also had a 83 750E petcock which would have fit a bit easier but it was leaking. I have since learnt how to turn that petcock into an "on/off" (or give it an extra position for "off"), wish I'd known that at the time! - You can have it if you want it.

The stock GS1000 Petcock stands no chance of fitting.

I have a feeling that something like this may work the best or a pingel. Worst case you could "re-make" the adapter plate to bring the petcock forward some as well. You should also be able to position the On/off lever to the front which will help to.

http://www.z1enterprises.com/Petcock--Single-Outlet-38-NPT--14-ID-outlet-1744.aspx

[shadow]

Salty, thanks for the info. The tank I'm considering ('82 750E) has a good petcock, so I'm thinking I'll just go with that.