Gas cap. Busted lock. How to remove?

[Jd Powell]

Just picked up a project bike. The gas cap has a busted lock. Looks like someone tried opening it with a screwdriver. The top 1/4 inch or so can be turned, but it's not enough to unlatch it. Any good tips for removing the cap?

[p_s]

Locksmith. Should take a few minutes. The one I took mine to advised me to have them remove some parts so any key can open it--I took them up on that advice.

[tone]

I had this problem only a couple of days ago ! i found that tapping a small screwdriver into the lock & turning it with a set of mole grips had the cap off easilly :-D

NOTE .....
i said TAP or you could dent the top of the tank :shock:

[spchips]

I've got an ignition/gas cap (rectangular)/helmet lock for a 1982 GS650GL if it helps. The ignition ans gas cap are universal I think, unless you have a round gas cap.

I also have the seat, but this would only help on this exact model.

[drhach]

If the lock is already ruined, take a drill bit and drill out the tumblers. Don't go through the cap, just deep enough to get the tumblers out. You'll know when you're there. Then you can twist the mechanism with a screwdriver.