GS newbie, need help with tank fitment

[flyanimator]

I just recently purchased a 1980 GS 1100L. The bike was in overall good condition except for the dents in the tank so I'm having the carbs rebuilt though just for safe measure. I would like to know if a fuel tank off of an E model of the same year (or any other year) would fit my bike. I know the mounting point at the rear of the tank is different and I would have to weld some kind of bracket to attach it to the frame. Other than that would the tank physically fit on the frame. I would like the extra fuel capacity specially since I plan to take it on long trips, and I don't really like the teardrop shape of the original tank (i'm also having a custom shaped seat on the original seat pan). I like the more square shaped tanks of the E model with those recesses for the knees. Any suggestions, ideas, comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
-Rudy O.

[flyanimator]

Like this tank. I think this is an E model.

[jed.only]

most any tank will fit. if your L is like my L was (79 1000L), it has the front mounts underslung on the backbone of the bike, above the coils. the tank you want to use mounts further forward. the workaround here is to remove the plastic neck gusset covers, and engineer a rod and washers thru the hole already there. it is for different models than your L, its a provision from the factory. i went thru the same thing. i used a piece of all-thread thru the hole, made my measurements, and tacked onto the gusset and tacked washers in place outboard with a little all-thread protruding so your tank rubbers have a place to hangout. mimic the stock forward mounts.


id be surprised if the rear mount didnt line right up for you.

take a peak, you'll see what i mean.

[tkent02]

most any tank will fit. if your L is like my L was (79 1000L), it has the front mounts underslung on the backbone of the bike, above the coils. the tank you want to use mounts further forward. the workaround here is to remove the plastic neck gusset covers, and engineer a rod and washers thru the hole already there. it is for different models than your L, its a provision from the factory. i went thru the same thing. i used a piece of all-thread thru the hole, made my measurements, and tacked onto the gusset and tacked washers in place outboard with a little all-thread protruding so your tank rubbers have a place to hangout. mimic the stock forward mounts.


id be surprised if the rear mount didnt line right up for you.

take a peak, you'll see what i mean.

Some L frames have the E tank mounts already there, hidden under that plastic piece.

[flyanimator]

Thanks alot Jed and Kent. I'll check that out as soon as I get my bike back from the shop on friday. I'll post how it goes along with the other changes I have planned for my bike.
-Rudy