Gas cap lock problem

[BigTim]

I suspect this subject has been beat around as much as what kind of oil to use but here goes.

A good friend bought an 83 R100RT in great shape. One nagging problem is with the keys. The gas cap key for now is the biggest concern for the obvious reasons. Seems he can unlock it goe out for a ride and when he stops he cannot get the cap off and the key won't work.

I'm guessing it can be too much after all it's only a lock. He tells me there are "dog's" that look likepart of the lock works that keep the cap from being unscrewed and could be the cause.

We're both fishing at this point, anyone have any words of wisdom to share?

THANKS in advance!!

[20774]

Read this...about the bottom half of the page...

http://bmwmotorcycletech.info/fuelfltrs&petcocks.htm

As you'll read, the gas cap should not be turned such that it ratchets...it doesn't work that way like a car. And generally, there's not a big reason to lock the gas cap, other than to keep stupid people from putting this inside. If they want to steal gas, it's quite easy to just remove a hose at the petcock and turn it on.

[AntonLargiader]

Try this:
http://www.largiader.com/articles/gascap/

[108625]

Spray some carb cleaner into the lock. Fuel vapors cause sticky varnish buildup there, just like inside carbs. It can cause problems on older bikes that have sat for long periods with fuel in the tank. Once everything's nice and clean, a quick shot of lock lubricant ought to help.

[shire2000]

If all else fails, there is the "fix" where one drills a small hole through the top of the cap and inserts a pin to "lock" the cap so that it will turn the whole thing and can be removed. Instead of turning and turning and turning, etc.

Replacement caps are very expensive. Had to replace my original a couple of years ago. I guess that after 24 years, it was due. But I know others that have had them a lot longer without any issue. Biggest problem has already been stated. They were not meant to be turned till they clicked. The ratchet system inside is not all that strong and will break fairly easily. Only a small little tab in there.

Good luck with it.

[BigTim]

Thank you everybody.
I knew someone (s) would have a good idea about how to solve this problem.

Many thanks to all of you for your efforts. :bow