1965 BSA Lightning Tank

[rbaisa]

I just picked up this bike and have a question about the tank.  I don't think this is the original tank, but I am not sure.  I can not find a picture that matches the badge shape in this year.  Was there a solid red tank for this model in 1965?  I thought they were all chrome and red?  Would someone paint over the chrome or was it available in solid red?

[L.A.B.]

The tank looks like the BSA export type used during 1968-70 (tank shape/badge position/filler cap style) and yes it probably had  chromed sides originally, which have been painted over (chromed tanks not being particularly fashionable during the 70's and 80's).  

[rbaisa]

Thanks for the response.  I wonder what the chrome underneath will look like when I take the paint off.

[Grizzly]

The tank on my 1957 B31 was painted siver. With a load of catty on the tank base.
Fearing the worst I set too with paint stripper. I need not have worried. The chrome was still there under the paint with no accident damage. Why someone put catty on the base I dont know because it was perfect, it had certainly never been opened.
With new chrome and paint the tank looks as good as new now.
Go for it, get that paint off!  

[rbaisa]

Thanks for the response Grizzly.  When I get to the tank I will make sute I post what I find.