Sealing petrol taps into the tank

[Oggers]

Chaps

Quick Q please

I have now managed to shear my reserve petrol tap on the Viper. I have ordered a new one as below

https://www.groveclassicmotorcycles.co.uk/A26R-Petrol-Tap---Lever-Type---Reserve

Clearly the L/H side 1/4 BSP screws into the tank boss. Any advice as to sealing methods please? The old one simply had a Dowty washer and I am not sure if that is adequate.

 

[iansoady]

I always use Dowty washers and find they work very well - better than the old fibre ones which these days tend to be far too hard. But make sure you get them with Viton seals.....

[Oggers]

Ian

Why Viton and not Nitrile? I thought Viton was for high Temp only?

[iansoady]

It's more resistant to current fuels as I understand it.

[Rex]

A new "soft" red fibre washer and a couple of turns of PTFE tape. Using the tape also allows perfect tap positioning too.

[R]

A trace of soap paste wiped onto the threads seals pretty good too.
Regardless of which seals you use ...

[Oggers]

Just to be clear on fitting the tap

Before fitting, place Dowty washer or fibre washer over the tap end to make flush with the locknut
PTFE tape/soap - whatever onto the exposed portion if the thread
Screw into tank boss - lever facing outwards
Do up locknut

Is this right?

[Rex]

Sounds good to me, although I like to wind a couple of extra turns where the fibre washer hole is to ensure that the hole is fully sealed too.

[iansoady]

That's why I prefer dowty washers. Plus as I mentioned it's very difficult to get fibre ones that are not rock-hard.

[Oggers]

Thanks chaps- I have used Dowty washers and all seems well - so far....

Supplementary question if I may. The kickstart bush appears to be weeping oil. This is the main bush through which the kickstart shaft roatates. Bit of weep which is somewhat annoying. Apart from renewal, is there anything I can do here please?