Repair info forum

[mnray]

I'm 67, trying to figure out where I can go for some advice.  I have a 2001 1500.  During Harvey I had the bike in a shop for some minor repairs and tuneup.  The gas tank was left on the floor and of course during Harvey it flooded.  After a few months I finally got my bike back.  I made the mistake of taking it to a new shop that a was trying to open up.  Anyway, I've been down myself and havent' had time to mess with it.  The tank is in horrible condition with rust.  I've seen online to try Vinegar, and other methods, but was wondering if there might be a better solution other than completely replacing the tank.
If I am in the wrong area, please let me know.   I can also be reached at mnray@aol.com  I'm in South Houston, Texas.  The alternator shorted out during this time.  I have a new one and trying to start out replacing it and seeing where I need to go from there to fire her up.  Any help or direction is appreciated.  At 67 I'm not the most mechanical but I can still follow instructions.  Thanks.

[Disco]

Flood bikes / cars are tough...

I have a rescue here with the worst rusty tank I've ever seen.  After reading up on everything from vinegar to electrolysis, I've decided to use Evapo-Rust, mainly because it will not affect the paint.  If the paint on your tank is bad and you don't need or want to protect it, try the vinegar.  It works and is much cheaper than the Evapo-Rust.  You'll also need to rebuild the petcock and replace the screen set inside the tank, above the petcock.  

Alternators can be tricky to install.  

Considering your bike hasn't run since before Harvey, if the carburetors were not drained, you may have some clogged slow jets.  There is a shortcut that can be tried before rebuilding the carbs, but you might be better off by skipping that and going straight to rebuild.

[Rocketman]

South Houston in my area, and alternators are my wheelhouse.  Holler if you'd like a hand getting it in.  It's one of those things that is easier done than described.

Mark

[HayHauler]

I also have a fair amount of experience replacing alternators.  I just replaced mine for the 4th time, due to the front housing nut coming loose.  It sounded like there was a main bearing or something rattling around in the valve train.
Let Mark and I when you want to do it and we might be able to help you make things go a bit easier than my first time. 

HayHauler
Jimmyt