Motorcycle Gas Cap. Loose?

Question

Bought a used suzuki katana 600 (gsx-f) 1998. Runs pretty good but needs some work (clutch and and oil leak).Over all im satisfied with the bike though.

Now onto the question- When i got the bike, it was a little loose on the cap, with the cap not securely going all the way down. Theres a little bit of play it in and u can push it when its locked. This is my first bike, and im pretty sure thats not how its supposed to be. I ended up washing my bike today, and it got water was in the seems around the tank, and some got in. Minimal but some. When i started her up to go for a ride, it started to bog and wouldnt pick up speed. after about 10 mins the water burned off in the oil tank and she finally got up and went. I can smell gas fumes when i stop and im not getting that good of gas mileage.

any suggestions other then getting a new gas cap??

Answer 1

I would start with inspecting the gasket around the cap that comes into contact with the tank. It could be worn, cracked or even gone. If it is there and in relatively good shape you can try to bend over the two tangs that enter in the tank. This would help apply more pressure to the gasket area. If you attempt this do it a little at a time. If not you will be buying a new cap. Good luck.

Answer 2

replace the seal, its probably compressed