Motorcycle Repair: Gas tank problem, hex nuts, tank problem

Question
Hi,
I have a '98 FLSTF. I had been having problems with sputtering for years. I had taken the bike to several shops and dealerships with no clear answer. Last summer I took the bike in and told the shop to remove the gas from the tank and look inside.
Harley Davidson, at one time, was coating the inside of gas tanks with some type mixture that has been slowly sloughing off. The pieces of material that came out of my tank were incredible. It is my understanding that HD is aware of this problem. My problem is that the only repair is a new tank. Do you know anything about this problem? DO you have any information on who to contact at HD. I am told by fellow riders that I am not the 1st this has happened to.

Thank you

Answer
You will get no help from HD because of the age of the bike.  Put a couple small hex nuts in your tanks and shake them to get all the loose stuff off.  Or look on Ebay for used tanks.  There is no easy or quick solution to your problem.  You just have to clean the inside of the tanks and keep the tank filter clean.  Also your carb bowl and idle jet will clog.  If your tanks are not dented or scratched, Harley has an exchange program for painted parts. Check with your dealer. Sorry I don't have any real good news and yes I've seen the problem many times.