Motorcycle Repair: 84 honda magna 700, empty gas tank, honda magna

Question
I have a 1984 Magna 700 and the gas tank lock just spins when the correct key is inserted.  It used to turn 180 degrees counter clockwise to unlock and to then again 180 degrees clockwise to lock but now it rotates freely.  How can I repair?  Do I have to replace the tank?

Answer
Hi Bruce... sorry for the delay, my email system keeps acting up on me!!
Ok... at the bottom of the lock cylinder are two pillars pointing downward, they engage the lock sliders. It sounds as if your pillars have broke. You don't have to get a new tank, but you will need a new gas cap. The problem is you can't remove the gas cap unless you can open it. Two choices come to mind, one involves taking the empty gas tank to a locksmith... the other involves carefully drilling the lock cylinder out until you can see the lock sliders and manipulate them with small screw drivers. You have to be careful not to drill too deep, lest you will go thru the cap and get metal shavings in your tank. When you can see the sliders, spray them with a lubricant... it's safe to assume that the pillars broke cuz the sliders are stuck, the lubricant will unstick them and allow you to slide them with a small screw driver... Good Luck Bruce and let me know if ya need more help.

Jack