185 Plastic replacement gas tank.. won't fit

[garretatc]

I just bought a replacement plastic gas tank on ebay for my 83 ATC185. It won't fit over the frame where the air box vent is. Right up near the steering neck. Anyone know how to solve this problem or if I trim the vent will it fit?

[Dirtcrasher]

I've had a few tanks not fit so well and I used a Dremel to grind them up a bit. Other guys may have another method, such as a heat gun and leaving something in there to keep it stretched until it cools and stays in shape........

[atctim]

We had the same problem with an aftermarket tank fitting a 200S. We took the guard off the back bone that covers the intake holes. Just cut it right off.

[Threes company]

your best bet is to take a large C-clamp and slowly squeeze the air intake on the frame backbone in, no grinding or cutting needed. Careful.... it doesnt take much pressure to bend and you only have to push it in a very slight amount. try fitting the tank on until you have a nice tight fit. This is how i installed a clarke tank on my 200es and all thats needed to hold the tank in place is the one bolt at the rear of the tank. hope this helps.

[garretatc]

thanks guys, I contacted the seller and there was supposedly installation instructions sent with it but it was the first thing i looked for when i opened the box. they said to use the c clamp method.