Mounting flanged aluminum gas tanks

[polevault1977]

I finally scraped up enough green to buy an aluminum gas tank. It has a flange that run the full length of the tank on each side that can be drilled and mounted to the rear frame section. I think they intended for it to mount solidly to the frame, but I think it should be on rubber mounts. I'm trying to come up with a good plan for this. I know minibike and several others have this type of set-up. Any pics would be apprecaited.

I'm thinking the if the frame has any twisting going on, that it will rip the aluminum tank. Any thoughts welcomed.

Thanks, Danny

[Kid]

On the ones I have (built) installed, I use a 1/8" rubber strap between the flange and frame. Be sure to ground the tank to the frame though with a ground strap, for safety (static elect.). If your frame is twisting enough to damage your tank flanges, (witch I don't believe would happen) you need to address your frame ("loose" crossmembers rivets??). If it's moving that much, that would be affecting your wheel alignment (front & rear)

[cableguy0]

the frames in these old trucks dont twist very much at all unless they are trash. i definately wouldnt see it twisting enough to rip the aluminum.

[polevault1977]

Thanks for the responses. My frame is in very good shape with tight rivets. I just thought the frame might tweek a little when going over uneven pavement. Its got to flex a little or it will fatigue. I guess it would move very little though. 1/4 inch rubber would probably more than do the trick. Thanks again, Danny

[minibike]

Mine is mounted directly to the frame with two bolts on each side...maybe three. I'm personally not concerned with the frame moving enough to bother the aluminum tank. I would think the aluminum could take slight movements (something from school about modulus of elasticity comest to mind, but that's getting a little to technical). The only problem I have had, is getting a couple of the bed bolts in after the tank was installed.