I just finished some regular maintenance to my 84 VF500F (oil change, new plugs and tightend the chain), as I put my tank back and connected all the lines. I turned the fuel on and it started right up! It ran for about 2 minutes and stalled. The problem turns out, there is no fuel coming from the tank. I've had the petcock checked, I've replaced the fuel filter and had the fuel pump checked, all passed with flying colours. Does anyone know the inner workings on the tank? Any ideas at all!!!!!!!!!! Its been 2.5 weeks since I've been able to ride. I'll try anything! I've called all the cycle salvage yards around and nobody has a used tank. I found a new one in London England but it was going to be 900 pounds to get here. Thats $1800's!!!!!! I really want to keep this and completely re-build it. Its been fun working on and now I'm stuck! Thanks!
Sounds like there is some debris blocking the fule from getting out of the tank. I would drain it, clean it out real good, and then use some type of sealer/coating on the inside to protect it. Also, check to make sure none of the screens in the petcock are blocked. if you have already done this, then disregard the above. Maybe someone else might have a better clue.
Is there gas in the tank? Just kidding. Does gas come out of the petcock with the fuel line removed? If not, must be stopped up. Is there a vacuum line running to the petcock? I can't remember if the 500 has one or not.
If i understood the manual correctly, the vacuum line that goes to the petcock open a valve when the engine is running and allows gas to flow only when the engine is running. This valve does not effect the Reserve position, so I would suggest trying it with the tank in Res.