How to Install a Harley Gas Tank Emblem

Transform your Harley with a dramatic gas tank emblem.

Attached with simple double-sided tape, motorcycle emblems on modern motorcycles are made from masking vinyl, decal vinyl or chrome-coated vinyl. Real metal emblems -- the ultimate gas tank accent -- have not been used since the early days of the Indian motorcycle. Hells Bells Customs creates one-of-a-kind 3-D metal tank sculptures that are integrated into the tank's construction, but these custom works of art need to be installed by Hells Bells.



For a simple do-it-yourself alternative, choose from a wide variety of vinyl or chrome-coated vinyl decals readily available online; transform your Harley into a one-of-kind in minutes. Depending upon the look you are trying to achieve and the size and theme of the emblem, it can be applied to the top side, right side or left side of the tank.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Clean cloth
• Cloth tape measure
• Crayon
• Adhesive glue, panel bond or double-sided tape

1. Preparation and Installation

   • 1

     Clean the area where the emblem will be placed. Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and wipe the area thoroughly. Continue when the area is dry to the touch.

   • 2

     Set the emblem in place. Measure for a perfectly centered fit. Draw an outline of the emblem with a crayon.

   • 3

     Proceed to step 4 if the emblem has an adhesive backing. Apply adhesive, double-sided tape or panel bond to the back side of the emblem. Apply adhesive or panel bond sparingly, ensuring the surface is covered. Cut double-sided tape to fit the decal, ensuring the tape is within the outside edges.

   • 4

     Place the emblem within the outline drawn on the gas tank. Press it firmly onto the gas tank making sure all the edges are flush with the gas tank. Smooth the emblem lightly with your fingers to ensure there are no bubbles or ripples. Continue to press firmly for a couple of minutes or more.

   • 5

     Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and remove the crayon outline and excess adhesive. Allow the adhesive to set for at least 24 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow the adhesive to cure completely before riding the motorcycle.

• Smooth the edges periodically throughout the curing process to ensure the emblem is sticking to the gas tank uniformly.