Hey y'all, I just wanted to document my experience with a major gas leak that occurred after working on the ST1300. I was installing an electric Rostra cruise control but same thing could easily occur changing the air filter. During part of the installation the gas tank was loosened, slid back and lifted from the front, supporting it with a wood block. This is exactly the same for changing the air filter. The difference was that I left the tank in this position for a few days. During the work I noted a slight gas smell but noted no leaking. I attributed the odor to having the intakes exposed and the engine primed a couple of times when turning the key off and on. The tank was low on gas as recommended in the manual for any work in this area. After the work was completed I test rode the bike a couple of times noting no problems. I then rode the bike in to fill it up, topping it off completely. I immediately noted a significant gas leak. At this point my actions were not very smart. I then rode the bike home, thinking I needed to get to some tools so I could lift the tank and reconnect the leaking hose. On arriving home the gas was pouring out, now down on hot exhaust. As quickly as possible the tank was removed but not without gas leaking everywhere, including on us. Thank God there was no issue. Sometimes I really stress my guardian angel. I cannot tell y'all how stressful this was or how absolutely stupid I felt afterward. We were very lucky.
The hose leaking was the main drain line from the tank. It apparently tore/ruptured after being bent during the time the gas tank was lifted up and back. When I refilled the tank after repair of the leaking hose, I had lost 3.5 gallons of gas.
The bike is an '07 so the hose is 5 years old but still seems soft and flexible enough. It can be replace at least temporarily by a Dayco hose #A71370.
I am writing this to warn others of this possible failure and hopefully prevent any serious fires that might result.
What have I learned?
#1. The main gas hose on the back of the ST's tank can crack significantly.
#2. This may have a very subtle presentation.
#3. Do not keep your gas tank up,with the hose bent, for extended periods of time.
#4. Check this hose carefully after any maintenance that requires moving the tank.
#5. Do not ignore a gas smell, it is coming from somewhere.
#6. If your bike starts leaking gas, even away from a convenient location, push it somewhere safe and let it sit until it stops and then investigate.
Please be careful with this problem, We were very luck...
