V-Twin Mfg. Standard 2.4 Gallon Gas Tank For Harley Sportster 1952-1970

Timeless Restoration: V-Twin Mfg. 2.4 Gallon Tank for Early Sportsters

For the purist restorer and the vintage enthusiast, the silhouette of the early Ironhead Sportster is sacred. The V-Twin Mfg. Standard 2.4 Gallon Gas Tank is a meticulous recreation of the legendary “peanut” tank that graced Harley-Davidson Sportsters and K-models from 1952 through 1970. This was the era that established the Sportster as a lean, mean, and agile machine, and this tank is the key to capturing that authentic mid-century aesthetic. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration on a 1960s XLCH or building a period-correct 1950s-style bobber, this tank provides the exact proportions and heritage styling required for a masterpiece build.

Historical Accuracy and Period-Correct Details

V-Twin Manufacturing has gone to great lengths to ensure this tank meets the expectations of vintage collectors. This 2.4-gallon fuel cell is a direct replacement for OEM part number 61006-63 (and earlier variations). It features the correct narrow profile that allows the engine to remain the focal point of the motorcycle. Unlike later-model tanks, this unit is designed to accept the early-style cam-lock gas caps and features a 3/8″ NPT fuel valve bung. These technical details are crucial for riders who want to utilize period-correct petcocks and hardware, ensuring that every component on the bike remains era-appropriate.

Premium Construction for Vintage Reliability

While the design is vintage, the manufacturing utilizes modern standards of durability. Constructed from high-quality, heavy-gauge steel, this tank is built to withstand the high-frequency vibrations characteristic of the early Ironhead and K-model engines. The one-piece steel body is precision-stamped to ensure smooth, uniform curves that require minimal bodywork. The mounting tabs are positioned specifically for the early Sportster frames, providing a stable and secure fitment that respects the original engineering of the 1952–1970 production run.

• Capacity: Authentic 2.4-gallon (approx. 9.1 liters) volume.
• Hardware Support: Designed for 3/8″ NPT petcocks and bayonet/cam-lock style caps.
• Fitment: Compatible with 1952-1956 K-models and 1957-1970 XL Sportsters.
• Material: Drawn raw steel for maximum strength and paint adhesion.

Professional Preparation for a Show-Quality Finish

This tank arrives in a raw steel finish, preserved with a light coat of oil to prevent flash rusting during transit. To achieve a professional finish, proper preparation is mandatory. We strongly recommend that all vintage tanks be pressure tested and treated with a high-quality internal tank sealer before painting. Sealing the interior is especially important for vintage restorations to protect against the corrosive nature of modern fuels, which can be much harsher on steel than the gasoline available in the 1950s and 60s. Always “dry fit” the tank to your frame, checking for clearance against your rocker boxes and triple trees, before proceeding with your custom paint or chrome plating.

Why Choose V-Twin Mfg. for Your Vintage Harley?

With a legacy of supporting the antique and vintage Harley-Davidson community, V-Twin Mfg. is the trusted source for hard-to-find replica parts. This 2.4 Gallon Peanut Tank is a testament to their commitment to keeping motorcycling history alive. By choosing this tank, you are ensuring that your 1952–1970 Sportster retains its legendary look while benefiting from the structural integrity of a brand-new steel component. Relive the glory days of the Ironhead era and ride with the pride of a perfectly restored classic.