Hard to Lock Gas Cap - what works for you?

[newbert]

It's been quite awhile since this happened to me, but today I had a HELL of a time closing/locking the gas cap on my 2016 F3T. I know that it can be improved by quite a bit thru the application of some sort of grease/lube, but I don't remember what I used last time. So what works for you? Would Silicon Grease work?

Note: I DON'T want to replace the cap with a 3rd party device.

Thanks!

[RICZ]

You are going to get replies to apply various lubricants. Although they will afford a little help, the real solution is to take the cap apart and remove the latch, as that's the culprit. The top surface of it is too high, so file it down about 1/16" + and that should do it. If not, take it down some more. This worked for me. Like you, I wanted to keep the OEM locking cap.
IMPORTANT - place a rag in the neck so cap parts don't end up in your tank.

[pieman9155]

yes Silicon Grease would work used it om wife bike

[Gwolf]

Turn key, push down, it always latches.

[al0vely]

Turn key, push down, it always latches.

This is way too easy ... it works for me also every time on my 2016.

[jcthorne]

Lubricate the sliding latch bar that is beveled on the end. We use a product called TriFlow that works very well and lasts far longer than most other lubes that wash off from gasoline.

[JP58]

As others have said. Lube the seal and latch. Vaseline petroleum also works. But most importantly turn the key clockwise all the way. Then push down and return key to home position. Will latch easy every time.