Harley Davidson gas tank Emblem 1940-1946 Knucklehead Flathead

Buying from Stateside Speed Shop

How we sort, photograph, and describe what we sell

Everything on this site has been through our shop in Austin, Texas. We photograph in daylight, describe what's right and what's wrong, and answer condition questions before you buy — not after. If a part is cracked, dented, helicoiled, or freshened up with bondo by a previous owner, the listing says so. If we don't know something, we say "we don't know" rather than guess.

• Photos are of the actual item, never stock images.
• VIN / serial numbers listed when present; we run NICB reports on titled engines on request.
• Condition language is calibrated against the photos, not the opposite.
• WhatsApp video walkarounds before you commit — just ask.

Buying a vintage tank

Things we check on tanks

Vintage tanks come with their own checklist: internal rust, pinholes, weeping seams, prior repairs (brazing, lead solder, bondo on the outside hiding damage), mount tab condition, and whether the petcock threads have been chased. We flush and inspect every tank before listing. Tanks that need a liner get noted as such. Original paint and decals — even rough — are usually worth more to a restorer than a fresh repaint; we describe condition rather than judge it.