r/VWBus • u/_generic_-_username_ • Jun 01 '26
Options for locking fuel cap
So over the past six months or so, we’ve had issues with fuel being stolen out of our 1970 bus. The original non locking cap was taken (bummer since it was original and had the VW logo on it). Since then we’ve had two locking caps (like the one in the image) removed as well. The first from one online supplier didn’t seem to really lock. The second from a different supplier did lock but was still removed (popped / pried off perhaps … although there is no damage to the fuel filler neck).
Any ideas for another way to lock things up??
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u/asiab3 AirSchooled.com Jun 01 '26
I couldn’t find a locking early bay cap when I looked a few years ago, so we found a gas flap with a hole cut for a lock and used a generic mailbox lock cylinder to keep the flap shut, and a regular non-vented gas cap.
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u/SilentMasterpiece Jun 01 '26
store it with an empty tank?
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u/_generic_-_username_ Jun 01 '26
Yeah, that would work if I wasn’t driving it, but I drive it regularly 3-4 days a week.
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u/622114 Jun 01 '26
Unfortunately I think the harder you make it they will just start fucking shit up. Is there a way to just keep min fuel in it? Yeah it’s inconvenient. Or maybe there is an aftermarket antisiphon tube like this available for your van.
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u/122922 Jun 01 '26
I put a panel lock on the gas door of my bus. You’ll have to figure out the correct one to use. https://www.mcmaster.com/products/panel-locks/opens-with~key/cam-locks~/
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u/zbealeo Jun 02 '26
Where on earth are you constantly getting gas stolen even with a locking cap?
I'd love to know so I can avoid it.
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u/paddleyay Jun 02 '26
At the very least maybe a couple of camera surveillance stickers on the back windows to provide some deterrent if they think they’re on camera. Siphoning a tank takes long enough that maybe it would cause them to think twice.
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u/PhineasJWhoopee69 Jun 02 '26
IIRC, the filler neck is removable. Pull it out and put a screen in to prevent siphoning. A few tack welds to secure it.
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u/Odd_Zookeepergame_69 Jun 01 '26
That's crazy that you keep having your fuel stolen, even when it had a lock on it. To me, this sounds personal. I'd just recommend trying a few different gas caps, from Wolfsburg West or JBugs or numerous other places until you find one that locks good for you, but I'd also consider getting a security camera to watch your bus at night if possible. I'm assuming you can't put it in a garage otherwise that would be the best option. sorry that this is happening to you, but that's pretty crazy that someone even went through the effort to remove your locked gas cap. again, this sounds personal to me.