Dannys post just reminded me of something regarding the fuel tank. The front mounting bolt washers on my bike look like they are isolated with rubber inside. Is this to isolate the tank from electric current to prevent sparks, or is it anti vibration?
Actually, it's usual practice for all fuel systems to be electrically connected (elecrically common). What causes sparks is a difference in electrical potential. Keeping parts electrically connected is important for safety. It's when parts don't have solid electrical connections that you have a safety problem. For example, all hoses that carry fuel have to be made of conductive materials. This is to prevent a build up of static charge which could build up high enough in voltage to jump a spark.
I happen to be an aircraft engineer with a specialty in fuel systems.
Yes, that's what happened to the Hindenburg. When they dropped the anchor lines down they earthed, creating a spark which ignited the material. I didn't know that about fuel lines though. Thanks
