Petrol cap rubber seal.

[atc40]

Just received a new petrol cap seal as the old one fitted 12 years ago has split. The new one fits around the petrol cap lip perfectly, but the cap will not close! The seal seems to be too thick. I remember having to shave some rubber off of the old one when originally fitted but that was to clear the locking pin. Have done a search to see if anyone else has had this problem, and it appears that it has been a problem since 2009. Apparently this is an mot failure if not fitted, think I will keep the old one and use that for the MOT test if I cannot get the new one to fit. Anyone have suggestions on how to overcome the problem, please.
Thanks.
Andy.

[DJT]

Andy,

Have you tried lubricating it? When new they are stiff and sticky Smearing some petroleum jelly on the domed surface allows it to slide a bit when closing the cap.

[atc40]

Thanks Dave, will give anything a go, will try tomorrow.
However it is not stiff or sticky, but dry and pliable.
There just seems to be too much thickness to it!
Cheers.
Andy.

[V Mad]

I had the same problem and had to trim the rubber. To get a smooth contour I used a bench grinder to remove the excess rubber.

[atc40]

Seal now fitted, the thickness of the seal was reduced, by filing, on the opposite side to the locking bar. Now a better fit than the old one.

Thanks Dave & Chris for your help.

Andy.