can't get fuel tank open

Trying to bring 81 KZ1300 back to life after years of sitting in a shed.Previous owner bent key trying to open tank while I was standing there. Well, I brought it home and lubed it and coaxed it and cant get it to move. I have another key but need to know which direction to turn it before trying to lightly pry it. Any direction or ideas?

The front of the petrol flap should move up and down a few mm against the spring pressure. The key needs to turn clockwise in the lock.

The key slot "normally" runs in line with the bike front to back rather than across side to side.

I think almost any Kawasaki key will normally operate the lock in the flap? I have a different ignition key on mine and both keys operate the petrol flap.

Give it plenty of WD40 both in the lock and under the cap and let it do its work for a few days. If that doesn't work, get the crowbar out :whistle: .

clockwise was the key! thanks

Tank looks rough inside, time to take it off. Any tips before I dig in? looks simple enough...

I clean my tanks out with fish tank gravel. Remove tank, fuel gauge sender and fuel tap. Seal up with gaffer tape and pour in gravel.
Give it a good shake around and will remove a load of shite. then a good flushing with water via a hose pipe. May have to do a few times to fully clean. Remember to let the tank dry out for a few days. I place mine in the boiler room to dry out.

Hope this helps you out.