Sputtering issue and rust

Joined
Oct 28, 2024
Messages
186
Age
63
Location
NJ
Bike
ST1300
2003 ST1300 52k miles, I've noticed the bike is sputtering under power. Not too often but nevertheless was doing time to time.
I got most of the gas out and pulled the fuel filter. What I see is a good chunk of rust on the bottom of the lower tank. Cleaned it out and replaced the fuel filter. When I cut open the old filter, it was all black inside.
After replacing it, the problem didn't go away, and I think got even worse. Today I thought it won't make it up the hill.
Should I replace the pump (and the mesh under it)? Clean injectors? Anything else?
 
On my 2004, I've had rust in the lower tank twice. Mainly because I left the bike sit for several years. The first time I cleaned out the tank and replaced the fuel pump/filter. And then, let it sit again. The second time, I replaced the lower tank, fuel pump and filter. And the bike is running fine.

Since I'm no longer commuting and putting 125 miles a day on my bikes, I use a couple of ounces of seafoam in my tanks, every now and then. And make sure the tank is full, to keep it from rusting when it it sitting.
 
The upper tank shows signs of rust too, but the prev owner said that he replaced the pump before selling it. it was never a problem in 5 years I'm owing the bike. I wouldn't want to deal with replacing tanks now. Was thinking of selling the bike anyway now.
 
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