Hello, on my original rusted gas tank there are only 2 holes on the underside, the fuel sending and petcock mounting holes. I see these versions of tanks up to 86
(http://fjowners.com/gallery/9/1500_17_07_15_7_31_37.jpeg)
but on other versions of tanks I see an additional outlet.. what's it for? I see that extra outlet on 84 to 86 tanks
(http://fjowners.com/gallery/9/1500_17_07_15_7_32_46.jpeg)
I would guess that it's the fuel vapor vent tube.
A hose should connect to that on California spec bikes, that routes to the vapor recovery system for emission regs.
looks like your correct Firehawk068, after checking, it looks like that metal outlet is the precursor to the later black plastic vent located between the forward tank mounting brackets.
They were not on the 84 tanks.....but just on the 85.
My bike was sold as an 85, but the build date shows late 84.
Thanks