Frank,
Yes metal gas tank.
Turns out it was the ignition switch. All crusted over inside (like Ajmboy's shorts, JK thanks for the link).
I pulled apart and cleaned, carb, air box, starter. Clean out the gas tank. Replaced front brake lever/master cylinder assy, rear brake shoes. New battery.
Looks like a bag of as* (plastics fk'd) but starts right up and purrs like a kitten.