Rajan Wilcox
Gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks are fuel tanks that use gravity to transfer fuel from an auxiliary tank to a primary tank. The legality of gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks varies depending on the location and the type of fuel involved. In the United States, gravity feed systems for gasoline are illegal, while those for diesel are permitted as long as they meet certain requirements. In Canada, one source mentions that gravity feed systems are illegal, while another source states that they are acceptable and legal. The legality of gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks in Canada remains unclear, with no definitive sources confirming their legal status.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality of gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks in Canada | Unclear, but likely illegal |
| Safety concerns | Yes, safety concerns in the event of an accident have been raised |
| Performance issues | May adversely affect federally mandated, manufacturer-implemented, on-board vehicle diagnostic systems |
| Fuel type | Cannot be used for gasoline, only diesel |
| Fuel tank requirements | Must be DOT approved and SAE approved |
| Fuel line requirements | Must be long and flexible enough to accommodate normal movements without damage and secured against chafing, kinking, or other causes of mechanical damage |
| Fuel system location | Cannot extend beyond the widest part of the vehicle and no part of the fuel tank can be forward of the front axle of a power unit |
| Fuel flow | No connections or selector valves can prevent the factory fuel system from working in normal functions from any part failure |
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What You'll Learn
- Gravity feed systems are illegal for gasoline but legal for diesel
- Fuel tanks must meet safety standards and regulations
- Fuel flow must not be restricted by selector valves or fittings
- Fuel tanks must be clearly and permanently marked with specific information
- Gravity feed systems can adversely affect federally mandated vehicle diagnostic systems
Gravity feed systems are illegal for gasoline but legal for diesel
Gravity feed systems for gasoline also pose safety risks. In the event of an accident, the engine may be disabled, but gasoline can still be released from the tank. Gasoline has a low flashpoint and can easily ignite if it comes into contact with a hot surface. Diesel fuel, on the other hand, has a higher flashpoint and is less likely to ignite.
To ensure safety and legality, some companies choose not to endorse or promote the design, installation, or use of on-road gravity-fed auxiliary fuel systems. However, gravity feed systems for diesel fuel are allowed, provided they meet certain requirements, such as having a fuel cut-off mechanism and a certificate of approval.
It is important to note that regulations regarding fuel systems can vary between states and provinces, and it is always best to consult with local authorities or experts to understand the specific rules and requirements in your area.
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Fuel tanks must meet safety standards and regulations
To ensure safety and compliance with regulations, fuel tanks must adhere to specific guidelines. Firstly, fuel tanks should be clearly and permanently marked with the manufacturer's name, manufacture date, gallon size, and a statement indicating compliance with FMCSA requirements for non-side-mounted fuel tanks. It is also important that the fuel connections from the auxiliary fuel tank to the primary system do not interfere with the normal functions of the primary system. The auxiliary fuel tank lines, fittings, valves, and connections should be of a similar size to the primary system to ensure unrestricted fuel flow.
Additionally, fuel lines must be long enough and flexible enough to accommodate the movement of attached parts without sustaining damage. They should also be secured to prevent chafing, kinking, or other mechanical damage. When pressure devices are used to force fuel from the tank, an excess flow valve is necessary to prevent fuel flow in case of a broken fuel feed line.
Gravity feed fuel systems can impact federally mandated on-board vehicle diagnostic systems, causing issues with the check engine light and potentially masking valid vehicle problems. This is an important consideration for newer vehicles. Furthermore, gravity-fed systems can lead to overfilling, which may result in the sealing of the rollover OEM valve, impacting safety in the event of a rollover.
To summarize, while the legality of gravity-fed auxiliary fuel systems in Canada may be unclear, ensuring that fuel tanks meet safety standards and regulations is crucial. Compliance with marking, sizing, and fuel line requirements, as well as addressing potential issues with diagnostic systems and overfilling, are key factors in maintaining safety and adhering to regulations.
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Fuel flow must not be restricted by selector valves or fittings
To comply with this requirement, it is essential to select and install the appropriate valves and fittings that are properly sized and compatible with the fuel system. The valves should be designed to allow unrestricted fuel flow while still providing the necessary functionality, such as fuel selection, shut-off, or backflow prevention.
Additionally, proper installation techniques must be followed. This includes ensuring that the valves and fittings are securely connected to the fuel lines and tanks, without any obstructions or leaks that could disrupt fuel flow. The use of appropriate tubing, hoses, and connectors that maintain a smooth and consistent inner diameter is crucial to promoting uninterrupted fuel flow.
It is also important to consider the overall fuel system design and ensure that the valves and fittings are appropriately positioned. The fuel lines should be routed in a way that minimizes bends and eliminates kinks, as these can restrict fuel flow. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fuel system are important to prevent clogs or debris buildup that could hinder the flow of fuel.
By following these guidelines and ensuring that selector valves and fittings do not restrict fuel flow, you can maintain the proper functioning of your auxiliary fuel system and comply with the legal requirements in Canada.
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Fuel tanks must be clearly and permanently marked with specific information
In Canada, gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks are not explicitly illegal. However, there are stringent regulations surrounding their use. Fuel tanks must be clearly and permanently marked with specific information to ensure safety and compliance with legal requirements.
Firstly, fuel tanks must be marked with the manufacturer's name and the manufacturing date. This information provides traceability and accountability, allowing for proper quality control and product recalls if necessary. Additionally, the gallon size of the tank should be indicated, helping users understand the capacity and any associated restrictions.
Secondly, the fuel tank should bear the statement, "Meets all FMCSA requirements for non-side-mounted fuel tanks." This statement ensures compliance with the regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations encompass safety standards and performance requirements for fuel tanks used in motor vehicles.
Another crucial marking on the fuel tank is the statement, "Not to exceed 95% of capacity." This warning is essential for preventing overfilling, which can lead to fuel spillage and potential safety hazards. By adhering to this marking, users can mitigate the risks associated with overfilling, such as fuel leakage and environmental contamination.
Furthermore, fuel tanks should have clear markings regarding the fuel connections and auxiliary fuel tank lines. These markings should indicate that the connections, lines, fittings, valves, and selection control valve must not render any functions of the primary system inoperative. In other words, the auxiliary fuel tank setup should not interfere with the normal functioning of the factory fuel system.
Lastly, fuel tanks must be marked with additional safety precautions. For instance, each fuel line must be long enough and flexible enough to accommodate the normal movements of the parts it is attached to without incurring damage. This marking ensures that fuel lines are installed correctly, reducing the risk of mechanical damage, fuel leaks, and potential safety hazards.
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Gravity feed systems can adversely affect federally mandated vehicle diagnostic systems
Gravity feed systems are a type of fuel tank that uses gravity to transfer fuel from an auxiliary tank to the primary tank of a vehicle. While these systems can be legal in some jurisdictions, they may also adversely affect federally mandated vehicle diagnostic systems.
In Canada, for example, there are conflicting reports on the legality of gravity feed systems. Some sources indicate that they are illegal, while others suggest that they are acceptable as long as certain requirements are met. These requirements pertain to the marking of fuel tanks, the sizing of fuel connections, and the functionality of the primary fuel system.
Federally mandated vehicle diagnostic systems, such as On-Board Diagnostics (OBD), are designed to monitor and regulate various aspects of a vehicle's performance, including emissions. OBD systems have become increasingly prevalent worldwide, with the European Union, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and California mandating their use at various times since the early 2000s.
The potential issue with gravity feed systems lies in their impact on fuel flow and pressure. Gravity feed systems rely solely on gravity to transfer fuel, and any disruption in this process can affect fuel delivery. Similar to gravity-fed water systems, blockages or malfunctions in the conduits can impair fuel flow. This, in turn, can affect the vehicle's performance and emissions, which are monitored by the OBD system.
To maintain the integrity of federally mandated vehicle diagnostic systems, it is crucial to ensure that all components of the fuel system are in good working condition. This includes regular inspections and maintenance to prevent blockages and disruptions in fuel flow. By considering the potential challenges associated with gravity feed systems and implementing appropriate measures, vehicle owners can help ensure compliance with diagnostic system requirements and maintain the overall functionality of their vehicles.
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Frequently asked questions
Gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tanks are not illegal in Canada, but they are not endorsed due to safety concerns.
Gravity-fed systems can cause issues with federally mandated on-board vehicle diagnostic systems. In addition, the overfill tendencies of gravity-fed systems can lead users to seal the rollover valve, which is a safety feature that prevents fuel leakage in the event of a rollover.
Gravity-fed systems can also affect the performance of newer vehicles, keeping the main fuel tank overfull and resulting in a diagnostic trouble code.
Auxiliary fuel tanks must be SAE approved to be legal in Canada. They must also be clearly and permanently marked with the manufacturer's name, manufacture date, gallon size, and state "Meets all FMCSA requirements for non-side mounted fuel tank" and "not to exceed 95% of capacity."
