Katerina Swanson
Long-range fuel tanks are a safe and simple way to increase a vehicle's travelling range. They are particularly useful for 4WD vehicles that head into remote areas, where the long distances between refuelling can be an issue for standard vehicles. Long-range fuel tanks are available in a variety of materials, including plastic, steel, and aluminium, and can be designed to fit most makes and models of vehicles. They can provide a significant increase in fuel capacity, allowing vehicles to travel much longer distances without needing to refuel. For example, a 35-gallon long-range fuel tank can increase the average range of a vehicle from 200 miles to over 400 miles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Increase vehicle's travelling range |
| Use case | Essential for any 4WD heading off into remote areas |
| Design | Individually designed and tailored to suit each vehicle |
| Design features | Internal baffling, anti surge dam, in-built expansion chamber, fully sealed brackets |
| Material | 2mm Aluminised Steel (14 Gauge) |
| Installation | Easy to install |
| Stability | Stable on rough terrain |
| Compatibility | Compatible with both single and twin tank setups |
| Capacity | 90L, 140L, 37 gallons, 35 gallons, 24 gallons, 17 gallons, 250L |
| Shipping | Ships worldwide |
| Warranty | 3-year warranty |
| Thickness | 7-9mm, 8mm (11mm at corners) |
| Weight | 22 kilograms |
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What You'll Learn
Long Range Fuel Tanks: Worth the Money?
Long-range fuel tanks can be a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle and worry of frequently refuelling, especially when travelling in remote areas or regions with sparse fuel stations. However, they come at a significant cost, typically ranging from $1000 to $1800, and may not be necessary for everyone. So, are they worth the money? Let's delve into the advantages and considerations to help you decide.
Advantages of Long-Range Fuel Tanks
One of the primary benefits of long-range fuel tanks is the extended range they offer. This added range provides peace of mind, eliminating the constant worry of running out of fuel and the need to frequently search for fuel stations. This is especially advantageous for those travelling with children, as it reduces the number of stops required, making the journey more seamless and enjoyable for the entire family.
Additionally, long-range fuel tanks offer financial benefits. With a larger tank, you gain the flexibility to fill up when fuel prices are at their lowest, saving you money in the long run. This is particularly advantageous in regions with highly variable fuel prices, where skipping expensive fuel stops can result in significant savings.
Long-range fuel tanks also eliminate the need to carry additional fuel containers, such as jerry cans, which can be inconvenient and take up valuable space. This is especially relevant for off-road adventures, where the terrain may be challenging and the risk of puncturing a jerry can is higher.
Considerations
While long-range fuel tanks offer these benefits, there are a few important considerations. Firstly, the cost is a significant factor, and the upfront investment may outweigh the potential savings for some, especially when cheaper alternatives like jerry cans are available. The installation process can also be time-consuming, typically taking up to five hours, and may require additional modifications to your vehicle, such as reinforcing the rear coil towers to accommodate the extra weight.
Another factor to keep in mind is the reduced clearance that often comes with long-range fuel tanks. Due to their larger size, these tanks may sit lower than the factory tanks, impacting your vehicle's departure angle and affecting its off-road capabilities.
Lastly, it's important to prioritise quality when it comes to long-range fuel tanks. Opting for a cheaper, less durable tank may result in fuel leaks and costly repairs, especially when traversing rugged terrain.
Long-range fuel tanks offer undeniable advantages in terms of range, convenience, and potential cost savings. However, they also come with a substantial upfront cost and may not be necessary for everyone, especially those who don't frequently travel to remote locations or regions with sparse fuel stations. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and budget, and it's essential to carefully consider the advantages and considerations before investing in a long-range fuel tank.
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Long Range Fuel Tank Materials
Long-range fuel tanks are available in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here are some of the commonly used materials for long-range fuel tanks:
Aluminised Steel
Aluminised steel is a popular choice for long-range fuel tanks due to its strength and durability. It is often used in tanks designed for off-road vehicles, as it can withstand the challenges of varying track conditions and remote travelling. Tanks made from this material are designed to be safe and simple to install, with features like internal baffling, anti-surge dams, and fully sealed brackets. The Long Ranger fuel tanks, for example, use 2mm aluminised steel (14-gauge) and are tailored to suit individual vehicles.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another option for long-range fuel tanks, offering durability and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel tanks are often designed to be compatible with various vehicle models and terrain types. For instance, Long Range Automotive offers a 90L stainless steel water tank for Troopy VDJ78 models, suitable for both single and twin tank setups.
Cross-Linked Polymer
Some long-range fuel tanks, such as the ARB Frontier tanks, are made from cross-linked polymer. This material provides exceptional strength and rigidity while being significantly lighter than steel tanks. The polymer structure is designed to absorb impacts and return to its original shape, enhancing its durability. The polymer used in these tanks is also UV-stabilised, preventing damage from UV radiation in hostile environments.
Military-Grade Polymer
TITAN Fuel Tanks manufactures long-range fuel tanks from military-grade polymer, ensuring durability and resilience. These tanks are designed to handle extreme environments and are available for both diesel and gasoline off-road vehicles. Military-grade polymer tanks meet high standards and reflect a commitment to quality, making them a reliable choice for long-range fuel storage.
Aluminium
Heavy-gauge aluminium is another material used in long-range fuel tanks. It offers a balance between strength and weight, making it suitable for auxiliary fuel tank systems. These tanks are designed to blend seamlessly with pickup trucks, providing enhanced range without compromising safety or vehicle integrity. Internal baffles within the tanks help to enhance strength and reduce fuel sloshing during transport.
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Installation and Compatibility
Long-range fuel tanks are aftermarket, high-capacity fuel storage options for your vehicle. They are designed to replace the factory fuel tank and provide a larger fuel capacity, allowing you to drive longer distances without refuelling. The cost of a long-range fuel tank can vary depending on the vehicle and the size of the tank, typically ranging from $1000 to $1800, with additional costs for fitting and installation.
When it comes to installation and compatibility, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, long-range fuel tanks are designed to fit most makes and models of vehicles. They are typically designed as complete replacements for factory fuel tanks, and the installation process involves removing the original tank and utilising the original equipment, such as fuel pumps and pickup senders. It is important to ensure that all the emission features of the original tank are replicated in the new long-range tank.
Some long-range fuel tanks, such as the ARB Frontier Tank, are designed with a durable polymer structure that is thicker and sturdier than standard tanks. The use of cross-link polymer or impact-resistant plastic polymer provides exceptional strength and impact resistance, and the roto-moulding process allows for more intricate shapes, increasing overall tank volume. This type of tank is often designed with a unique mounting flange that operates similarly to the original equipment (OE) tank and ensures a secure fit.
It is important to note that installing a long-range fuel tank may result in reduced clearance, as they can hang down below the chassis rails or be mounted at the back of your vehicle. This can impact the departure angle of your vehicle. Additionally, long-range fuel tanks may require additional certification or signing off, depending on the state or country in which you reside.
The compatibility of a long-range fuel tank also depends on the type of engine your vehicle has. For example, the ARB Frontier Tank is designed specifically for diesel engines, as the cross-link polymer used is compatible with diesel fuel.
Overall, long-range fuel tanks offer a seamless installation process and are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles. However, it is important to consider the potential impact on clearance and departure angle, as well as any additional costs for fitting and installation.
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Safety Benefits
Long-range fuel tanks offer several safety benefits for drivers. Firstly, they eliminate the need for frequent fuel stops, allowing drivers to maximise their time on the road and avoid the potential risks associated with stopping in remote or unfamiliar locations. This extended driving range provides peace of mind and helps drivers feel more in control of their journey.
Additionally, long-range fuel tanks are designed to provide a safer and more stable driving experience. They are often made from high-quality materials, such as aluminised steel, which offers superior durability and strength compared to plastic tanks. This enhances the overall safety of the vehicle by reducing the risk of fuel tank damage in the event of an accident or when navigating rough terrain.
The design of long-range fuel tanks also considers stability during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Baffles are incorporated to reduce fuel sloshing, resulting in improved vehicle balance and handling. This feature is particularly advantageous for high-speed driving or when navigating challenging road conditions, enhancing the driver's control and reducing the risk of accidents.
Another safety benefit of long-range fuel tanks is the ability to fill up when fuel prices are favourable. This flexibility allows drivers to take advantage of cheaper fuel prices, reducing the overall cost of fuelling and enabling better financial planning for long-distance travel. Additionally, the larger fuel capacity reduces the frequency of refuelling, which can be convenient and safer when travelling through areas with limited or unreliable fuel availability.
While long-range fuel tanks offer safety advantages, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. The installation of larger fuel tanks may require significant modifications to the vehicle, and the tanks themselves can be expensive. In some cases, the increase in fuel capacity may not provide a significant range improvement, especially for casual or short-distance drivers. Therefore, it is essential to carefully assess the benefits in the context of individual needs and driving habits before investing in a long-range fuel tank.
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Long Range Automotive: A Case Study
Long Range Automotive (LRA) is a leading company in the long-range fuel tank industry. Founded in 1989 by brothers Roger and Anthony Beimers, LRA produces over 200 styles of tanks that fit most makes and models of vehicles. The company's products are locally made in Lilydale, Victoria, Australia, and shipped worldwide.
One of LRA's popular products is the 140L Auxiliary Tank for the Toyota Landcruiser 300 Series, which increases the vehicle's total fuel capacity to 250L. This product is ideal for remote travellers who need the extra fuel to get from one place to another. For example, Gary and Amanda from Travel Outback Australia shared their positive experience using the LRA tank in their Landcruiser Prado for their remote travels.
Another LRA customer, Paul Bouma, praised the company's long-range tank for his Toyota Hilux, which gave him a range of over 1400km, perfect for outback touring and taking advantage of cheaper fuel prices. LRA's tanks are also known for their easy-to-follow installation instructions, as mentioned by a customer who installed an LRA tank in their Hilux.
In addition to LRA, other companies in the long-range fuel tank market include ARB, offering their Frontier Long Range Fuel Tank range, and Exit Offroad, providing replacement tanks with increased fuel capacity. These companies cater to various vehicles, including 4x4 models, and offer features such as weight savings, durable polymer structures, and condensation reduction.
Long-range fuel tanks are particularly beneficial for those travelling in remote areas or those who prefer life on the road over traditional homes. While some debate the worth of investing in long-range fuel tanks, citing the need for extra capacity and carrying methods, others appreciate the convenience, safety, and increased range they offer. Ultimately, the decision to invest in long-range fuel tanks depends on individual travel preferences and needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Long-range fuel tanks are high-quality auxiliary or replacement fuel tanks that can increase your vehicle's travelling range.
Long-range fuel tanks are suitable for those who need to travel long distances between refuelling, or those who live in remote areas.
It depends on how you want to travel and where you live. If you don't have a good way to carry fuel safely and need the longer range, then they are absolutely worth it.
Long-range fuel tanks can be made of plastic, steel, or aluminium.
Long-range fuel tanks can be purchased from companies such as Long Range Automotive, ARB, and Exit Offroad.
