Sylvie Willis
Owners of Chevy and GMC Duramax vehicles have expressed interest in installing larger fuel tanks to extend their vehicles' range and reduce the frequency of fuel stops. This is especially relevant for those who take remote trips or drive in areas with limited fuel options. Larger fuel tanks, such as the Titan Tank, offer increased capacity, allowing drivers to fill up where fuel prices are more favourable. While some owners have successfully installed larger fuel tanks, others have encountered challenges, including inaccurate fuel gauge readings and concerns about warranty issues. It is important to carefully consider the benefits and potential drawbacks before deciding to install a larger fuel tank in a Duramax vehicle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Larger fuel tank options for Duramax | Titan Tanks (43-gallon capacity), S&B (62-gallon capacity), Transfer Flow (67-gallon capacity) |
| Fuel tank installation | Can be installed without cutting, drilling, or special modifications |
| Fuel tank cost | $700 (Titan Tanks), $2,600 (Transfer Flow, before installation) |
| Fuel range | 700-800 miles without stopping to refuel |
| Warranty issues | Unlikely to cause issues due to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, but potential for disputes if fuel-related issues arise |
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What You'll Learn
The benefits of a bigger fuel tank
A bigger fuel tank can be beneficial in several ways. Firstly, it extends the range of your vehicle, allowing you to travel longer distances without needing to refuel. This is especially advantageous for those who frequently embark on remote trips or live in areas with limited access to fuel stations. With a larger fuel tank, you gain the convenience of fewer refuelling stops and the freedom to choose where you fill up, potentially saving money by taking advantage of cheaper fuel prices outside of interstate plazas or in different states.
Additionally, a bigger fuel tank can be a valuable investment for those who own vehicles with smaller stock tanks. For example, some users have expressed their desire for larger tanks in their Chevy Duramax vehicles, which typically come with 24 to 26-gallon tanks. Upgrading to a 43-gallon Titan tank or even a 62-gallon replacement tank can significantly increase fuel capacity, reducing the need to refuel frequently.
However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. Installing a larger fuel tank can be expensive, and the weight of the larger tank and additional fuel may impact fuel economy. There may also be concerns about voiding warranties or encountering legal battles with manufacturers over potential "fuel-related" issues. Nevertheless, for those who prioritise range and the convenience of fewer refuelling stops, a bigger fuel tank can be a worthwhile modification.
For some, the benefits of a bigger fuel tank go beyond cost savings and convenience. In regions with sparse fuel stations or for those embarking on off-road adventures, a larger fuel capacity can provide peace of mind and a sense of security. Knowing that you have the fuel to reach your destination or get yourself out of a tricky situation can make all the difference.
Ultimately, the decision to opt for a bigger fuel tank depends on individual needs and driving habits. While it may not be necessary for those who drive shorter distances or have easy access to fuel stations, it can be a valuable upgrade for those seeking greater range, convenience, and control over their refuelling options.
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Installation processes
Several options are available for those seeking to install a larger fuel tank on their Duramax vehicle. The Titan Fuel Tank is a popular choice for many Duramax owners, with models available for 2020-2024 GM 2500 and 3500 Crew Cab, Long Bed Duramax vehicles with diesel engines. This 60-gallon tank is made of military-grade, cross-linked polymer and is designed to be a direct replacement for the stock tank, utilising the truck's original fuel sending unit. The installation process is made easier by the TITAN Torque Ring™ OEM-style sending unit mounting system.
Another option is the S&B 62-gallon fuel tank, which fits 2011-2023 GM Duramax 6.6L Crew Cab Short Bed vehicles. This tank also replaces the OEM tank without requiring any cutting, drilling, or special modifications, making for a faster installation. The S&B tank features a built-in baffled design to minimise fuel sloshing and an integrated drain plug that can be drilled out and resealed if needed.
It is important to note that installing a larger fuel tank may cause fuel gauge issues, as the computer may run a system check and drop the fuel gauge to empty if the float moves slower than expected. This issue has been reported by some Duramax owners who installed the Titan tank.
When installing a larger fuel tank, it is also essential to consider the potential impact on the vehicle's warranty. While the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers' right to use aftermarket parts, it is important to ensure that any modifications meet OE specifications to avoid potential issues with the manufacturer's warranty.
Additionally, cost considerations should be made when opting for a larger fuel tank. While a larger tank can provide savings by allowing you to buy fuel at cheaper locations, it may take a significant number of refills to break even on the cost of the tank itself.
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Cost
The cost of installing a bigger fuel tank on a Duramax varies depending on the size of the tank and the brand. For example, a 52-gallon Titan tank costs around $700, while a 67-gallon OEM replacement tank costs about $2,600 before installation. Another option is the S&B 62-gallon fuel tank, which is priced at $1,199.
Some users have expressed that the cost of a larger fuel tank is worth it for the convenience of not having to fill up as often and being able to choose where to fill up. For example, with a small tank, you may have to buy fuel from a station with old and dirty fuel, which can damage the injection system and be costly to repair.
On the other hand, some have noted that the cost of a larger fuel tank may not be worth it, as it would take a significant number of refills to break even on the cost of the tank. For example, with the Titan tank, which offers 9 usable gallons over the stock tank, it would take around 60 refills to break even on the cost of the tank.
Therefore, it is important to consider your own fuel usage and whether the convenience of a larger fuel tank justifies the cost.
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Warranty issues
When it comes to warranty issues, opinions vary. Some people believe that installing an aftermarket larger fuel tank will not cause any warranty issues with the truck's manufacturer. This is based on the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which protects consumers' rights to use aftermarket parts when doing repairs as long as they meet OE specs. However, it's important to note that this Act may not cover modifications to the factory design, such as larger fuel tanks.
On the other hand, some people have expressed concerns that installing a larger fuel tank could void the warranty on the truck or the tank itself. This is especially true if there are any fuel-related issues that can be traced back to the tank or if the use of a gravity feed tank or electronically controlled transfer tank is connected to the larger fuel tank. In the case of S&B Tanks, for example, the company specifically states that using a gravity feed or electronically controlled transfer tank with their product will void the warranty.
It's worth noting that some companies, like Titan Tanks, advertise that their larger fuel tanks for Duramax trucks do not cause any warranty issues. They claim that their tanks are made of the same material as the factory tank, so the dealer is none the wiser. Additionally, some users have reported that their dealers were able to adjust the fuel in tank settings to match the larger capacity, ensuring that the fuel range reading remains accurate.
However, other users have experienced issues with their fuel gauges after installing larger fuel tanks. In some cases, the fuel gauge may drop to empty after initial install or during normal operation due to the slower movement of the float, which the computer interprets as an issue. While restarting the vehicle may resolve this problem, it is not always a permanent fix.
Ultimately, it is important for consumers to carefully review the terms and conditions of their truck's warranty and any aftermarket parts they are considering. While larger fuel tanks may provide benefits in terms of fuel capacity and convenience, it is crucial to understand the potential implications for the warranty coverage of the vehicle and any affected components.
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Fuel tank capacity comparisons
Fuel tank capacity is an important consideration for vehicle owners, especially those who undertake long-distance travel or operate in remote areas. Upgrading to a larger fuel tank can provide several benefits, including increased range and reduced refuelling frequency. This is particularly advantageous for those who wish to avoid refuelling in certain states due to high fuel prices or prefer to fill up at their convenience.
The standard fuel tank capacity for the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 with the 3.0 Duramax engine is 24 gallons, while the 2500HD/3500HD models with the 6.6L Duramax engine offer a larger 36-gallon tank. For those seeking even greater capacity, aftermarket options are available, such as the Titan Tank, which offers a 43-gallon capacity. However, it's important to note that some owners have expressed confusion over the Titan Tank's usability, as it may result in carrying extra fuel that cannot be utilized efficiently.
Another popular option is the S&B 62-gallon fuel tank, designed for the 2011-2023 GM Duramax 6.6L Crew Cab Short Bed. This replacement tank offers a significant increase in capacity, allowing drivers to go further and reduce the need for frequent refuelling. The installation process is straightforward, requiring no cutting, drilling, or special modifications. Additionally, the S&B tank features a built-in baffled design to minimize fuel sloshing and unwanted noise.
For those with unique requirements, such as a slide-in camper, specific tank configurations may be preferred. One user mentions having a 67-gallon OEM replacement tank and a 37-gallon Transfer Flow tank in the bed, providing a combined capacity of over 100 gallons. However, such setups can be costly, with the Transfer Flow tank alone costing around $2,600 before installation.
When considering aftermarket fuel tank options, it's important to be aware of potential warranty implications. While the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers' rights to use aftermarket parts, it's crucial to ensure that any modifications meet OE specifications to avoid potential issues with the manufacturer. Additionally, fuel-related problems could lead to disputes, and resolving them may require legal action.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can get a bigger fuel tank for your Duramax. There are a few options available, including the Titan tank, the Transfer Flow tank, and the S&B tank.
The Titan tank comes in 43- and 52-gallon capacities, the Transfer Flow tank comes in 67-gallon capacity, and the S&B tank comes in 62-gallon capacity.
The cost of a bigger fuel tank for a Duramax can vary depending on the brand and capacity. The Titan tank costs around $700, while the Transfer Flow tank costs around $2,600 before installation.
Some people have reported issues with reprogramming the DIC for a larger fuel tank, which can lead to inaccurate fuel gauge readings. It is recommended to get a professional to install and reprogram the DIC to avoid any issues.
You can buy bigger fuel tanks for your Duramax from various online retailers, such as XDP and AIH (Alaska Industrial Hardware). You can also find them at local automotive shops or dealerships.
