Katerina Swanson
Auxiliary fuel tanks are an additional fuel reservoir that can be added to a vehicle to increase its range. They are particularly useful for vehicles with small fuel tanks or those that are used for long-distance travel, such as pickup trucks, RVs, and campers. While auxiliary fuel tanks were more common in the 1960s and 1970s, their demand has decreased due to improved fuel efficiency in modern vehicles and the increasing availability of gas stations. However, some individuals still seek auxiliary fuel tanks to extend their driving range and reduce the frequency of refuelling. This paragraph introduces the topic of auxiliary fuel tanks, their purpose, historical context, and their continuing relevance in today's automotive landscape.
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What You'll Learn
- Gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks are not DOT-approved, unlike diesel tanks
- Auxiliary fuel tanks can be added to increase the fuel capacity of trucks
- Transfer Flow, Inc. is a reputable manufacturer of auxiliary fuel tank systems
- Some auxiliary fuel tanks can be installed under the bed of a truck
- Auxiliary fuel tanks are less in-demand due to better MPG and more gas stations
Gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks are not DOT-approved, unlike diesel tanks
The market for auxiliary fuel tanks has diminished due to various factors, including improved mileage in modern vehicles, urbanisation, and the availability of gas stations even in remote areas. However, some vehicle owners still seek auxiliary fuel tanks to extend their driving range. While there are several options for auxiliary diesel tanks, gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks are harder to come by due to government regulations and safety concerns.
Gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks are not DOT-approved, whereas diesel tanks have received DOT certification. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued special permits for the manufacture and sale of refueling tanks that can store various fuels, including diesel, but the use of gravity-fed auxiliary fuel systems may violate US DOT regulations. Safety concerns are a critical factor, as gasoline is more volatile than diesel.
Gravity-fed fuel systems can negatively impact vehicle performance by keeping the main fuel tank overfull, leading to diagnostic trouble codes and potentially masking legitimate vehicle issues. Additionally, in the event of a damaged transfer fuel hose, gasoline would continue flowing until the transfer tank is empty, creating a hazardous situation and violating the 1990 Clean Air Act.
The possibility of fuel leaks in gravity-fed systems is another concern. Leaking fuel near the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) unit, which reaches high temperatures during regeneration, could result in a fire. To meet emissions requirements, new diesel pickups use active DPFs, which burn fuel injected into the catalyst bed. The auto-ignition temperature of diesel fuel is relatively low, and the proximity to the DPF increases the risk of fire.
While some manufacturers offer custom gasoline fuel cells with DOT certification, the overall lack of options for gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks remains a challenge for drivers seeking to extend their range. The regulatory and safety considerations make it risky for manufacturers to introduce new products to the market.
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Auxiliary fuel tanks can be added to increase the fuel capacity of trucks
Auxiliary fuel tanks can be added to trucks to increase their fuel capacity and extend their driving range. These tanks can be made from aluminium or steel and can be mounted on or inside the truck bed, flatbed, or under the rail toolbox. Some common types of auxiliary fuel tanks include the wedge style, L-shape, and rectangle style.
Wedge-style tanks are designed for full-size Dodge, Ford, and GM diesel trucks and offer a custom look compared to rectangular tanks. They are constructed from ..125-gauge aluminium and are fully baffled. L-shape tanks are also made from .125-gauge aluminium and are designed to fit long-bed diesel trucks with an over-the-rail toolbox. Rectangle-style tanks are the most popular and range from 30 to 65 gallons in capacity.
Transfer Flow, Inc. offers a 40-gallon in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system that is compatible with most diesel trucks, as well as a 50-gallon system that can more than double your driving distance. ATI Tank also builds custom auxiliary fuel tanks and offers a FUEL SAFE tank/toolbox combo that provides added security for your fuel.
It is worth noting that government regulations and emissions requirements may impact the availability of auxiliary fuel tanks for gasoline vehicles, with more options available for diesel. However, some companies do offer gasoline auxiliary fuel tanks that meet government regulations, such as ATI Tank and Transfer Flow, Inc.
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Transfer Flow, Inc. is a reputable manufacturer of auxiliary fuel tank systems
Transfer Flow, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of auxiliary fuel tank systems, offering a range of options to increase fuel capacity and driving range. Their products are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA using American-made aluminized steel, ensuring premier quality and supporting local craftsmanship. Transfer Flow's fuel tank systems are meticulously crafted to meet the fuel needs of various vehicles, from pickup trucks to Ford Transit 350 Vans.
One of their standout products is the 50-gallon in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system, which more than doubles the driving distance for vehicles such as pickup trucks. This system is safe, legal, and reliable, undergoing rigorous durability testing for daily use. Transfer Flow also offers a 40-gallon in-bed auxiliary fuel tank that is compatible with most diesel trucks, providing a universal fit and extended driving range.
For Ford vehicle owners, Transfer Flow provides an extensive 100-gallon L-shaped refueling tank that fits seamlessly under most over-the-rail tool box configurations. This tank is an excellent option for those seeking to maximize their fuel capacity and embark on long-distance journeys without worrying about refueling.
Additionally, Transfer Flow's TRAX 4™ fuel management system stands out as a cutting-edge innovation. This app-based, computer-controlled system allows users to monitor their onboard fuel systems via a smartphone app. With TRAX 4™, drivers can easily manage fuel transfers from the auxiliary fuel tank to the pickup's main fuel tank, ensuring a seamless and efficient fuel management experience.
Transfer Flow's commitment to quality is evident in their comprehensive step-by-step installation instructions, installation videos, and network of authorized installers across the U.S. and Canada. Their fuel tank systems come with all the necessary parts for installation, ensuring a hassle-free experience for their customers. With their range of options, Transfer Flow, Inc. caters to those seeking to enhance their fuel capacity and embark on adventures with peace of mind.
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Some auxiliary fuel tanks can be installed under the bed of a truck
Auxiliary fuel tanks can be installed in the bed of a truck to increase its fuel capacity. These tanks are particularly useful for those who drive long distances, drive in areas with limited access to gas stations, or need to fuel equipment on farms or construction sites.
Some auxiliary fuel tanks can also be installed under the bed of a truck. While this is possible, there are concerns about the safety of DIY installations due to the volatile and combustible nature of fuel. It is recommended that custom installations are carried out by professionals, which can be costly.
There are several factors to consider when installing an auxiliary fuel tank. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the tank will not rust or leak. Moisture can cause rust and fuel contamination, so some users recommend setting the tank on a rubber mat and strapping it to the bed rather than bolting it down. DOT-approved tanks are available and are often made of aluminum.
Another consideration is the plumbing required to make the tank work. Some users have plumbed their auxiliary tanks into the factory fuel filler neck and used an electric fuel pump. It is also possible to hardwire the tank to the truck battery and use a hose with swivels at the pump and nozzle.
In conclusion, while it is possible to install an auxiliary fuel tank under the bed of a truck, there are safety, cost, and technical considerations to take into account.
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Auxiliary fuel tanks are less in-demand due to better MPG and more gas stations
Auxiliary fuel tanks are additional tanks that work in tandem with a vehicle's original fuel tank to increase its fuel capacity. They are usually mounted beneath a vehicle, but can also be placed on top, such as in truck bed transfer tanks.
The demand for auxiliary fuel tanks has decreased due to several factors. Firstly, modern vehicles have improved miles per gallon (MPG) ratings compared to older models, reducing the need to carry extra fuel. For example, vehicles from the 1960s and 1970s often had low MPG, with some only achieving 12 mpg. In contrast, modern vehicles have significantly higher MPG, allowing them to travel further on the same amount of fuel.
Secondly, the increased availability of gas stations has made auxiliary fuel tanks less essential. In the past, long stretches of highways with no gas stations were common, leading to concerns about running out of fuel. However, due to urbanization and development, gas stations are now more readily available, even in remote areas like Death Valley or the Mojave Preserve. The option of 24-hour gas stations and pay-at-the-pump services has further reduced the anxiety associated with finding fuel during long journeys.
Another factor contributing to the decline in demand for auxiliary fuel tanks is the weight difference consideration. While in theory, having less fuel in the tank reduces weight, resulting in better fuel economy, the actual impact is negligible for most vehicles. The weight reduction from a half-empty tank is comparable to the weight of a single passenger or some cargo. Therefore, the benefit of improved fuel efficiency from carrying less fuel is offset by the increased fuel consumption from having to travel to the gas station more frequently.
Furthermore, government regulations and emissions requirements have made it less feasible for manufacturers to produce auxiliary fuel tanks. The expense and liability concerns associated with meeting these regulations have deterred manufacturers from developing auxiliary fuel tank options. As a result, the market for auxiliary fuel tanks has shrunk significantly, with diesel options being more widely available than gasoline variants.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put gasoline in an auxiliary fuel tank. However, due to safety concerns, only external refuelling systems that pump fuel from the auxiliary tank to the original tank are fully DOT legal.
There are several options for auxiliary fuel tanks for gasoline. You can choose between in-bed auxiliary fuel tanks or under-bed auxiliary fuel tanks. Some popular manufacturers include Transfer Flow, Inc., RDS, and DeeZee.
The installation process for an auxiliary fuel tank can vary depending on the specific product and vehicle. Some tanks may require plumbing into the truck's fuel system, while others may use external refuelling systems with hoses and pumps. It is important to consult with professionals or manufacturers for guidance on safe and legal installation methods.
