Katerina Swanson
Auxiliary fuel tanks are a great way to maintain good fuel levels without the effort of constantly refuelling. They are especially useful for those who travel long distances or have to visit various job sites throughout the day. An auxiliary fuel tank can be a lifesaver, preventing you from running out of fuel at the worst possible moment. They can also reduce the number of stops you need to make, allowing you to choose when and where to stop for refuelling. This means you can avoid detours and be more selective about gas stations, potentially saving money.
There are different types of auxiliary fuel tanks available, including gravity-fed systems. So, how does a gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tank work?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To increase the range of a vehicle and reduce the number of stops required to refuel. |
| Functionality | Gravity-fed auxiliary tanks refill the main tank as long as there is fuel in the auxiliary tank. |
| Installation | Installed and connected directly to the stock tank. |
| Variants | Some models have a small 12-volt pump, while others are gravity-fed. |
| Features | Most types have a shut-off valve to control the flow of fuel to the main tank. |
| Fuel Type | Typically used for diesel fuel, not suitable for gasoline due to legal restrictions. |
| Capacity | Available in various capacities, ranging from 20 gallons to over 100 gallons. |
| Benefits | Allows for longer distances between refuels, flexibility in choosing gas stations, and potential cost savings. |
| Legal Considerations | Must comply with regulations regarding valves, venting, and overflow. Fuel withdrawal fittings must be located above the normal fuel level when the tank is full. |
| Maintenance | The use of fuel additives and inline fuel filters is recommended to maintain fuel quality and prevent issues such as algae growth. |
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What You'll Learn
- Gravity feed systems are legal, but not for gasoline
- The auxiliary tank should not be filled to the top
- The main tank should be at least 1/4 full before opening the valve
- The gravity feed system must have shut-off, vent, and overflow valves
- The gravity feed system can be used for motorcycles, boats, and ATVs
Gravity feed systems are legal, but not for gasoline
The legality of gravity feed systems for gasoline remains unclear due to DOT ambiguity. Some believe that safety and legality issues may arise with gravity feed auxiliary fuel systems, potentially violating US DOT regulations. Additionally, gravity feed systems can adversely affect federally mandated on-board vehicle diagnostic systems, resulting in diagnostic trouble codes.
It is important to note that gravity feed systems are commonly used with diesel fuel. Many users have shared their experiences with installing gravity feed auxiliary fuel tanks in their vehicles, primarily trucks. These tanks provide extended mileage without the need to refuel and allow for strategic fuel purchases. However, some users have encountered issues with fuel transfer rates, valves, and engine codes due to the system's design.
To ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, it is crucial to review and adhere to all relevant DOT and Federal Safety requirements when installing an auxiliary fuel tank. This includes considerations such as fuel line placement and the inclusion of valves to prevent overfilling and potential leaks.
In summary, while gravity feed systems are legal, their use is restricted for gasoline due to safety and regulatory concerns. These systems are more commonly utilized with diesel fuel, offering extended mileage and strategic fueling advantages. Proper installation and adherence to regulations are essential to ensure safe and legal usage.
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The auxiliary tank should not be filled to the top
Auxiliary fuel tanks are an excellent way to increase fuel capacity for long hauls. They are generally simple to install and use gravity to feed fuel into the main tank as the engine consumes fuel.
However, it is important to note that the auxiliary tank should not be filled to the top. This is because diesel fuel expands as it gets hotter, and filling the tank to the brim can lead to messy spills and overflow. This is especially important during the hot summer months when temperatures are higher. By leaving some headroom in the tank, you can prevent this issue and avoid a big mess in your driveway or under your truck.
Additionally, some users have reported that keeping the auxiliary tank full while parked can cause issues with the engine's fuel gauge. The computer may get confused when the gauge doesn't move for extended periods, leading to nuisance error codes. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to leave the auxiliary tank valve closed until the main tank reaches around half or three-quarters full before opening the valve to allow fuel flow.
Furthermore, ensuring the tank is not completely full provides a safety margin. This margin can be crucial in preventing overfilling, especially when using an electric pump, which can be forgotten and left on accidentally. By leaving some space, you reduce the risk of overfilling and potential fuel wastage.
In conclusion, while auxiliary fuel tanks offer significant benefits, it is important to exercise caution and avoid filling them to the top. By leaving some headroom, you can prevent spills, avoid potential errors, and maintain a safer and more efficient fuel system for your vehicle.
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The main tank should be at least 1/4 full before opening the valve
The gravity feed auxiliary fuel tank is a valuable addition to any vehicle, particularly those that travel long distances or are used for towing. The system is simple: the auxiliary tank is mounted above the main tank, and the fuel is fed via gravity from the auxiliary tank into the main tank. This setup can increase the distance travelled between refuelling by hundreds of miles.
The auxiliary tank has a valve that controls the flow of fuel. This valve should be kept closed until the main tank is at least 1/4 full. This is because, if the valve is opened too soon, the fuel can flow faster than the vehicle's engine can use it, leading to potential overflow and leaks. By waiting until the main tank is at least 1/4 full, the risk of overflow is reduced, and the vehicle can take advantage of the additional fuel capacity without issues.
Some users have reported that leaving the valve open while parked can cause small leaks, so it is advisable to close the valve when not in use. Additionally, it is important to note that these auxiliary tanks should not be filled completely, especially in hot weather, as diesel fuel expands and can cause leaks and mess.
The gravity feed auxiliary fuel tank system is a popular choice for many vehicle owners, and with careful use and attention to potential leaks, it can provide a significant increase in fuel capacity and flexibility for long-distance travel.
Overall, the auxiliary fuel tank, when used correctly, can be a safe and effective way to extend the range of a vehicle, allowing for more convenient and cost-effective refuelling options.
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The gravity feed system must have shut-off, vent, and overflow valves
A gravity feed auxiliary fuel tank is a great way to extend the range of a vehicle and reduce the number of stops required to refuel. These tanks can be used to maintain good fuel levels without much effort. They are particularly useful for long hauls and trips, allowing drivers to avoid refuelling at remote gas stations with higher prices.
Gravity feed systems are DOT legal, but not for gasoline. They are prohibited from feeding fuel directly to the engine. However, they can be used to transfer fuel from one tank to another. This transfer must include appropriate valves, such as shut-off, vent, and overflow valves.
The gravity feed system's shut-off valve allows the user to stop the auxiliary tank from feeding the main tank when needed. For example, if a leak is suspected, the shut-off valve can be closed to prevent further leakage. Some users choose to keep the valve closed until the main tank is half full, or down to about a quarter or three-quarters full, to avoid issues with the check engine light coming on.
The vent in a gravity feed system includes a check valve to prevent fuel from escaping in the event of a rollover. This check valve is an important safety feature that helps to prevent fuel spills in the event of an accident.
The overflow valve in a gravity feed system prevents the main tank from overflowing when being filled by the auxiliary tank. This valve ensures that the fuel transfer shuts off if the fuel is transferring too quickly, preventing overfilling and potential fuel spills.
In summary, the inclusion of shut-off, vent, and overflow valves in a gravity feed auxiliary fuel tank system is essential for both the proper functioning of the system and for safety. These valves allow users to control the fuel transfer, prevent fuel spills, and keep the vehicle and its occupants safe in the event of an accident.
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The gravity feed system can be used for motorcycles, boats, and ATVs
For motorcycles, Harley-Davidson models, in particular, are known to use gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tanks. While there is limited information on the specifics of these gravity-fed systems for motorcycles, the underlying principle of using gravity to transfer fuel remains the same.
For boats, the setup is slightly different. One option is to mount the fuel tank in the rigging of the boat, which can provide a gravity feed to the motor. This setup is popular due to its simplicity, but it's important to consider the weight distribution and ensure that the tank is securely mounted. Another option is to place the gas tank at the bottom of the boat and use an electric pump to feed fuel to the engine. This method may be more suitable for smaller boats where weight distribution is a concern.
For ATVs, gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tanks are commonly used to extend the range of the vehicle. These tanks are often installed in addition to the factory-fitted fuel tank and can provide a significant increase in fuel capacity. For example, a 45-gallon auxiliary fuel tank can be added to a Ford F-250 truck, allowing for longer trips without the need to refuel.
It is important to note that gravity feed systems for ATVs may have different operating procedures depending on the vehicle's motion. Some systems may only transfer fuel when the vehicle is parked, while others may function while the vehicle is in motion. Additionally, the use of check valves is crucial to prevent fuel overflow and potential leakage. These valves regulate the fuel transfer rate and ensure that the factory tank does not overflow.
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Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary fuel tank can be a great way to maintain good fuel levels without any effort. It can help you avoid running out of fuel at the worst times and reduce the number of stops you have to make. It also lets you choose when and where to stop to refuel and can save you from fuel price gouges.
Gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tanks are installed and connected directly to your stock tank. They keep refilling your main tank as long as there is fuel in the auxiliary tank. You won't notice any reduction in your main tank until the auxiliary is empty. Some models have a small 12-volt pump while others rely solely on gravity to feed fuel into the main tank.
It is important to ensure that your auxiliary tank has the necessary valves, such as shut-off, vent, and overflow valves. This helps prevent issues like leaks and spills. Additionally, it is recommended to not fill the auxiliary tank completely, especially during hot summer months, as diesel expands with heat and can cause messes.
Gravity-fed fuel systems are generally legal, but there are specific regulations that must be followed. For example, fuel withdrawal fittings must be located above the normal level of fuel when the tank is full. Additionally, auxiliary fuel tanks must meet certain marking requirements, stating the manufacturer's name, manufacture date, gallon size, and compliance with FMCSA requirements.
