Rajan Wilcox
There are several ways to carry extra diesel fuel, including jerrycans, auxiliary tanks, and long-range fuel tanks. Jerrycans, which were designed by the Germans during World War II, are typically made of steel or polyethylene (plastic) and have a capacity of around 20 litres. They should be stored outside the vehicle cabin to prevent fuel fumes from affecting occupants. Auxiliary tanks, such as those made by Boab and Poly RV accessories, can be secured in a ute tray and emptied into the main tank when needed. Long-range fuel tanks, made from steel or aluminium, can be fitted as auxiliary or replacement tanks and offer a safer and more convenient option for carrying extra fuel. When carrying extra diesel fuel, it is important to consider the added weight and ensure it does not exceed the maximum legal weight of the vehicle. Additionally, fuel containers should be regularly checked for damage and leaks, especially when travelling in remote areas.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container | Jerrycans, auxiliary tanks, long-range fuel tanks, poly fuel tanks |
| Container material | Steel, polyethylene (plastic), aluminium, stainless steel |
| Container capacity | 20L, 40L-58L, 55-60L, 75L, 85L |
| Container placement | Outside the vehicle, away from ignition sources and electrical items |
| Fuel transfer | Siphon hose, jiggler, pump |
| Safety considerations | Fumes, weight restrictions (GVM), fuel contamination, fuel leaks |
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What You'll Learn
- Jerrycans: Use metal or plastic containers with a capacity of 20L
- Poly fuel tanks: Boab manufactures tanks with capacities ranging from 40L-58L
- Auxiliary tanks: Install a separate tank that can be emptied into the main tank
- Long-range fuel tanks: Opt for a larger capacity tank as an alternative to carrying jerrycans
- Fuel transfer: Use a siphon hose, jiggler, or pump to transfer fuel from a separate tank to the main tank
Jerrycans: Use metal or plastic containers with a capacity of 20L
Jerrycans are a widely recognised way to transport fuel. They were first designed by the Germans during World War II and have been largely unchanged since. Jerrycans are available in both metal and plastic, with a capacity of 20L.
Metal jerrycans are the benchmark for reliable liquid storage. They are available in a variety of sizes, including 5, 10, and 20 litres. Metal jerrycans are also rustproof and offer anti-blast protection. They are often used by the military and are suitable for NATO missions.
Plastic jerrycans, on the other hand, are made from polyethylene, which is a strong and durable material. They are also available in various sizes and colours. Plastic jerrycans are generally more affordable than metal ones.
When choosing between metal and plastic jerrycans, it is important to consider the quality of the container. Well-made jerrycans, regardless of material, can safely store diesel fuel. However, it is worth noting that jerrycans need to be handled with care as they can be prone to damage, which could result in fuel leaks.
Additionally, it is recommended to store jerrycans in a clean, dry, and cool environment to maximise the shelf life of the diesel fuel. Fuel transfer from jerrycans can also be messy and dangerous, so it may be worth considering alternative fuel storage options if you are concerned about these potential issues.
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Poly fuel tanks: Boab manufactures tanks with capacities ranging from 40L-58L
Carrying extra diesel fuel is often necessary when four-wheel driving due to the vastness and sparseness of the terrain. There are several ways to do this, including using a jerrycan or equipping your vehicle with a long-range fuel tank.
A popular alternative to these methods is Boab's poly fuel tanks, which are available in capacities ranging from 40L to 58L. These tanks are designed to fit into various spots in a vehicle, offering a convenient and safe solution for carrying extra diesel fuel. They can be easily mounted internally behind seats, in luggage areas, across footwells, or even externally on roof racks, in utes, vehicles, and trailers.
The Boab poly fuel tanks are simple to fit and remove, and they come in different shapes to accommodate various vehicle designs. For example, there is a footwell tank designed to fit in the rear footwell, a vertical tank with wheel-arch cutouts for the tub of utes, and vertical or flat-mount tanks for the cargo area of wagons. These tanks can also be fitted with optional fuel lines and taps for safe and mess-free fuel transfer, reducing the risk of fuel contamination.
The durability of the Boab poly fuel tanks is another advantage. They are built tough and designed to last a lifetime, ensuring safe diesel storage. Additionally, with capacities of up to 58L, these tanks provide a significant increase in fuel capacity, giving you peace of mind when travelling in remote areas where refuelling options may be limited.
It is important to regularly check all fuel tanks for damage and leaks, especially when relying on your fuel capacity to get you through remote regions. By choosing a Boab poly fuel tank, you benefit from a convenient, flexible, and durable solution for carrying extra diesel fuel on your journeys.
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Auxiliary tanks: Install a separate tank that can be emptied into the main tank
If you're looking to carry extra diesel fuel, one option is to install an auxiliary tank that can be emptied into the main tank. This is a more convenient and safer method compared to using jerrycans, which can be messy and prone to damage. Auxiliary tanks are secondary tanks that tap into your vehicle's regular fuel line or filler tube, providing additional fuel capacity.
There are a few things to consider when opting for an auxiliary tank. Firstly, you'll need to choose the right type of tank for your vehicle. Auxiliary tanks come in different materials, such as steel, aluminium, or poly. Steel tanks have traditionally been used for long-range fuel tanks, while aluminium tanks are lightweight and resistant to rust. Poly tanks, made from polyethylene, are also an option and offer a variety of shapes and capacities to fit different vehicles.
When installing an auxiliary tank, you may need to consider modifications to your fuel system. Some auxiliary tanks use gravity to feed fuel into the main tank, while others may require a separate fuel pump or a switch on the dashboard to transfer fuel. It's important to be aware of any state or local laws that apply to gravity-fed auxiliary fuel tanks before making any modifications.
One advantage of auxiliary tanks is that they can often be integrated seamlessly into your vehicle's fuel system. For example, some tanks come with autofill features that prevent overfilling and can be controlled with a simple gate valve. Additionally, with the correct sender unit, you may be able to use your factory fuel gauge to monitor the fuel level in the auxiliary tank.
When choosing an auxiliary tank, it's important to consider factors such as capacity, ease of installation, and compatibility with your vehicle. Auxiliary tanks can range in capacity from 40 to 110 gallons, so select one that suits your needs and the available space in your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle's manual or seek professional advice if you're unsure about the installation process or the suitability of a particular auxiliary tank.
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Long-range fuel tanks: Opt for a larger capacity tank as an alternative to carrying jerrycans
If you're looking to carry extra diesel fuel, a long-range fuel tank is a great alternative to jerrycans. Long-range fuel tanks offer several advantages over traditional jerrycans, providing a safer and more convenient option for your vehicle.
Firstly, long-range fuel tanks are designed to fit your specific vehicle model, ensuring a perfect installation. Companies like Long Range Automotive (LRA) offer a wide range of fuel tanks suitable for most makes and models. They produce over 200 styles of tanks, including auxiliary and replacement fuel tanks, ensuring there's an option for everyone.
Opting for a long-range fuel tank eliminates the hassles associated with jerrycans, such as messy and dangerous fuel transfer. With a dedicated tank, you won't have to worry about fuel contamination, especially in challenging environments. Additionally, you won't need to manually handle fuel, reducing the risk of damage from drops and knocks, which could lead to unnoticed fuel leaks.
Long-range fuel tanks also provide increased capacity, giving you a greater range. For example, LRA offers a 140L long-range fuel tank that can provide a range of over 1400km, which is perfect for outback touring. This extended range means you can take on remote adventures with the peace of mind that you have the fuel to get from point A to point B.
When choosing a long-range fuel tank, you have the option of either auxiliary or replacement tanks. Auxiliary tanks are installed in addition to your vehicle's standard tank, giving you a total fuel capacity that accommodates long journeys. Replacement tanks, on the other hand, are installed instead of the vehicle's standard tank, offering a larger capacity in the same space.
By opting for a long-range fuel tank, you can benefit from a seamless and safe solution for carrying extra diesel fuel. You'll enjoy the convenience of a dedicated tank, the peace of mind of reduced fuel transfer risks, and the freedom to explore remote locations with confidence.
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Fuel transfer: Use a siphon hose, jiggler, or pump to transfer fuel from a separate tank to the main tank
If you want to transfer fuel from a separate tank to your main tank, there are a few methods you can use. One way is to use a siphon hose, also known as a jiggler hose or jiggler valve hose. Place one end of the hose into the fuel tank and the other end into the container you want to transfer fuel to. Shake the hose's one-way valve pump until the fuel starts flowing, then put the pump end into the container.
Some vehicles have anti-siphon measures in place to prevent fuel theft, so you may need to consult your service manual to see if this method will work for your vehicle. Additionally, be cautious when using this method to avoid burning out your car's fuel pump.
Another option for fuel transfer is to use a transfer pump and a momentary switch. This method is often used for auxiliary fuel tanks installed in vehicles. By using a transfer pump, you can control the flow of fuel from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. Ensure that you have a proper setup for the transfer pump, including appropriate plumbing and valving, to maintain fuel equilibrium between the tanks.
It is worth noting that some people opt for gravity feed systems, where an auxiliary tank is positioned higher than the main tank, allowing fuel to flow directly into the filler of the main tank. This system does not require a pump, as gravity facilitates the fuel transfer. However, it is important to consider potential overflow issues, especially when parking on a side slope.
Regardless of the method chosen, always exercise caution when handling fuel and refer to your vehicle's manual or seek professional advice if you are unsure about the fuel transfer process.
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Frequently asked questions
You can carry extra diesel fuel in a jerrycan, auxiliary tank, or long-range fuel tank. Jerrycans are common containers for extra fuel, but they need to be handled with care as they are prone to damage. Auxiliary tanks can be secured in a ute tray and emptied into the main tank when needed. Long-range fuel tanks are a more convenient and safer option, but they require installation.
When using a jerrycan, make sure it is made from a suitable material such as steel or polyethylene (plastic) and complies with the relevant standards. Do not store the jerrycan inside your vehicle to avoid inhaling fuel vapours, which can cause nausea, drowsiness, and headaches. Secure the jerrycan safely outside of your vehicle, away from potential ignition sources.
Auxiliary tanks and long-range fuel tanks offer a more convenient and safer way to carry extra diesel fuel. They are less prone to damage and fuel transfer issues compared to jerrycans. Additionally, they can be installed in various spots in a vehicle, such as the rear footwell or cargo area.
Remember that extra fuel adds weight to your vehicle, so ensure you stay under the GVM (gross vehicle mass), which is the maximum legal weight of your vehicle when fully loaded and fuelled. Also, always have a means to transfer the extra fuel to your main tank, such as a siphon hose or pump.
