Ameer Randolph
Installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your pickup truck can be a great way to extend your driving range and provide peace of mind during long journeys. While it may seem like a daunting task, with proper planning and execution, it is certainly achievable. The process typically involves lifting the truck, marking the mounting locations, drilling holes, installing the tank, and connecting the fuel lines. It is important to prioritize safety and ensure that the installation is done correctly to avoid any potential damage to the vehicle or fuel system.
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What You'll Learn
Lifting the truck and placing the tank
Once the truck is securely lifted, you can proceed with placing the auxiliary diesel fuel tank in the bed of your truck. This step is much easier with an extra set of hands, as it will lighten the load and help prevent any scrapes or scratches to your truck's finish. Place the tank in the desired location, ensuring that it is away from the sides, front, and back of the bed. It is important to leave some space on all four sides of the tank to prevent it from rubbing against the truck bed, which could potentially damage the tank.
Before drilling any holes, carefully mark the mounting locations and remove the auxiliary tank from the bed. This will allow you to centre punch the locations to prevent the drill bit from straying. Start by drilling small pilot holes, then use a larger bit to drill the final holes that match the size of the bolts you plan to use. Always check the undercarriage of the truck bed to avoid drilling into any important components, such as your existing fuel tank.
After drilling the holes, you can bolt your new auxiliary tank into place. At this stage, you should also plan how you will run the 3/8" rubber fuel supply line from the new tank to your existing factory fuel tank. This line can be threaded through another hole drilled into the truck's bed or, in some cases, accessed through the rubber plugs near the bottom of the stake pocket support posts in the corners of the truck bed.
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Drilling holes and attaching bolts
Once you have decided on the placement of your auxiliary diesel fuel tank, you can begin the process of drilling holes and attaching bolts.
Firstly, remove the tank from the pickup bed. You should then centre punch the locations of the holes to prevent the drill bit from straying. Start by drilling holes with a small bit to act as a "pilot hole" for the larger bit. Your final hole should be drilled with a bit that matches the bolts you have chosen. Before drilling, check the undercarriage of the truck bed to ensure there are no other items under the hole locations that could be damaged.
After drilling the holes, determine how and where you will run the rubber fuel supply line from the tank to your existing factory fuel tank. Once you are satisfied with this, bolt your new tank into place, using the bolts, nuts, and washers you have purchased. Having an extra pair of hands at this stage will be useful, as they can hold the nuts or bolts in place as you tighten them from either the bottom or top of the auxiliary truck bed fuel tank.
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Running the fuel supply line
Once you've marked the mounting locations and removed the auxiliary diesel fuel tank from the pickup bed, you can start planning the fuel supply line. This is where you'll need to run the 3/8" rubber fuel supply line from the tank to your existing factory fuel tank.
Most tank owners simply drill another hole into the truck bed and thread the line down to the factory tank filler neck. Be sure to centre punch the locations of the holes to prevent the drill bit from straying. First, drill the holes with a small bit to act as a "pilot hole" for the larger bit. Your final hole should be drilled with a bit that matches the bolts you've chosen to use. Before drilling, check the undercarriage of the truck bed to make sure there are no other items under the hole locations that you might hit, such as your existing fuel tank or another important component.
On some trucks, you can gain access to the bottom side of the truck bed by removing the rubber plugs near the bottom of the stake pocket support posts in the corners of the truck bed. If these are available, you can remove the rubber plug, punch or cut a hole in the centre of the rubber plug, insert the rubber fuel line, and then put the plug back in place. Run the line down towards the factory fuel neck.
Now, place your auxiliary fuel tank in position and use bolts, nuts, and washers to fasten it in place. This is when an extra set of hands will be helpful to hold the nuts or bolts in place as you tighten them from the bottom or top of the auxiliary truck bed fuel tank.
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Preventing contamination
Installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your pickup truck can provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have extra fuel for emergency situations and extended trips. However, it is important to take steps to prevent fuel contamination, which can cause equipment damage, increased maintenance costs, and compromised product quality.
When installing an auxiliary fuel tank, it is important to take precautions to avoid contamination. Before drilling holes in the truck bed for mounting the tank, check the undercarriage thoroughly to ensure there are no items underneath that could be damaged, such as the existing fuel tank or other important components.
Routine Maintenance and Monitoring
Regular monitoring and maintenance of your auxiliary fuel tank are crucial to preventing contamination. Schedule periodic tank inspections and cleanings by trained professionals to remove sludge, sediment, and other debris that can promote bacterial growth. Regularly discharge water from the bottom of the tank, as excess moisture can create an ideal environment for bacteria. Insulating the tank can help maintain stable temperatures and reduce condensation, which can introduce moisture into the fuel.
Use High-Quality Fuel and Additives
Using high-quality fuel and additives can help prevent contamination and protect your engine. Additives such as fuel stabilizers during long storage and diesel fuel biocides can help inhibit bacterial growth and maintain fuel integrity.
Proper Storage Practices
Keep the fuel tank sealed when not in use to prevent contamination from external sources. Additionally, ensure that the tank is stored in a secure location to prevent fuel theft or siphoning, which can introduce contaminants.
Regularly Check for Leaks and Corrosion
Fuel leaks and corrosion can lead to contamination and other issues. Regularly inspect the tank for signs of corrosion, such as rust in the fuel filter, fuel leaks, unusual smells, and poor engine performance. Use rust inhibitors and protective coatings to prevent corrosion, especially in metal tanks. If you notice any fuel leaks, locate and fix the damage, replace parts, or tighten connections as needed.
By following these preventative measures, you can help maintain the integrity of your auxiliary fuel and avoid the costly and time-consuming issues associated with fuel contamination.
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Cushion strips and isolation mounts
Installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your pickup truck can be a great way to extend your driving range and provide peace of mind during emergencies. One crucial aspect of this installation process is ensuring that the tank is securely mounted and isolated from vibration and noise. This is where cushion strips and isolation mounts come into play.
Cushion strips, also known as anti-squeak strap liners or isolators, are made of rubber or neoprene and are placed between the auxiliary fuel tank and the mounting straps. These strips help to eliminate rattles, vibrations, and noise caused by the fuel tank's contact with the mounting straps. They come in various sizes and thicknesses to accommodate different fuel tank configurations. For example, you can find cushion strips that are 1/4" thick, 2" wide, and 10 feet long, or thinner strips that are 1/8" thick and 1" wide.
Isolation mounts, on the other hand, are used to separate the fuel tank from the truck's body or floor. These mounts are typically made of high-quality dense rubber, such as EPDM rubber, which is known for its durability and resistance to moisture, ozone, and UV exposure. Isolation mounts help to reduce the transmission of vibrations and noise from the fuel tank to the truck's body, ensuring a quieter ride.
When installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your pickup, it's important to consider the placement of the tank and the type of mounting system you will use. As mentioned earlier, you should leave some space around the tank to prevent it from rubbing against the truck bed. Additionally, you might want to consider using a combination of cushion strips and isolation mounts to achieve the best noise and vibration reduction.
Before drilling holes for the mounting hardware, it's crucial to carefully measure and mark the locations to ensure a precise fit. It's also recommended to use a centre punch to create a pilot hole and prevent the drill bit from wandering. By taking the time to plan and execute the installation carefully, you can ensure that your auxiliary fuel tank is securely mounted and isolated from unwanted noise and vibrations.
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Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary fuel tank can give you peace of mind on long trips or in remote areas, as it extends your driving range.
This depends on how much extra driving distance you want. Auxiliary fuel tanks are available in sizes ranging from 40 to 75 gallons.
Make sure you have a high enough rated jack to safely lift the vehicle. Also, do not get under the vehicle when it is only supported by the jack. All vehicles must be supported by appropriately sized jack stands placed on flat portions of the vehicle's frame.
First, decide on the placement of the auxiliary fuel tank. You want to install the tank away from the sides, front, and back of the bed so that there is some space on all four sides of the tank to prevent it from rubbing against the truck bed.
Remove the auxiliary fuel tank from the pickup bed and use a centre punch to prevent the drill bit from straying from the desired location. Drill holes with a small bit first, then with a larger bit that matches the bolts you've chosen. Check the undercarriage of the truck bed to ensure there are no items in the way before you drill.
