Auxiliary Fuel Tank Installation Guide For Toyota Pickups

how to install auxiliary fuel tank toyota pickulp

Installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your Toyota pickup can provide peace of mind for extended trips by ensuring you always have enough fuel. There are a few steps to follow to ensure the installation is done properly and safely. First, you'll want to place the auxiliary tank in the location where it will be installed, making sure it's away from the sides, front, or back of the bed. Next, you'll need to visibly mark the holes where you'll attach the tank to the bed of the pickup using a brightly colored marking tool. With the markings in place, you can then drill the holes and attach the tank. It's recommended to have an extra set of hands when lifting the tank into place.

Characteristics Values
Installation Process First, decide on the placement of the auxiliary fuel tank. Then, mark the holes where the tank will be attached to the bed of the pickup. Remove the tank and drill the holes. Finally, place the tank and attach it through the drilled holes.
Weight Not very heavy, but an extra set of hands is helpful when placing the tank.
Compatibility Available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 37 to 100 gallons. The 40-gallon tank is designed to be compatible with most diesel trucks.
Benefits Increase the fuel capacity and driving range of your Toyota pickup truck.

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Planning the installation

Determine the Type of Auxiliary Fuel Tank

Firstly, decide on the type of auxiliary fuel tank you want to install. There are various options available, such as diesel auxiliary fuel tanks or auto-transfer auxiliary fuel tanks, each with its own advantages and features. Consider factors like your driving needs, fuel type, and vehicle compatibility when making your choice.

Choose a Suitable Location

Select an appropriate location for the auxiliary fuel tank in the bed of your Toyota pickup. It is recommended to install the tank away from the sides, front, or back of the bed to prevent it from rubbing against the truck bed and causing potential damage. Ensure that there is space on all four sides of the tank for adequate clearance.

Mark the Mounting Locations

Once you have determined the placement of the auxiliary fuel tank, use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk, to visibly mark the holes where you will attach the fuel tank to the bed of your pickup. This step ensures that you drill holes in the correct locations and avoids any mistakes.

Plan the Fuel Supply Line Routing

Before installing the auxiliary fuel tank, decide how you will route the fuel supply line from the new tank to your existing factory fuel tank. Most installations involve drilling an additional hole in the truck bed and threading the line down to the factory tank filler neck. Alternatively, if your truck has rubber plugs near the bottom of the stake pocket support posts, you can remove them, create a hole in the centre, insert the rubber fuel line, and then replace the plug.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Equipment

Ensure that you have all the required tools and equipment for the installation process. This may include items like a jack, jack stands, drill bits of various sizes, bolts, nuts, washers, and the auxiliary fuel tank with its mounting hardware. Having an extra set of hands to help lift and position the tank can also be beneficial.

Understand Safety Precautions

Prioritize safety throughout the installation process. When lifting your Toyota pickup, use a jack with an appropriate rating to ensure it can safely support the vehicle's weight. Never get under the vehicle when it is only supported by the jack. Always use appropriately sized jack stands placed on flat portions of the vehicle's frame.

By carefully following these planning steps, you will be well-prepared to install an auxiliary fuel tank in your Toyota pickup, ensuring a safe, proper, and functional setup.

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Placing the tank

When placing the auxiliary fuel tank in your Toyota pickup, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, ensure that the tank is placed away from the sides, front, and back of the truck bed, allowing some space on all four sides of the tank. This prevents the tank from rubbing against the truck bed and causing potential damage. It is also important to have easy access to fill the tank. Consider the location of the factory fuel tank filler neck and determine how you will run the fuel supply line from the auxiliary tank to the factory tank. This may involve drilling an additional hole in the truck bed or accessing the bottom side of the truck bed through the rubber plugs in the corners of the truck bed.

Before marking the holes for installation, place the auxiliary tank in the desired location and ensure it is securely supported. You may need to lift the truck and use appropriately sized jack stands to ensure safety during the installation process. Once the tank is in place, use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk, to mark the mounting locations. Center punch these locations to prevent the drill bit from straying. Start by drilling small pilot holes, then use a larger bit that matches the size of the bolts you will use to secure the tank.

After marking and drilling the holes, remove the auxiliary tank from the truck bed. You can then bolt the tank into place using the bolts, nuts, and washers you have chosen. Ensure that the fuel supply line is properly connected between the auxiliary tank and the factory tank. It is recommended to have an extra set of hands during this process to lighten the load and prevent any damage to the finish of your truck.

Additionally, consider the legal requirements for auxiliary fuel tanks in your region. Some setups may require a pump in the second tank, which can complicate the plumbing. You may also need to ensure that both tanks are at the same level to gravity-feed fuel from one tank to the other. Always refer to local regulations and seek professional advice if needed to ensure a safe and compliant installation.

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Marking the holes

Once you have chosen the location for your auxiliary diesel fuel tank, you can begin marking the holes. This step is crucial as it will ensure that the tank is securely attached to the bed of your Toyota pickup truck.

First, use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk, to visibly mark the holes where you will attach the fuel tank. This will help you avoid drilling in the wrong place. Make sure to mark the holes on the truck bed itself, rather than on the tank, as you will need to remove the tank before drilling.

Next, centre punch the marked locations. This will create a small indentation that will help guide your drill bit and prevent it from straying from the desired location. This step is especially important if you are working on a smooth or slippery surface.

Now you can begin drilling. Start by using a small drill bit to create a "pilot hole". This will make it easier to switch to a larger drill bit later. Drill the holes to a size that matches the bolts you have chosen to use. It is important to use the correct size drill bit to ensure a secure fit for your bolts.

Finally, determine how you will run the 3/8" rubber fuel supply line from the auxiliary tank to your main fuel tank. Some people choose to drill another hole in the truck bed and thread the line down to the factory tank filler neck. Alternatively, 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 bed. If you choose this method, simply remove the rubber plug, cut a hole in the centre, insert the rubber fuel line, and then replace the plug before running the line to the factory fuel neck.

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Drilling the holes

Drilling holes is a crucial step in installing an auxiliary diesel fuel tank in your Toyota pickup. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Place the Auxiliary Diesel Fuel Tank

Before you start drilling, you need to determine the placement of the auxiliary diesel fuel tank. Place the tank in the desired location, ensuring it's away from the sides, front, and back of the bed. Having an extra set of hands can be helpful when positioning the tank.

Step 2: Mark the Mounting Locations

Once the tank is in the correct position, you need to mark the holes where you'll attach the fuel tank to the bed of the pickup. Use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk. This helps prevent any mistakes when drilling. Take your time with this step to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Remove the Tank and Drill the Holes

After marking the mounting locations, remove the auxiliary diesel fuel tank from the pickup bed. Now, you can start drilling the holes. Use the right type and size of drill bits suitable for the material of your pickup bed. Drill carefully and ensure the holes are aligned with the marks you made.

Step 4: Check the Hole Placement

Before proceeding, double-check the placement of the holes. Ensure they are accurately positioned and correspond to the mounting locations you marked earlier. This step is crucial to ensure a secure and proper fit for your auxiliary diesel fuel tank.

Step 5: Prepare for Installation

With the holes drilled, you're almost ready for installation. Clean the area around the holes and ensure there are no debris or residue. You may also want to apply any necessary coatings or treatments to the drilled holes, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember to follow all safety precautions when drilling and always wear appropriate protective gear, including eye protection and gloves. By carefully following these steps, you'll be able to successfully drill the holes for installing your auxiliary diesel fuel tank in your Toyota pickup.

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Testing the tank

Testing your fuel tank is an important part of routine maintenance. It can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your equipment safe from contaminants. Here are the steps you should take to test your auxiliary fuel tank:

Fuel Sample Test

This test will help you determine if there is any water in your fuel tank. Water in the tank can cause biodegradation of fuel, leading to a decrease in engine power and potentially serious issues. To perform this test, you will need to collect a fuel sample from the tank and inspect it for any signs of water contamination. Since water is heavier than fuel, it will sink to the bottom of the tank. If you discover water in the tank, it is important to take steps to remove it and prevent further contamination.

Integrity Test

The integrity test begins with a visual inspection of the fuel tank. You should regularly inspect the outside of your tank for any signs of corrosion, discharge, fuel accumulation, or general deterioration. It is important to inspect the entire tank, including the foundation and support structures. In addition to the visual inspection, you may also need to conduct further tests to ensure the integrity of the tank and prevent leaks. This may include hiring an expert to perform a more comprehensive inspection if required by government regulations.

Testing Schedule

There are no government-prescribed minimum inspection procedures for fuel tanks. It is up to you to decide when and how often to perform maintenance and inspections. However, it is recommended to incorporate bulk fuel tank inspections as part of a regular maintenance plan to prevent unexpected failures. Consistent visual inspections and testing can help identify potential issues early on and ensure the safe and efficient operation of your vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

Installing an auxiliary fuel tank in your Toyota pickup can increase the fuel capacity and driving range of your vehicle. This can provide peace of mind when driving long distances, as you will have extra fuel in emergency situations.

Auxiliary fuel tanks are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 37 to 100 gallons. The size you choose will depend on your specific needs and the compatibility of your vehicle. For example, Transfer Flow offers a 40-gallon in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system that is designed to fit most diesel trucks, while their 82-gallon refueling tank system fits in a short bed pickup truck.

The parts needed for installation will depend on the specific auxiliary fuel tank system you purchase. For example, Transfer Flow's auxiliary fuel tank systems come with all the necessary parts for installation, including internal baffles for extra strength and durability. Additionally, you may find it helpful to have an extra set of hands when lifting the tank into the bed of your truck.

The installation process may vary depending on the specific auxiliary fuel tank and vehicle. However, some general steps include determining the placement of the auxiliary fuel tank, marking the mounting locations, and drilling holes to attach the fuel tank to the bed of the pickup. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions during the installation process.

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