Sylvie Willis
Installing an auxiliary fuel tank is a great way to extend your vehicle's driving range and provide peace of mind during long trips. However, it requires careful planning and execution to ensure a safe and proper installation. This process typically involves marking the mounting locations, drilling holes, and setting up the fuel supply line. Some prefer a gravity feed system, while others opt for a pump-based approach. The former allows fuel to flow from the auxiliary tank as the main tank is used, while the latter often includes a switch to manually control the fuel transfer. Regardless of the method, it is essential to have sufficient workspace and an extra set of hands to avoid accidents and potential damage to the vehicle.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Understanding gravity feed vs pump-based systems
Gravity feed and pump-based systems are two ways to get fuel from an auxiliary tank to a main tank. With a gravity feed system, both the factory and auxiliary tanks are filled. As fuel from the factory tank is used, it is replaced by fuel from the auxiliary tank. This keeps the main tank full until the auxiliary tank is empty. A pump-based system also involves filling both tanks. However, with a pump-based system, the driver must manually flip a switch to transfer fuel from the auxiliary tank to the main tank as the latter is being used.
Gravity feed systems have the advantage of simplicity, as they do not require the driver to monitor fuel levels and manually activate a pump. This reduces the risk of losing fuel due to oversight. However, gravity feed systems may not be suitable for all types of auxiliary tanks, such as those with fuel nozzles for tractors. Pump-based systems offer more control over fuel transfer but require additional switches and gauges that the driver must monitor and manage.
Some drivers prefer the idea of manually controlling fuel transfer and having the associated switches and gauges. Pump-based systems also allow for more precise control over fuel levels in the main tank. For example, a driver can choose to only partially fill the main tank from the auxiliary tank, rather than keeping it consistently full. This flexibility can be advantageous in certain situations.
It is important to note that the legality of gravity feed systems can be complex and dependent on specific regulations. In some cases, pump-based systems may be required to comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) rules. When considering a gravity feed or pump-based system for an auxiliary fuel tank, it is crucial to consult relevant laws and guidelines to ensure compliance.
Cleaning a Semi Truck Fuel Tank: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Selecting the right tank
Firstly, it is important to choose a tank that suits your specific vehicle. Different vehicles have different fuel tank configurations, so you need to ensure the auxiliary tank is compatible with your car's make and model. This includes considering the available space in your vehicle for the auxiliary tank. Make sure you have enough room to work and place the tank away from the sides, front, and back of the 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.
The next factor to consider is the capacity of the auxiliary tank. Determine how much extra fuel you will need for your trips and choose a tank size accordingly. Auxiliary tanks can range from 75 to 82 gallons in capacity, so select one that suits your requirements. Keep in mind that larger tanks may be more prone to tipping over, so you'll need to take additional precautions during installation.
Additionally, you should decide whether you want a gravity feed or pump-based system for your auxiliary tank. Both options have their advantages, but research suggests that gravity feed may be the preferred solution for an in-bed auxiliary fuel tank. With gravity feed, you fill both the factory and auxiliary tanks, and as the factory tank fuel decreases, it is automatically replaced by fuel from the auxiliary tank. This keeps the main tank full until the auxiliary tank empties. A pump-based system, on the other hand, requires manually flipping a switch to transfer fuel from the auxiliary tank to the main tank while driving.
Finally, consider the additional components you may need, such as valves, plumbing, and wiring. These can add to the overall cost of the installation. You may also want to look into fuel gauge compatibility to ensure your vehicle's fuel gauge functions correctly with the auxiliary tank.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the right auxiliary fuel tank for your vehicle and ensure a proper and safe installation.
Fuel Consumption of the Abrams Tank: How Much?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Preparing the truck bed
Clear the Truck Bed
Start by ensuring you have a spacious and clutter-free work area. Remove any items inside the bed of the truck, such as a bed mat, to create a safe and comfortable working environment. This step is important for preventing accidents and injuries that can occur when working in a cramped space.
Positioning the Auxiliary Diesel Fuel Tank
Before drilling any holes, carefully position the auxiliary diesel fuel tank in the truck bed. It is recommended to install the tank away from the sides, front, and back of the bed, allowing some space on all four sides of the tank. This spacing prevents the tank from rubbing against the truck bed and causing potential damage.
Marking the Mounting Holes
Once you have determined the optimal location for the auxiliary diesel 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 the pickup. This marking ensures that you drill the holes in the correct locations. All fuel tanks have mounting tabs located on the bottom edges, or on the bottom and taller back edges for taller tanks that are more prone to tipping over.
Centre Punch and Drilling
After marking the mounting locations, remove the auxiliary diesel fuel tank from the pickup bed. Use a centre punch on the marked locations to create a small indentation, which will guide the drill bit and prevent it from straying. Start by drilling pilot holes with a small bit before using a larger bit that matches the size of the bolts you plan to use. It is crucial to check the undercarriage of the truck bed to avoid drilling into any essential components, such as the existing fuel tank.
Running the Fuel Supply Line
Before bolting the new tank into place, carefully plan the routing of the fuel supply line from the auxiliary tank to the factory fuel tank. A common size for the rubber fuel supply line is 3/8", and it is important to ensure it is securely connected between the two tanks.
These steps for preparing the truck bed form a critical foundation for the safe and effective installation of an auxiliary diesel fuel tank.
Fuel Tank Capacity on Peterbilt Trucks: How Many?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Drilling and mounting the tank
Drilling and mounting an auxiliary fuel tank requires careful preparation and execution to ensure a safe and secure installation. Here is a step-by-step guide for this process:
First, ensure you have ample space to work and remove any items in the bed of the truck that might hinder your movement. It is also recommended to have an extra set of hands to help lift the auxiliary fuel tank. Place the tank in the desired installation location, ensuring it is positioned away from the sides, front, and back of the bed to prevent rubbing and potential damage.
The next step is to mark the holes for installation. Use the mounting tabs on the tank as a guide and mark the corresponding holes on the truck bed. It is important to use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk, to clearly indicate the drilling spots and avoid any mistakes. Once the mounting locations are marked, remove the auxiliary tank from the bed.
Before drilling, use a centre punch on the marked locations to create a small indentation. This helps guide the drill bit and prevents it from straying. Start with a small pilot hole and gradually increase the size until it matches the bolts you plan to use. It is crucial to inspect the undercarriage of the truck bed to avoid drilling into any vital components, such as the existing fuel tank.
After drilling the holes, you can bolt the auxiliary fuel tank into place. At this stage, you should also plan the routing of the fuel supply line from the new tank to the factory fuel tank. Ensure the fuel supply line is secure and does not interfere with any other components.
By following these steps, you can securely drill and mount an auxiliary fuel tank, ensuring a safe and functional addition to your vehicle's fuel system.
Quickly Plug a Fuel Tank Leak: Easy Steps
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Running the fuel supply line
When running the fuel supply line, you will need to determine the most efficient and safe path for the line to travel from the auxiliary tank to the factory fuel tank. Mark the mounting locations for the line, considering factors such as the need for some space around the auxiliary tank to prevent rubbing and potential damage. It is recommended to use a brightly coloured marking tool, such as a wax pen or chalk, to clearly indicate the mounting holes.
Once the mounting locations are marked, remove the auxiliary tank temporarily to prevent any accidental damage during the drilling process. Use a centre punch on the marked locations to create a pilot hole that will guide the drill bit and ensure accurate drilling. Start with a small drill bit to create a pilot hole, then use a larger bit to enlarge the hole, matching the size of the bolts you plan to use. Before drilling the final hole, inspect the undercarriage of the truck bed to avoid drilling into any critical components, such as the existing fuel tank.
After drilling the holes, you can install the rubber fuel supply line. Ensure that the line is securely connected to both the auxiliary and factory fuel tanks, following any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. It is important to handle the fuel supply line with care to avoid any kinks or damage that could impede fuel flow. Additionally, consider adding a filter to the fuel supply line to ensure that the fuel entering the factory tank is free of contaminants.
Finally, depending on your preference and vehicle setup, you may want to install a manual valve or a solenoid-activated valve in the fuel supply line. This will allow you to control the flow of fuel between the auxiliary and factory tanks. A manual valve gives you the option to turn off the fuel transfer when the auxiliary tank is not in use. On the other hand, a solenoid-activated valve offers the convenience of controlling the fuel transfer with a switch from inside the cab.
Fuel Tank Sender: Testing and Troubleshooting Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary fuel tank is a great support system that provides extended driving capability. It gives peace of mind when driving long distances, knowing that there is extra fuel for emergency situations.
There are two main ways to plumb an auxiliary fuel tank: gravity feed and pump-based. Gravity feed involves filling both the factory and auxiliary tank. As the factory tank gets used, fuel from the auxiliary tank replaces it, keeping the main tank full until the auxiliary tank empties. With a pump-based system, both tanks are filled, and the driver flips a switch to move fuel from the auxiliary tank to the main tank as the main tank gets used.
It is important to ensure that there is enough space to work and that the truck is lifted safely. Remove any items from the bed of the truck and consider enlisting an extra set of hands to help lift the tank. Mark the holes for installation, using a brightly coloured marking tool to avoid drilling the wrong hole. Check the undercarriage of the truck bed to avoid drilling into the existing fuel tank or other important components.
One issue is that the fuel gauge may not work correctly with an auxiliary tank, causing the truck computer to think the fuel tank sender is bad. Another potential problem is that the solenoid may burn up if the auxiliary tank runs dry without the driver's knowledge.
