Katerina Swanson
Placing a fuel tank in the trunk of a car can be dangerous due to the risk of fuel spills and vapours igniting in the event of an accident. However, with careful installation and safety measures, it is possible to have a fuel tank in the trunk. This involves creating a separate compartment for the tank, using fire-resistant materials, and implementing proper ventilation to prevent vapour buildup. Additionally, fuel containers should be secured upright and removed from the vehicle as soon as possible to minimise risks associated with fuel fumes and spills.
Characteristics and considerations for putting a fuel tank in the trunk of a car:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | It is dangerous to put a fuel tank in the trunk due to the lack of a firewall between the trunk and the passenger compartment. Gas can spill into the passenger compartment in an accident. |
| Fuel spills and leaks | To prevent fuel spills, consider fabricating a funnel around a non-vented filler cap with a drain to the outside. |
| Vapors | Use a vapor canister to vent the fuel tank and prevent vapors from collecting in the trunk. |
| Appearance | A polished cover for the tank can be fabricated to improve its appearance. |
| Fuel tank separation | Build a floor structure to separate the fuel tank from the trunk compartment. |
| Fuel transport | If transporting a fuel container, always fully secure the cap and place it in the trunk of your car, securing it with a bungee cord, rope, or net to prevent tipping or sliding. |
| Fuel type | Always match the type of fuel to the correct container color to avoid mixing fuels. |
| Fueling up | When fueling up a gas can in the back of your vehicle, touch the fuel nozzle to the side of the fuel container first to prevent static electricity discharge and accidental ignition of fuel vapors. |
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What You'll Learn
- Construct a floor structure to separate the tank from the trunk
- Use a funnel with a non-vented filler cap and an outside drain
- Vent the tank outside the trunk with a charcoal canister
- Use a race car-style fuel cell with a bladder to prevent leaks
- Avoid the passenger compartment—use the trunk or truck bed
Construct a floor structure to separate the tank from the trunk
Constructing a floor structure to separate the fuel tank from the trunk is a viable option to ensure safety. Here are the steps you can follow to achieve this:
Planning and Design
Start by creating a detailed plan and design of the floor structure. Measure the available space in the trunk and decide on the dimensions of the floor structure. Consider the size and placement of the fuel tank, ensuring it complies with safety regulations.
Choose Materials
Select appropriate materials for constructing the floor structure. Common choices include stainless steel, aluminium, or mild steel. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and relatively easy to weld, but it can be more expensive. Aluminium is also highly resistant to corrosion due to its oxidation layer, and it is significantly lighter than steel, making it a popular choice for fuel tank construction. However, aluminium can be challenging to weld, so you may need to enlist the help of a professional welder. If you opt for mild steel, remember that it is corrosive, so you will need to coat both the inside and outside of the fuel tank, which can be a tedious and delicate process.
Prototype Testing
Before proceeding with construction, create a prototype of the floor structure and the fuel tank using cardboard. This step will allow you to test the fit and make any necessary modifications. Ensure that the prototype accurately represents the pieces you will cut out of sheet metal for the final construction.
Construction and Installation
With the design finalised, begin constructing the floor structure using your chosen material. Weld the pieces together, ensuring a sturdy and secure build. If you are using aluminium, consider having a professional welder assist with this step. Coat the fuel tank as per the manufacturer's instructions, especially if using mild steel. Once the floor structure is complete, install it in the trunk, ensuring a precise fit.
Ventilation and Safety Measures
To prevent fuel vapours from building up in the trunk, ensure proper ventilation for the fuel tank. Use a vented gas cap or a charcoal canister setup to manage fuel vapours. Consider installing a rollover valve in the vent for added safety. Additionally, think about incorporating a firewall between the trunk and the passenger compartment to enhance safety further.
By following these steps and adhering to safety guidelines, you can effectively construct a floor structure to separate the fuel tank from the trunk, ensuring a secure and well-designed installation.
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Use a funnel with a non-vented filler cap and an outside drain
If you're considering installing a fuel tank in the trunk of your car, safety should be a top priority. One way to achieve this is by using a funnel with a non-vented filler cap and an outside drain. Here's a detailed guide on this method:
The main concern with trunk-mounted fuel tanks is the potential for fuel leaks and spills, which can be dangerous and cause damage. To address this, you can fabricate a funnel around the filler cap to catch any drips or spills during fill-ups. This funnel should be designed with a non-vented filler cap to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the trunk or the atmosphere. Instead, an outside drain is incorporated into the funnel design to safely direct any excess fuel away from the vehicle.
When creating the funnel, ensure that it is securely attached to the filler cap and that the drain is directed towards a safe area outside the vehicle. This could be towards the ground, away from any heat sources or areas where fuel could pool and pose a fire hazard. Consider using a hose or pipe to guide the fuel to a specific drainage area.
In addition to the funnel, it is crucial to implement other safety measures. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of fuel vapors in the trunk. You can achieve this by venting the tank to the outside of the trunk, preferably using a charcoal or vapor canister. A rollover valve in the vent can provide additional safety.
Another safety measure is to build a physical barrier between the fuel tank and the passenger compartment. This can be done by constructing a floor or framework with sheet metal to isolate the tank from the trunk. A small hinged door can be incorporated to provide access to the filler cap and funnel while maintaining the barrier.
Furthermore, consider adding a firewall between the trunk and the passenger compartment to enhance safety. This can be done by using steel sheets with tubing in between, creating a double-layered barrier. Any gaps in the firewall can be sealed with a fire-retardant expanding foam to prevent the spread of fire and eliminate fuel vapors.
By following these instructions and paying close attention to safety measures, you can effectively use a funnel with a non-vented filler cap and an outside drain to manage your trunk-mounted fuel tank. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with professionals or mechanics to ensure your setup complies with safety regulations.
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Vent the tank outside the trunk with a charcoal canister
When installing a fuel tank in the trunk, it is important to consider safety measures to prevent fuel spills and leaks, as well as the build-up of vapors in the trunk. One effective way to address this issue is to vent the tank outside the trunk using a charcoal canister.
The charcoal canister acts as a vapor canister, trapping and filtering the fuel vapors before they are released into the atmosphere. This helps to prevent the build-up of fumes in enclosed areas, such as the trunk, and reduces the risk of fire or explosion. The canister should be installed in the vent line of the fuel tank, allowing the vapors to be drawn into the canister and away from the fuel tank and trunk compartment.
It is important to ensure that the charcoal canister is properly maintained and not clogged or saturated, as this can affect the performance of the fuel tank and ventilation system. Regular inspection and replacement of the charcoal canister, as well as the vent lines and other components, are crucial to maintain the efficiency and safety of the system.
There are different types of charcoal canisters available, including those designed for marine use or specific to certain vehicle models. It is important to select a suitable charcoal canister and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance if needed.
Additionally, other safety measures should be considered in conjunction with the charcoal canister, such as a rollover valve in the vent line, a firewall between the trunk and passenger compartment, and a fuel tank with a bladder to prevent leaks in the event of an accident. By combining multiple safety measures, the overall safety of the vehicle and its occupants can be significantly improved.
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Use a race car-style fuel cell with a bladder to prevent leaks
Safety fuel cells work similarly to regular gas tanks but are designed to prevent fuel spills in the event of a crash. Fuel Safe manufactures the highest quality wedge fuel cells for formula and vintage race cars. These fuel cells are designed to be cost-effective and provide FIA FT3 protection.
A fuel cell bladder is a bag that contains the fuel. It must be strong enough to resist tears and punctures, but also flexible enough to deform without cracking and leaking in the event of a high-impact collision. The bladder is made of very high-tech materials like aramid fibers coated with special elastomers, making it semi-rigid. The fuel cell foam baffling acts as a sponge, preventing the fuel inside the cell from exploding if a fire starts.
Fuel Safe offers safety fuel cells that are compatible with various fuel types, including race gas, alcohol fuels, ethanol blends, diesel, and pump gas. They offer a range of capacity options and configurations to suit different racing needs. Their products meet the strictest safety demands of the racing industry.
If you're considering a race car-style fuel cell for your trunk-mounted fuel tank, it is important to prioritize safety. Ensure that your fuel cell meets the applicable FIA standards and bring the necessary certification to any tech inspections. Additionally, consider using protective tape along the edges and bottom surface of the bladder to protect against chafing.
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Avoid the passenger compartment—use the trunk or truck bed
Placing a fuel tank in the trunk of a car or the bed of a truck is a complex process that requires careful consideration of safety measures. Here are some detailed instructions to avoid the passenger compartment and safely install a fuel tank in the trunk:
Firstly, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with fuel tanks in the trunk. The main concern is the lack of a firewall between the trunk and the passenger compartment, which can lead to dangerous gas spills in the event of an accident. Therefore, building a robust firewall should be a priority.
To start, construct a floor structure that separates the fuel tank from the trunk compartment. This structure should be made of sturdy materials, such as steel or aluminium, to withstand any potential impact. Enclose the framework with sheet metal to isolate the tank completely. Consider adding a small hinged door within the structure for easy access to the filler cap.
Next, address the issue of fuel vapours and fumes. Install a vapor canister, preferably a polished one, to prevent fumes from accumulating in the enclosed trunk space. Alternatively, opt for a race car-style fuel cell with a bladder, which provides an extra layer of protection against leaks and ruptures.
Additionally, consider fabricating a "funnel" around a non-vented filler cap to prevent fuel spills during fill-ups. This funnel should have a drain to redirect any fuel drips away from the trunk and outside the vehicle. Also, ensure that the tank is vented to the outside of the trunk, preferably with a charcoal canister, and include a rollover valve in the vent for added safety.
Finally, take extra precautions by keeping safety equipment in your vehicle. At the very least, keep a fire extinguisher within reach of the driver's seat. If you want to go a step further, consider installing a fire suppression system specifically designed for fuel tank fires. Remember, while a well-installed fuel tank in the trunk can be safe, it is always crucial to prioritise safety and consult with professionals.
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Frequently asked questions
Putting a fuel tank in your trunk is not recommended due to safety concerns. If you are set on doing so, you should install a firewall to separate the tank from the passenger compartment. You should also ensure that the tank is correctly vented to prevent vapours from collecting in the trunk.
A fuel vapour canister will prevent fumes from collecting in enclosed areas. This is important as fumes can cause dizziness and vomiting and can create a combustible environment.
You can build a floor over the fuel tank to effectively remove it from the trunk. You can also fabricate a funnel around a non-vented filler cap with a drain to the outside to prevent fuel spills.
If safety is a priority, you should consider a race car-style fuel cell with a bladder. This will hold the fuel and prevent leaks or ruptures in the event of an accident.
Always transport fuel containers, also known as jerry cans, securely in the trunk of your car or the bed of your truck. Use a bungee cord, rope, or net to secure the container in an upright position so that it does not tip over or slide around.
