Katerina Swanson
Auxiliary fuel tanks are permanently mounted additional fuel storage systems that provide extended range or prolonged operation for vehicles or equipment. They are plumbed directly into your stock factory tank, with some models featuring a small 12-volt pump and others being gravity-fed. Auxiliary fuel tanks are a great way to maintain good fuel levels without the effort of frequent refuelling, and can save you from running out of fuel in remote areas.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Provide additional fuel storage for vehicles |
| Use | Permanently mounted in vehicles to extend range or fuel operation time |
| Installation | Installed and connected directly to the stock tank |
| Fuel Transfer | Some models use a small 12-volt pump, while others are gravity-fed |
| Shut-Off Valve | Most types have a shut-off valve to stop fuel transfer if needed |
| Capacity | Available in various sizes, typically ranging from 37 to 100 gallons |
| Benefits | Avoids the need to stop for fuel, saves money by choosing cheaper gas stations, and provides peace of mind on long trips |
| Safety | Meets official safety requirements for combustible fuel tanks |
| Construction | Made from heavy-duty materials like aluminized steel or aluminum |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Auxiliary fuel tanks are a safe alternative to plastic fuel containers
Auxiliary fuel tanks are a great way to ensure you don't run out of fuel during long-distance travel or when visiting multiple job sites in a day. They are also useful when your factory tank isn't sufficient for extended driving or towing. An auxiliary fuel tank can save you time and money by reducing the number of stops you need to make for refuelling, allowing you to be selective about when and where you stop and helping you avoid detours and expensive gas stations.
While plastic fuel containers can be used as an alternative, they come with their own set of risks and inconveniences. Strapping plastic containers filled with fuel in the truck bed can lead to accidents, lost or spilled tanks, and even theft. Additionally, keeping a plastic container of fuel inside the vehicle can expose you to harmful fumes, affecting your health and driving ability.
On the other hand, auxiliary fuel tanks, when installed by professionals, offer a safer and more secure option. These tanks are made from high-quality, heavy-duty materials that meet official safety requirements for combustible fuel tanks. They are designed to withstand extensive use and provide a safer alternative to plastic containers, which need to be carefully protected from the sun's UV rays and extreme temperatures to prevent degradation over time.
Furthermore, auxiliary fuel tanks are often equipped with additional features for convenience and safety. For example, some tanks come with built-in tool storage, allowing you to make better use of your space. Auxiliary tanks can also be designed with baffles for extra strength and durability, ensuring that your fuel tank can withstand the demands of long-distance travel.
Overall, auxiliary fuel tanks offer a safer, more reliable, and convenient option compared to plastic fuel containers. They provide peace of mind on the road, ensuring you have sufficient fuel for your journey while also meeting the highest safety standards.
Seafoam Fuel Treatment: How Much to Use?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
They are plumbed into your stock tank
Auxiliary fuel tanks are a great way to increase your fuel capacity for long hauls, RVing, off-roading adventures, or just everyday convenience. They are plumbed into your stock tank in a variety of ways, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
One common method is to use a small 12v pump to transfer fuel from the auxiliary tank to the stock tank. This can be done manually by turning a crank or pumping a handle, or automatically with an electric pump. Some auxiliary tanks are equipped with a TRAX 4™ operating system, which ensures smooth and efficient fuel transfers without the need for manual intervention.
Another method is to use a gravity-fed system, where the auxiliary tank is positioned higher than the stock tank, allowing fuel to flow downwards into the stock tank as the engine consumes fuel. This system can be controlled with a ball valve or a similar mechanism, allowing you to stop the flow of fuel if needed.
It is important to ensure that all connections are properly sealed and free of leaks, especially those made under the truck's cargo floor. A fuel return line is also necessary for safety, as it prevents overfilling the tanks. Additionally, some auxiliary tanks come with a shut-off valve, allowing you to stop the tank from feeding the main tank if desired or in the event of a suspected leak.
When installing an auxiliary fuel tank, it is essential to consider the placement of the tank and the routing of the hoses. Some people choose to route the hose directly out of the side of the bed, while others splice into the vent tube. The switch installation may also vary, depending on whether you want the fuel to dump into the main tank when there is or is not a 12v present.
Overall, plumbing an auxiliary fuel tank into your stock tank can be a complex process, but it offers a seamless integration that provides convenience, reliability, and extended driving range for your vehicle.
Why External Fuel Tanks Burn Up
You may want to see also
Explore related products
They can be gravity-fed or use an electrical pump
Auxiliary fuel tanks are an excellent way to ensure you have enough fuel for long trips or journeys through remote areas. They are also a good way to save money by avoiding the need to refuel at stations with high prices due to a lack of local competition.
Auxiliary tanks are installed and connected directly to your stock tank. They are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 30 to 100 gallons. They can be gravity-fed or use an electrical pump. Gravity-fed systems keep refilling your main tank as long as there is fuel in the auxiliary tank. You won't notice any reduction in your main tank until the auxiliary is empty. Gravity-fed systems do not require any manual intervention, making them a convenient option.
On the other hand, electrical pump systems offer more control over refuelling. These systems typically have a switch inside the truck that you can flip to refill the stock tank when you see fit. This can make it easier to keep track of how much fuel you have. Electrical pump systems require a fuel return line for safety to prevent overfilling the tanks.
Some auxiliary fuel tanks use a small 12-volt pump, while others are gravity-fed. Most types come with a shut-off valve to stop the flow of fuel if needed, for example, if you suspect a leak.
Overall, auxiliary fuel tanks offer increased fuel capacity and flexibility for long-distance travel, whether you choose a gravity-fed or electrically pumped system.
Storing Your Boat? Don't Forget to Plug Fuel Tank Vents
You may want to see also
Explore related products
They are available in a variety of sizes
Auxiliary fuel tanks are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from small 30-gallon tanks to larger options such as 75-gallon and even 92-gallon tanks. The size you choose will depend on your specific needs and the capacity of your vehicle. For example, a larger truck may accommodate a bigger tank, while a smaller vehicle might require a more compact option.
The shape of auxiliary tanks also varies, with options such as the standard rectangular tank, the wedge-style tank, and the L-shape tank, which is designed specifically for long bed diesel trucks. The L-shape tank, constructed from .
Additionally, the size of the auxiliary tank will impact the range it provides. For example, a 40-gallon tank can last for approximately 800 miles, while a 95-gallon capacity can offer even more extended mileage. The range of an auxiliary tank is also influenced by the capacity of the vehicle's main fuel tank and the rate of fuel transfer between the two.
When choosing an auxiliary tank, it is essential to consider the available space in your vehicle and the desired range. By selecting the appropriate size and shape, you can ensure that the tank fits securely and provides the necessary fuel capacity for your journeys.
Draining Your Fuel Tank: What's the Cost?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
They are useful for long-distance travel
Auxiliary fuel tanks are an effective solution for those who often travel long distances. They are permanently mounted additional fuel storage systems that provide extended range or prolonged operation for vehicles. This means that with an auxiliary tank, you can avoid the hassle of having to stop to refuel as frequently, saving you time and effort.
For example, an auxiliary tank can be particularly useful if you are travelling on long, desolate roads where fuel stations may be few and far between. With an auxiliary tank, you can rest assured that you won't run out of fuel in remote areas and can instead focus on enjoying your journey.
Additionally, auxiliary tanks can help you save money on fuel. With the extra fuel capacity, you can be more selective about where you refuel, allowing you to choose better and cheaper gas stations without having to make unnecessary detours. This is especially useful when travelling through areas with remote gas stations that tend to have higher prices due to a lack of competition.
Auxiliary tanks also offer safety benefits. They are a much safer option than carrying plastic containers of extra fuel, which can be dangerous. Quality auxiliary tanks are made from heavy-duty materials and are designed to meet official safety requirements for combustible fuel tanks, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
Furthermore, auxiliary tanks provide convenience and reliability. They are available in a variety of sizes to fit your specific needs and can seamlessly integrate with your vehicle. Some models even come with features like a 12-volt pump or a gravity-fed system, allowing for smooth and efficient fuel transfers without any manual intervention. Overall, auxiliary fuel tanks can greatly enhance your long-distance travel experience by providing extended range, cost savings, safety, and convenience.
Fuel Tank Capacity of a School Bus Explained
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary fuel tank is an additional fuel storage system that is installed and connected directly to your vehicle's stock tank. They are permanently mounted and provide extended range or prolonged operation for vehicles.
Auxiliary fuel tanks are a great way to maintain good fuel levels without the effort of frequent refuelling. They can save you from running out of fuel on long trips and in remote areas, and can also save you money by avoiding gas stations with hiked-up prices.
Auxiliary tanks are plumbed directly into your vehicle's stock tank, either with the aid of a small 12v pump or via a gravity-fed system. Most types come with a shut-off valve to prevent the tank from feeding the main tank if desired or in the event of a leak.
