Rajan Wilcox
Auxiliary fuel tanks are extra fuel tanks that work in tandem with a vehicle's stock OE fuel tank. They are sometimes referred to as transfer or add-in tanks. Auxiliary tanks can be used to increase the range of a vehicle, providing up to twice the range capacity when compared to stock tanks. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be installed by a professional or, in some cases, by the vehicle owner themselves. Auxiliary tanks can also cut fuel costs by allowing the user to fill up when they want, rather than when they have to.
Characteristics of Auxiliary and Standard Fuel Tanks
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Auxiliary tanks are extra fuel tanks that work in tandem with a stock OE fuel tank. |
| Installation | Auxiliary tanks are plumbed into the stock factory tank. They can be installed by a professional or, in some cases, by the user. |
| Capacity | Auxiliary tanks can nearly double the capacity of standard tanks. |
| Transfer | Auxiliary tanks transfer fuel to the main tank automatically or via a simple press of a button. |
| Usage | Auxiliary tanks are useful for long trips or in remote areas, providing peace of mind and cutting fuel costs. |
| Compatibility | Auxiliary tanks are compatible with a range of vehicles, including trucks, off-road vehicles, and UTVs. |
| Manufacturers | Auxiliary tanks are manufactured by companies such as TITAN, LRA, Transfer Flow, RDS, and LRAM. |
| Features | Auxiliary tanks may include features like fuel gauges, baffles to reduce sloshing, drain fittings, and toolboxes. |
| Fuel Type | Auxiliary tanks are typically used for diesel fuel but can also be certified for other fuels. |
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What You'll Learn
The benefits of auxiliary tanks
An auxiliary fuel tank is an extra tank that works in tandem with a vehicle's stock tank. It can be installed underneath or on top of a vehicle, depending on its design. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from materials such as military-grade polymer or aluminium.
Auxiliary tanks offer several benefits to drivers:
Increased Range and Efficiency
Auxiliary tanks increase the fuel capacity of a vehicle, allowing it to travel longer distances without needing to refuel. This extended range offers greater flexibility and efficiency in trip planning, as drivers can choose when and where to refuel, avoiding unnecessary detours and taking advantage of cheaper fuel options.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Auxiliary tanks provide peace of mind by reducing the risk of running out of fuel during long-haul trips or in remote areas. They offer a safer alternative to carrying extra fuel in plastic containers, which can be unsafe and inconvenient. Quality auxiliary tanks made from heavy-duty materials meet official safety standards, ensuring secure and proper fuel storage.
Convenience and Cost Savings
Auxiliary tanks reduce the frequency of refuelling stops, saving time and effort. They also enable drivers to be more selective about where they refuel, avoiding stations with inflated prices. Additionally, some auxiliary tanks come with toolboxes, providing a convenient storage option for tools and equipment.
Easy Installation and Transfer
Auxiliary tanks can be installed by skilled individuals or trained professionals. They are designed for easy fuel transfer, often featuring transfer pumps activated by the press of a button. Some tanks include features such as fuel gauges, baffles to reduce sloshing, and shut-off valves for added control over fuel transfer.
Compatibility and Compliance
Auxiliary tanks are available for a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, off-road vehicles, UTVs, boats, and generators. Certain auxiliary tank systems, such as the Auto Fuel Controller (AFC), ensure legal compliance in all 50 states by meeting or exceeding DOT and EPA regulations. These systems provide effortless operation, automatically transferring fuel to the stock tank without the need for manual switching.
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The price difference between transfer and auxiliary tanks
Auxiliary and transfer tanks are both used to increase the fuel capacity of vehicles or equipment. However, they have distinct purposes and features that result in price variations.
Auxiliary fuel tanks are designed to supplement the existing fuel tank of a vehicle. They are typically installed in the bed of a truck and used in conjunction with the factory-installed tank, providing extra fuel storage capacity. Auxiliary tanks are integrated into the vehicle's fuel system, often with their own fuel transfer system, and can be gravity-fed or use an inline fuel pump. They are commonly used in long-haul trucks, RVs, or off-road vehicles where extended range or prolonged operation without refuelling is required. Auxiliary tanks are generally more expensive than transfer tanks due to their integrated nature and additional features.
Transfer tanks, on the other hand, are primarily used for transferring fuel from one location to another. They are portable and can be easily loaded onto a truck, trailer, or other vehicles. Transfer tanks are equipped with pumps, hoses, and dispensing nozzles, similar to a mini fuelling station. They are commonly used in construction, agriculture, and fuel delivery services for temporary fuel transportation. Transfer tanks are not designed to add capacity to the existing fuel system and are less permanent, standalone units that can be removed or transferred between vehicles. They are typically more affordable than auxiliary tanks.
The price difference between auxiliary and transfer tanks can vary depending on factors such as capacity, shape, and material. For example, steel tanks are generally less expensive than aluminium tanks, but aluminium tanks may be preferred for their durability and resistance to rust. Additionally, the inclusion of features such as external pumps, toolboxes, and fuel transfer systems can also impact the price.
It is important to note that the legality of certain features, such as gravity feed systems, may vary depending on the state or country. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that any auxiliary or transfer tank they acquire complies with the relevant regulations.
When deciding between an auxiliary or transfer tank, it is essential to consider your specific needs and intended use. Both options provide additional fuel capacity, but the level of integration, permanence, and convenience differs, resulting in price variations between the two types of tanks.
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How to install an auxiliary tank
Installing an auxiliary fuel tank can be a great way to increase the capacity of your vehicle's fuel tank, allowing you to explore longer distances without worrying about refuelling. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install an auxiliary fuel tank:
Prepare the Vehicle:
Firstly, you'll need to decide on the type of auxiliary tank that best suits your vehicle. Auxiliary tanks come in various shapes and sizes, and can be mounted beneath or on top of your vehicle, depending on the model. Ensure you have the necessary tools and skills to install the tank yourself, or consult a trained professional for assistance.
Acquire the Auxiliary Tank:
Purchase an auxiliary tank that is compatible with your vehicle. Popular manufacturers include LRA, TITAN, and Aluminum Tank and Truck Accessories, Inc. (ATTA). These companies offer tanks for various vehicles, including Toyota, Lexus, and Mitsubishi models.
Connect the Auxiliary Tank:
Auxiliary tanks tap into the vehicle's main OE (original equipment) tank and connect to the fuel system. This is typically done by using a transfer pump that initiates fuel transfers when necessary. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation, as procedures may vary slightly between different tanks and vehicles.
Test the Installation:
Once the auxiliary tank is installed, test its functionality. Ensure that the fuel gauge for the auxiliary tank is mounted in a convenient location, and test the transfer of fuel between the main tank and the auxiliary tank. Check for any leaks or malfunctions, and ensure that the auxiliary tank functions properly, especially in different temperature conditions, as demonstrated by the LRA aux tank during the Alcan 5000 Rally.
Maintain and Refuel:
Regularly inspect your auxiliary tank for any signs of wear or damage, and keep it maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations. When refuelling, take advantage of the increased capacity by filling up when it's convenient and cost-effective. Remember that auxiliary tanks provide flexibility in refuelling, allowing you to shop for better fuel prices.
By following these steps, you can successfully install an auxiliary fuel tank, increasing your vehicle's range and providing peace of mind during long journeys or adverse weather conditions.
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The difference between auxiliary tanks and replacement tanks
Auxiliary fuel tanks, also known as ""transfer or "add-in" tanks, are extra fuel tanks that work in conjunction with a vehicle's standard OE (original equipment) fuel tank. They are typically installed in the bed of a truck and used in addition to the factory-installed tank, providing extra fuel storage capacity. Auxiliary tanks can be particularly useful for long-haul vehicles, RVs, or off-road vehicles, where extended range or prolonged operation without refuelling is required. They can also be beneficial in situations where foul weather, such as wildfires or floods, may impact fuel availability.
Auxiliary tanks come in various shapes and sizes and can be mounted beneath or on top of a vehicle. They are often permanently mounted and have their own fuel transfer system, utilising an inline fuel pump or gravity feeding to transfer fuel from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. It is important to note that gravity feeding is only legal for diesel fuel and not gasoline.
On the other hand, replacement fuel tanks offer an alternative option to increase fuel capacity. As the name suggests, these tanks replace the existing fuel tank of a vehicle, providing a new tank with a larger capacity. Replacement tanks can be particularly useful for older vehicles or those with damaged fuel tanks.
Similar to auxiliary tanks, replacement tanks can provide up to twice the range capacity when compared to stock tanks. They are available in various sizes and configurations to fit different vehicle models and measurements. For example, a 40-gallon replacement tank is suitable for vehicles with a 60" cab-to-axle (CA) measurement, while a larger 84" CA tank caters to vehicles with a longer measurement, providing increased fuel volume.
Both auxiliary and replacement fuel tanks offer significant benefits in terms of fuel capacity and range. Auxiliary tanks provide the advantage of being an additional tank, allowing for extended range without the need to replace the existing tank. Meanwhile, replacement tanks offer a straightforward solution by providing a new, larger tank in place of the original one.
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The variety of auxiliary tank shapes and sizes
Auxiliary fuel tanks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the most common being rectangular. Aluminium is a popular material for these tanks, with some companies specialising in aluminium tanks in a range of styles. Aluminium tanks are often rectangular, but can also be found in wedge styles, L-shapes, and under toolbox styles.
The rectangular aluminium auxiliary tank is a popular option, with some companies offering these tanks in sizes ranging from 30 to 80 gallons. These tanks can be used to increase the driving range and fuel capacity of a vehicle, with some models boasting up to 75 gallons of onboard fuel.
Wedge-style aluminium tanks are another option, designed to give a custom look to full-size Dodge, Ford, and GM diesel trucks. These tanks come in standard and extreme varieties, with the extreme tanks offering an unobstructed view during hookup.
L-shaped aluminium tanks are also available and are designed for long bed diesel trucks. These tanks can be used with an over-the-rail toolbox, providing at least 9" of clearance underneath.
Another style of auxiliary tank is the under toolbox tank, which is designed to fit under an over-the-rail toolbox with at least 9" of clearance. These tanks provide a unique solution for those who want to increase their fuel capacity without sacrificing toolbox storage.
In addition to aluminium tanks, some companies offer auxiliary fuel tanks made from military-grade polymer. These tanks are designed for off-road vehicles and UTVs and come in a variety of styles, including midship direct replacement tanks, spare tire carrier aux systems, and after-axle or in-bed transfer tanks.
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Frequently asked questions
An auxiliary tank is an extra fuel tank that works in tandem with a stock OE fuel tank. It is sometimes called a "transfer" or "add-in" tank.
An auxiliary tank is plumbed into your stock factory tank. This can be done with a small 12v pump or via gravity. Most of the time, an aux tank will be mounted beneath a vehicle.
Transfer tanks are primarily used for transferring fuel to other vehicles, such as filling up an ATV or generator. Transfer tanks have to have the fuel pumped out, whereas auxiliary tanks are plumbed directly into your vehicle's fuel system.
Auxiliary tanks increase the range of your vehicle by nearly doubling the OE capacity. They also give you the freedom to fill up when you want, such as when cheaper fuel is available.
Auxiliary tanks are manufactured by companies such as RDS, Transfer Flow, and TITAN Fuel Tanks. They can be purchased from retailers such as 4truck-accessories.com, Transferflow.com, and Treadmagazine.com.
