Truck drivers often need to travel long distances, and it can be a challenge to find gas stations that are located conveniently along their route. This is where a truck auxiliary gas tank can be very useful. It is a supplemental fuel tank that can be installed in addition to the truck’s stock tank, allowing for extended driving range without the need to stop and fill up as frequently. With a larger fuel capacity, truck drivers can save time, increase productivity, and enjoy peace of mind knowing they have enough fuel to complete their trip. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and features of a truck auxiliary gas tank.
What is a Truck Auxiliary Gas Tank?
A truck auxiliary gas tank is an additional fuel storage unit installed in pickup trucks and recreational vehicles (RVs) to provide extended driving range without the need to fill up frequently. The auxiliary tank can be made of metal or plastic and has a capacity varying from 15 gallons to 100 gallons. It works by utilizing gravity and a transfer pump to transfer fuel to the main fuel tank or to the engine.
Types of Truck Auxiliary Gas Tanks
There are various types of auxiliary gas tanks available on the market, each with unique features and benefits to suit different needs and preferences.
Wedge-Shaped Auxiliary Tanks
These are tanks that fit snugly into the corner of the truck bed near the cab, saving space for other cargo. They come in different sizes, typically ranging between 40 and 75 gallons, and require a separate fuel transfer pump to move fuel to the main tank. One of the advantages of wedge-shaped auxiliary tanks is that they are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for occasional use.
Rectangular Auxiliary Tanks
These are tanks that usually sit on the bed of the truck, taking up space intended for other cargo. They come in different shapes and sizes, ranging between 30 and 150 gallons. Some rectangular auxiliary tanks come with a built-in fuel transfer pump and a level gauge to monitor fuel levels.
L-shaped Auxiliary Tanks
These are tanks that fit into the space between the truck bed and the cab, creating a v-shape that maximizes storage capacity. They come in different sizes, typically ranging between 30 and 90 gallons, and require a separate fuel transfer pump to move fuel to the main tank. The main advantage of L-shaped auxiliary tanks is that they do not take up valuable space in the truck bed.
Benefits of Installing a Truck Auxiliary Gas Tank
There are several benefits to installing a truck auxiliary gas tank, including:
Extended Driving Range
With an auxiliary gas tank, a driver can travel long distances without having to stop frequently to refuel. This is especially helpful for truckers, travelers, and adventurers who need to travel on long stretches of roads with no fuel stations in sight.
Convenience
An auxiliary gas tank provides drivers with the convenience of not having to stop frequently to refuel. This can save time and reduce the risk of running out of gas in the middle of nowhere.
Cost Savings
With an auxiliary gas tank, drivers can take advantage of cheaper gas prices in other areas. They can also avoid paying inflated prices for gas at remote gas stations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a truck auxiliary gas tank is a valuable investment for truckers, travelers, and adventurers who need to travel long distances without worrying about frequent refueling. With several types of auxiliary gas tanks available on the market, it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Whether it’s a wedge-shaped, rectangular, or L-shaped auxiliary tank, make sure to install it properly and maintain it regularly for optimal performance and longevity.
Benefits of a Truck Auxiliary Gas Tank
There are numerous benefits associated with the installation of a truck auxiliary gas tank. These benefits are unique in their own right and make it incredibly useful for truck enthusiasts to tackle long hauls with ease. The following are ten benefits that come along with using a truck auxiliary gas tank:
1. Extended Fuel Capacity
The primary benefit of having a truck auxiliary gas tank is the extended fuel capacity it provides. This means that you can travel longer distances without having to refill, which can save you time and money. With a higher fuel capacity, you can explore new terrain and travel for extended periods without worrying about running out of fuel and finding a gas station.
2. Increased Truck Value
By installing a truck auxiliary gas tank, you are adding value to your vehicle for resale purposes. A higher value means that you can get more money when it comes time to sell your truck. Additionally, buyers who are looking for trucks with extended fuel capacities will be more interested in the vehicle, which means that you will have a larger pool of potential buyers.
3. Fewer Fuel Stops
With an auxiliary gas tank, you can cover more ground without having to stop for gas as often. This is advantageous for drivers who travel frequently, as they can spend less time refueling and more time on the road.
4. Cost Savings
An auxiliary gas tank can save you money in the long run. Rather than having to refuel at frequent intervals, you can fill up both tanks at the same time at a lower cost per gallon. This reduces fuel expenses and saves money on the road. By traveling further, you have the potential to explore new places without having to worry about the cost of fuel.
5. Convenient Refueling
In many cases, drivers face a lack of gasoline stations in remote areas. By carrying an auxiliary gas tank with you, you can gain peace of mind when driving through uninhabited territories. You’re always near a source of fuel, which eliminates the hassle of finding gas stations in unfamiliar locations. You can refill both the tanks simultaneously and continue your journey without thinking about having to refill for another couple of days.
6. Travel Flexibility
With an auxiliary gas tank for your truck, you can experience greater travel flexibility, which makes it simple for you to journey on long hauls. This can make it simple to reach destinations that were once out of reach due to fuel constraints, such as remote locations or areas with limited refueling options. As a result, you may travel long distances with greater reliability and comfort than you had before.
7. Reduced Towing Weight
A fuel-filled auxiliary gas tank can decrease the weight of towing that you have to deal with. With less weight to lug, the engine has to work less hard, which reduces possibilities of damage to the axles and transmission. This is especially useful for trucks that tow trailers on mountain roads, where the engine has to operate more efficiently in order to handle the inclines.
8. Emergency Preparedness
In case of an emergency, a spare liter or two of gasoline can be a lifesaver. An auxiliary gas tank will give you the opportunity to prepare for emergencies, such as power outages or unexpected natural disasters, which can leave you stranded on the roadside. With an auxiliary gas tank, you can keep your truck running while searching for a safe location or waiting for emergency services.
9. Improved Truck Performance
Due to the fact that an auxiliary gas tank will decrease the weight of a truck, it will enhance the vehicle’s overall performance. The truck’s mileage will improve, making it simpler to drive for long distances without feeling sluggish. With less weight to carry, the engine will operate more efficiently, resulting in enhanced fuel economy and reduced wear and tear on the vehicle’s mechanical parts.
10. Customizable Configurations
An auxiliary gas tank can be customised to meet specific requirements, such as the type of truck or fuel storage capability required. This makes it easy to purchase an auxiliary gas tank that meets your exact needs without having to worry about compatibility issues. It is also possible to install a range of auxiliary gas tanks on the same truck, which guarantees greater fuel storage and capacity for long hauls.
Types of Truck Auxiliary Gas Tanks
Trucks are widely used for long-distance travel, transporting goods, and towing. They have large fuel tanks, but sometimes they may not be sufficient for long journeys or work requirements. That’s where auxiliary gas tanks come in handy; they provide additional fuel storage capacity for extended driving range. There are different types of auxiliary gas tanks available in the market, and each has its pros and cons.
Gravity Fed Tank
A gravity-fed auxiliary tank is a simple and cheap option. It operates on the principle of the gravity-fed system, which works by transferring fuel from the auxiliary tank to the primary tank through a hose, and then to the engine. It doesn’t require a pump or electrical connections, making it easy to install and maintain.
However, it has some limitations. The fuel transfer speed is slow, and the tank must be mounted higher than the primary tank for the fuel to flow. It can lead to stability issues if the extra fuel weight is not balanced correctly. It is best suited for light-duty trucks and short trips.
Pump-Operated Tank
A pump-operated auxiliary tank uses a fuel pump to transfer fuel from the auxiliary tank to the primary tank and then to the engine. It has a faster transfer rate than gravity-fed tanks and offers increased fuel storage capacity. It can efficiently operate on any vehicle, including heavy-duty trucks, and works well for long-distance and off-road trips.
However, it requires a power source to run the pump, which can be either electrical or manual. It also adds complexity to the installation process and can be expensive compared to gravity-fed tanks. The pump may also fail, leading to fuel starvation and engine damage.
In-Bed Tank
An in-bed auxiliary tank is mounted on the bed of the truck and is connected to the primary tank through a hose. It has a high fuel capacity and offers versatility in the installation process. It can be placed in various orientations and positions depending on the truck’s bed and the user’s preference.
It is suitable for trucks that have limited undercarriage clearance and may not accommodate other types of auxiliary tanks. However, it increases the truck’s weight and affects its handling and stability. It can also reduce the bed space, limiting the cargo area.
Underbody Tank
An underbody auxiliary tank is mounted under the truck’s body frame and is connected to the primary tank through a hose. It offers a large fuel capacity and doesn’t affect the bed space, making it ideal for trucks that require full bed space for towing or hauling.
However, it can reduce the truck’s ground clearance and may not be suitable for off-road or rugged terrain. It is also pricey and requires specific installation skills to mount it securely under the truck’s body frame.
Combo Tank
A combo auxiliary tank combines the features of a pump-operated and gravity-fed system. The pump provides fuel transfer from the auxiliary tank to the primary tank, and the gravity-fed system supplies fuel from the primary tank to the engine.
It provides the benefits of both systems, including increased fuel capacity, fast fuel transfer rate, and ease of installation and maintenance. However, it can be expensive compared to other types of auxiliary tanks and requires a power source to run the pump.
| Type of Tank | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Gravity Fed Tank | Simple and cheap, easy to install and maintain | Slow fuel transfer rate, limited fuel capacity, requires mounting higher than the primary tank |
| Pump-Operated Tank | Fast fuel transfer rate, increased fuel capacity, suitable for any vehicle | Requires power source, complex installation, expensive, potential pump failure |
| In-Bed Tank | High fuel capacity, versatile installation, doesn’t affect bed space | Increases truck weight, affects handling and stability, limited truck ground clearance |
| Underbody Tank | Large fuel capacity, doesn’t affect bed space | Reduces truck ground clearance, expensive, specific installation skills required |
| Combo Tank | Benefits of both pump-operated and gravity-fed systems, fast fuel transfer rate, increased fuel capacity, easy to install and maintain | Expensive, requires power source to run the pump |
In summary, choosing the right type of auxiliary gas tank depends on your truck’s requirements, driving needs, and budget. Consider the pros and cons of each type before making a purchase decision. Don’t forget to consult with a professional mechanic or installer to ensure a safe and secure installation.
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Thanks for Reading About Truck Auxiliary Gas Tanks!
We hope that you now have a good understanding of what a truck auxiliary gas tank is, how it works and why you might need one. Whether you’re a truck owner or simply interested in learning more about vehicles, we appreciate you taking the time to read our article. Remember to check back with us for more great content, and feel free to share this article with your friends and family who might find it helpful. Happy travels!