Answering the need for extra range and safer fuel storage, these auxiliary fuel tanks and related accessories are designed for pickup use. The top picks below are best for pickup owners who want higher capacity, easier mounting, and safe fuel transfer. The buyers most likely to benefit include long-haul drivers, rural land managers, and enthusiasts upgrading off-road rigs. A quick summary table follows, highlighting capacity, key use, and standout feature for each product.
| Product | Capacity | Best For | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| RDS Aluminum 74551 20 Gal Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank44 | 20 Gal | Moderate-range pickups needing fitment in tight spaces | Fully welded seams and heavy-duty mounting brackets |
| RDS MFG INC Auxiliary Fuel Tank 37Gal – 71804 | 37 Gal | Medium-range hauling with flexible installation | Wide range of capacities offered by RDS |
| RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank – 69 Gallon | 69 Gal | Longer trips or heavier loads | Large capacity in a rectangular form |
| RDS MFG INC RDS 72551 91 Gal Rect Aux/Transfer Liquid Tank | 91 Gal | Maximum range and bulk transfer needs | Can transport multiple fuels and gravity feed |
| REPLACEMENTKITS.COM Universal 12″ Marine Fuel Tank Pickup Tube | 12″ (tube) | Fuel system compatibility and pickup customization | Universal fit with brass barb connector |
RDS Aluminum 74551 20 Gal Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank
The 20-gallon rectangular tank from RDS MFG INC is designed for pickups that need extra fuel capacity without excessive bulk. It features fully welded seams for durability and heavy-duty mounting brackets for secure installation. Best for mid-sized pickups needing balance between space and range. A limitation is the smaller capacity relative to larger off-road kits, making it less ideal for extended overland trips without refueling options.
RDS MFG INC Auxiliary Fuel Tank 37 Gal
With a 37-gallon capacity, this RDS tank offers a solid balance between space and range for typical full-size pickup configurations. It supports a flexible setup and is marketed as suitable for gasoline auxiliary fueling via an electric pump. Choose this if you need more capacity than a small auxiliary tank but want to keep installation manageable. Caution: ensure compatibility with your mounting brackets and clearance in your vehicle’s undercarriage.
Porotmotor Motorcycle Auxiliary Fuel Tank (500ml)
Though designed for motorcycles, this 500ml auxiliary tank demonstrates precise control and safe design for small engines. It is a good reference point for understanding compact, vented fuel tanks that can be adapted or inform ideas for auxiliary setups on compact or specialized vehicles. Best for hobbyist or small-engine tuning use rather than full-size pickups. Limitation: not suitable as a primary pickup tank for a standard pickup truck.
RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank – 69 Gallon
At 69 gallons, this tank is built for longer trips or heavier hauling demands. The rectangular profile helps maximize mounting options on many pickup models. Best for drivers needing significant extra range without stepping up to a long-bed auxiliary trailer tank. Limitation: higher capacity comes with more weight and space considerations, so verify mounting clearance and fuel pump compatibility.
RDS MFG INC RDS 72551 91 Gal Rect Aux/Transfer Tank
This large 91-gallon rectangular tank targets max-range needs and bulk transfer capabilities. It can transport various fuels and supports gravity feed for certain setups. Best for enthusiasts and commercial operators who require a substantial fuel reserve during long trips. Caution: increased size may require more complex mounting and clearance checks compared to smaller tanks.
REPLACEMENTKITS.COM Universal 12″ Marine Fuel Tank Pickup Tube
This universal pickup tube supports marine fuel tanks but provides a reference for compatible connections in larger fuel systems. Best for compatibility across different fuel tanks with standard 3/8″ external and 1/4″ internal threads. A limitation is that it’s a tube accessory rather than a complete tank, so plan a full system around it for a pickup application.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Auxiliary Tanks on Pickups
- Capacity versus space: How much extra range do you need and can your truck accommodate the tank’s footprint?
- Mounting and brackets: Is the tank designed with hardware that matches your pickup’s frame and mounting points?
- Fuel compatibility: Will the tank handle gasoline, diesel, or aviation fuels as you require?
- Transfer options: Do you need gravity feed, electric pump, or a manual siphon, and how reliable are the components?
- Vent and pressure management: Are there venting features and pressure considerations for safe operation?
- Maintenance access: Can you reach the fill, vent, and pump components for service?
- Safety and clearance: Does installation affect ground clearance, exhaust heat, or obstacle clearance?
- Installation complexity: Does the product require professional mounting or is it a DIY fitment?
FAQ
- What is the typical use case for a 20-gallon auxiliary tank on a pickup?
– It provides extra range for daily drives or light-duty trips without a heavy installation. - Is a higher-capacity tank always better for pickups?
– Not necessarily; consider space, weight, and refueling infrastructure before choosing 69 or 91 gallons. - Can an auxiliary fuel tank be transferred between vehicles?
– Some tanks are designed for flexible mounting, but verify mounting brackets and fittings for each vehicle. - What safety considerations are there for mounting an auxiliary tank?
– Ensure proper venting, secure mounting, and protection from heat sources or impacts. - Do all tanks support both gasoline and diesel?
– No; verify the product’s stated fuel compatibility before use in a given fuel system. - What maintenance is required for auxiliary tanks?
– Inspect seals and fuel lines, check mounting brackets, and replace aged hoses or fittings as needed.