5 Best Auxiliary Fuel Transfer Tanks for Easy Refueling

In case you want easy refueling without stressing about the next gas stop, you can’t beat a solid auxiliary tank. Start small with the 17 Gallon Aluminum Transfer Tank for light, rust-free backup. Go big with the RDS L Shaped 95 Gallon to keep bed space for gear. For a clean cab-fit, pick the RDS 71783 63 Gallon Wedge. The RDS 45 Gallon Rectangular suits tighter beds, while the RDS 69 Gallon Rectangular balances range and fit, and there’s more to help you choose right.

Best Auxiliary Fuel Transfer Tank Picks

17 Gallon Aluminum Transfer Fuel Tank (65L) 17 Gallon Rectangular Auxiliary/Transfer Fuel Tank Aluminum Fuel Cell W/Lever Compact Universal PickCapacity: 17 gal (65L)Tank shape: RectangularMaterial: 5051 aluminumVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
RDS MFG INC L Shaped Auxiliary Transfer Fuel Tank – 95 Gallon RDS MFG INC L Shaped Auxiliary Transfer Fuel Tank - Maximum CapacityCapacity: 95 galTank shape: L-shapedMaterial: AluminumVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
RDS MFG INC 71783 Auxiliary Fuel Tank 63Gal Wedge RDS MFG INC 71783 Auxiliary Fuel Tank 63Gal Wedge Truck Bed WedgeCapacity: 63 galTank shape: WedgeMaterial: AluminumVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
RDS 45 Gallon Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank RDS MFG INC 71083 Rectangular Auxiliary/Transfer Fuel Tank - 45 Slim Profile TankCapacity: 45 galTank shape: RectangularMaterial: AluminumVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank – 69 Gallon RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank - 69 Gallon High-Capacity HaulerCapacity: 69 galTank shape: RectangularMaterial: AluminumVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. 17 Gallon Aluminum Transfer Fuel Tank (65L)

    17 Gallon Rectangular Auxiliary/Transfer Fuel Tank Aluminum Fuel Cell W/Lever

    Compact Universal Pick

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    Should you be tired of cutting trips short because your main tank runs low, the 17 Gallon Aluminum Transfer Fuel Tank (65L) gives you a calm, ready backup that travels with you. You get a 30 x 17 x 7 inch rectangular tank built from lightweight, TIG welded 5051 aircraft grade aluminum, so it stays tough and resists rust.

    Next, you stay in control while you drive. You can watch fuel level with the 0 to 90 ohm sender. You hook up cleanly with 8 AN pickup, return, and flip vent fittings. Then you fill fast through the 12 bolt 1.75 inch neck, or run a remote fill hose.

    • Capacity:17 gal (65L)
    • Tank shape:Rectangular
    • Material:5051 aluminum
    • Fuel compatibility:Gasoline
    • Dimensions:30 × 17 × 7 in
    • Fit type:Universal fit
    • Additional Feature:TIG-welded 5051 aluminum
    • Additional Feature:0–90 ohm sender
    • Additional Feature:12-bolt fill neck
  2. RDS MFG INC L Shaped Auxiliary Transfer Fuel Tank – 95 Gallon

    RDS MFG INC L Shaped Auxiliary Transfer Fuel Tank -

    Maximum Capacity

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    Long trips and long workdays feel a lot less stressful whenever you’ve got extra diesel on board, and the RDS MFG INC L Shaped Auxiliary Transfer Fuel Tank gives you a big 95 gallon backup without taking over your whole truck bed. The L shape fits many truck layouts, and it measures 48 x 32 x 26 inches, so you can still haul gear.

    Next, fueling stays simple. It connects to your vehicle’s fuel tank, and diesel feeds through gravity from the bottom, so you’re not babysitting it. Want an easier setup? You can add the optional diesel install kit. In case you must use gasoline, siphon from the top with an electric pump.

    • Capacity:95 gal
    • Tank shape:L-shaped
    • Material:Aluminum
    • Fuel compatibility:Diesel (gas w/ pump)
    • Dimensions:48 × 32 × 26 in
    • Fit type:Vehicle specific
    • Additional Feature:Gravity-feed bottom outlet
    • Additional Feature:Optional diesel install kit
    • Additional Feature:Gas top-siphon capable
  3. RDS MFG INC 71783 Auxiliary Fuel Tank 63Gal Wedge

    RDS MFG INC 71783 Auxiliary Fuel Tank 63Gal Wedge

    Truck Bed Wedge

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    Built for drivers who hate watching the fuel gauge drop on long hauls, the RDS MFG INC 71783 63-gallon wedge tank gives you a calm, steady backup supply right in your truck bed. You get 63 gallons in a compact 52 x 19 x 18 inch shape that still leaves room for gear, and it weighs about 61 pounds.

    Next comes fueling control. In case you run diesel, you can gravity feed from the bottom into your truck’s tank. Should you need gasoline, you’ll siphon from the top with an electric pump. For simpler hookups, add the optional diesel install kit.

    • Capacity:63 gal
    • Tank shape:Wedge
    • Material:Aluminum
    • Fuel compatibility:Diesel (gas w/ pump)
    • Dimensions:52 × 19 × 18 in
    • Fit type:Vehicle specific
    • Additional Feature:Made in USA
    • Additional Feature:Optional diesel install kit
    • Additional Feature:Gas top-siphon capable
  4. RDS 45 Gallon Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank

    RDS MFG INC 71083 Rectangular Auxiliary/Transfer Fuel Tank - 45

    Slim Profile Tank

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    A 45-gallon “safety net” like the RDS 71083 rectangular auxiliary fuel tank fits you best in case you tow, commute long rural routes, or work jobs where the next gas station feels a little too far away. You get 45 gallons in a 57 x 9.5 x 20 inch footprint, and at 42 pounds it won’t feel like lifting a safe.

    Next, the aluminum body won’t rust, and the fully welded seams help it take daily vibration. It supports diesel or gas. Diesel gravity-feeds from the bottom, while gasoline needs a top siphon with an electric pump. For easy hookup, you can add the optional diesel install kit.

    • Capacity:45 gal
    • Tank shape:Rectangular
    • Material:Aluminum
    • Fuel compatibility:Diesel + gas (gas w/ pump)
    • Dimensions:57 × 9.5 × 20 in
    • Fit type:Vehicle specific
    • Additional Feature:Fully welded seams
    • Additional Feature:Rust-resistant aluminum
    • Additional Feature:Optional diesel install kit
  5. RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank – 69 Gallon

    RDS MFG INC Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Tank - 69 Gallon

    High-Capacity Hauler

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    Need extra range on long workdays without babysitting your fuel gauge? The RDS MFG INC 69 gallon rectangular auxiliary tank gives you that calm, steady backup. It’s built for a vehicle specific fit, and its 57 x 18 x 16 inch size sits neatly in many truck beds.

    Next comes how you’ll use it. Should you run diesel, you can gravity feed from the bottom into your main tank, and you can add the separate diesel install kit for an easy OEM style hook up. In case you carry gasoline, you’ll siphon from the top with an electric pump. Model 70326. Like new.

    • Capacity:69 gal
    • Tank shape:Rectangular
    • Material:Aluminum
    • Fuel compatibility:Diesel (gas w/ pump)
    • Dimensions:57 × 18 × 16 in
    • Fit type:Vehicle specific
    • Additional Feature:Optional diesel install kit
    • Additional Feature:Gas top-siphon capable
    • Additional Feature:OEM-tank connection ready

Factors to Consider When Choosing Auxiliary Fuel Transfer Tanks

At the time you’re choosing an auxiliary fuel transfer tank, you want it to feel like a smart upgrade, not a constant worry in the back of your mind. So you’ll match the tank capacity to your real driving and work needs, confirm it’s compatible with your fuel type, and pick a material that can take daily bumps, weather, and time. Next, you’ll measure for fitment and dimensions in your truck bed, then choose the feed method that fits how you work, at the time that’s gravity feed, a pump system, or another setup that keeps fueling simple and safe.

Tank Capacity Needs

How do you figure out the right auxiliary fuel transfer tank size without ending up with too little fuel or a tank that feels like a suitcase full of bricks? Start with your real numbers. Check your fuel use rate, then pair it with your typical miles between stops. That quick math helps you choose a capacity that actually fits your life.

Next, connect that number to your purpose. In case you take long trips, you’ll want more buffer. Should you just need an emergency reserve, a smaller tank can feel lighter and less stressful. If you power equipment, plan for steady draw. Then consider space and weight. Big tanks, like 60 plus gallons, add load, change handling, and crowd your bed. Choose enough, not extra.

Fuel Type Compatibility

Because fuel isn’t “just fuel,” you’ve got to match your auxiliary transfer tank to what you actually run, or you risk leaks, bad readings, or a refill setup that fights you every time. Start off by confirming the tank is rated for gasoline or diesel, not “either” in vague terms. Diesel setups often let you gravity feed from the bottom, so filling feels simple and steady. Gasoline usually needs top draw with an electric pump, which helps control fumes and flow. Next, check whether the tank allows only certain fueling methods, since the wrong method can invite contamination or safety trouble. Finally, verify the fuel sender unit’s resistance range, so your gauge tells the truth instead of guessing. You’ll feel calmer realizing it matches.

Material And Durability

Fuel match-ups get you the right flow and safe fueling, but the tank’s material decides whether that setup stays solid year after year. You’ll see many auxiliary fuel transfer tanks built from aluminum alloys like aircraft-grade 5051, because it stays light and fights corrosion. That matters whenever rain, road salt, and heat try to wear things down and sneak rust into your fuel.

Next, look closely at how it’s put together. TIG welding and fully welded seams help the tank act like one strong piece, so it’s less likely to crack or seep over time. In contrast, rivets and mechanical joints can loosen and invite leaks. Also, lighter aluminum makes handling and upkeep easier, so you’re not wrestling a heavy box at a time you’re already tired.

Fitment And Dimensions

Before you buy an auxiliary fuel transfer tank, take a careful look at fitment and dimensions, since a tank that’s even a little too tall, wide, or long can turn installation into a stressful puzzle. Measure your available space for length, width, and height, then double check lid clearance, bed rails, and tie down points. You’ll feel a lot calmer whenever the numbers match.

Next, pick a vehicle specific fit type whenever you can, because it saves you from cutting, drilling, or awkward shifting later. Shape matters too. A rectangular tank often packs volume neatly, while a wedge tank can hug the cab and free room behind it. Also compare capacity to size so you don’t lose needed cargo space. Finally, check packaging and shipping dimensions to avoid surprise handling headaches.

Feed Method Options

How do you want the fuel to move from your auxiliary tank to your truck, and how hands off do you want that process to feel? In case you run diesel, a gravity feed setup often lets fuel flow from the tank’s bottom into your main fuel system. That feels simple and calming because it uses fewer moving parts, so you’ll face fewer breakdown worries and less upkeep.

But in the event you carry gasoline, you’ll usually need an electric pump that pulls fuel from the top. This option gives you steady, controlled delivery, which can feel safer whenever you want precision. Still, you’ll need clean wiring, a solid power plan, and careful setup. Next, match the method to your fuel type and your truck’s fuel system design, and you’ll avoid headaches later.

Fittings And Ports

Connections are the quiet guardians of a good auxiliary tank setup, because the right fittings and ports keep fuel moving where it should and keep air and pressure under control. Whenever you’re tired and just want a clean fill up, these small parts save you from big headaches.

Start with the fuel pickup fitting. It links your fuel line to the tank, and it’s often labeled in AN sizes like 8 AN, so you can match hoses without guesswork. Next, check the vent. A fail safe flip vent lets air move in and out, so you don’t fight vacuum drag or slow flow. Then look for a fuel return port, which sends extra fuel back smoothly and helps prevent spills. Finally, confirm the fill neck size, often 1.75 inches, plus cap and remote fill hose options.

Gauge Sender Support

Although it seems like a small detail, gauge sender support is what lets you trust the fuel level reading in your auxiliary tank instead of guessing and hoping for the best. Whenever the sender matches your truck’s gauge range, like the common 0-90 ohms spec, the needle or display behaves the way you expect. That means fewer stressful moments once you’re far from a station and you need a clear answer, not a shrug.

Next, check whether the tank includes an integrated sending unit. Built-in support often saves you time, because you won’t have to hunt for adapters, splice in extra parts, or pay for recalibration. You also make maintenance easier later, since you can diagnose issues with the same gauge logic you already know. It’s peace of mind, measured in ohms.

Installation And Safety

During the period you’re adding an auxiliary fuel transfer tank, installation and safety need to come foremost, because a small mistake can turn a helpful upgrade into a mess you don’t see until you smell fuel or spot a drip. Start from matching the tank to your truck’s fuel system, so every fitting locks in tight and stays leak free. Next, you’ll want proper venting, like a fail safe flip vent, so pressure can’t build and push fuel where it shouldn’t go. Then choose a remote fill or a fill neck that fits your setup, because steady filling cuts splashes. After that, mount the tank exactly as the maker says, since shifting weight can crack lines. Finally, ground it well and favor aircraft grade aluminum to fight rust and sparks.

Automotive Staff
Automotive Staff

The Automotive Staff is a group of car enthusiasts who share a passion for cars. They enjoy great design, strong performance, and the driving experience, covering everything from everyday cars to high-performance machines.