Liquid Transfer Tanks, Handy for More Than Just Fuel

The truck bed: it’s a magical place Not only for every country music star looking for a good line, but also for all the hard working men and women in the world. It’s a true pillar of the truck, securing that tool box in place along with all the extra gear and miscellaneous cargo you don’t want mucking up the interior. But for those using their rig like a real work horse, it’s not uncommon to also find liquid transfer tanks perched in the bed.

Most aftermarket companies that build and sell tool boxes also supply liquid transfer tanks. That means Weather Guard, Transfer Flow, RDS, Dee Zee, Delta, TrailFX, Lund, and Better-Built all have you covered with a full range of tanks in a number of sizes and configurations. Professionals who rely on these products swear by their value but ask them just how to go about picking the right one, and you might hear crickets. No worries, we’re here to help alleviate the guess work.

So, what exactly does a liquid transfer tank do?

Well, it quite simply holds liquids. The tanks are securely fastened to the bed of the vehicle, giving drivers the capability to carry gallons and gallons of liquid safely along their desired route. It doesn’t matter if it’s a small truck or a large flat bed, there’s a liquid transfer tank option available for everyone. While they can transport more than fuel, that’s exactly what they’re used for more often than not.

Tip 1: When shopping for a transfer tank for this specific purpose, it’s critical you’re sure it’s compatible for fuel use. Some are and some aren’t and just like any situation, you don’t want to use the wrong tool for the job. It’s time to buckle down and do a little homework.

Size Matters…

Get your mind out of the gutter—we have serious work to do! The size of a liquid transfer tank is an important part of the equation because you’re tied down to the size limitations of your personal truck. Full-sized, long-bed trucks naturally can carry bigger liquid transfer tanks than mid-sized, short-bed trucks. As for the drivers with flatbeds, well, obviously they have free reign to choose whatever they want. Typical storage capacities start around 20 gallons and range all the way up over 100 gallons.

Tip 2: But again, remember that what you can carry is limited by the vehicle you’re using for the job.

Above and Beyond Professional Use

We may have started off by highlighting liquid transfer tanks for working men and women, but a number of consumers can benefit. Yes, those who are working on a job site with heavy machinery already know how useful it is to have 100 gallons of diesel fuel on hand. Long haul and transportation jobs definitely warrant the use of liquid transfer tanks as well. Off-road enthusiasts and those spending time at a track are prime candidates for liquid transfer tanks, too.

Tip 3: Recreational use that may require flammable liquids to be used, such as gasoline for vehicles like ATV’s or race cars, require a permit over 20 gallons.

What If I Don’t Need to Lug Around Extra Fuel?

Whilst on the topic of liquid capacity, you might be wondering exactly what can be carried in liquid transfer tanks other than fuel. Despite what the name implies, let’s paint a clear picture. During the homework stage, make sure to research each tank option fully, so you’re aware of any restrictions. Some will carry just gas or diesel, while others are cleared for both. Non-flammable liquids also can be transferred via these tanks. In real laymen terms, that pretty much means the sky is the limit for what can be stored within.

Tip 4: So, now you have a big ol’ liquid tranfer tank in the back of that handy, dandy pickup of yours. That’s great, really it is. But don’t you think you’re missing something? Without the proper pump system, it’s just a big box of, well, liquid. A trusted name like Fill-Rite offers a full line of pump systems, both manual and electric, to get you in action.

Aluminum vs Steel

Our final suggestion of the day, and we’ll take a 20% tip for this—you want aluminum. Steel transfer tanks are a great and sturdy option, but aluminum is a much better choice when it comes to liquid containment. It’s not going to corrode like steel does, and you won’t get rust in your liquid within time. As such, the price point grows when hopping from steel to aluminum. For example, 100 gallon steel tanks will typically run in the price range of $500, whereas an aluminum version reaches about $750. Both will do an excellent job, so don’t get us wrong. We’d just save our pennies for the peace of mind that comes with aluminum.

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