Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/211068
F uel. It dictates how far we go and when we need to stop. On many days it seems there's plenty to get the job done, and on others, when time is pressing, the fuel gauge seems to fall way too quickly. Nothing seems like a bigger time waster than standing at the fuel pump. At least that's the general consensus of contractors who use their heavy-duty pickups for towing or hauling heavy loads every day. Many buyers of larger pickups wish they had a larger fuel tank than what the factory provides. Diesel fuel tanks have shrunk by at least five gallons in the past six years with the incorporation of the DPF systems and the need to have the a tank for the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). The reason for smaller fuel capacity is the DEF tank sits just forward of the fuel tank in most instances, so the OE fuel tank had to be shortened to accommodate it. Fortunately, the aftermarket holds the keys to extended range; a handful of manufacturers make and sell replacement fuel tanks that provide more capacity, some by almost double that of the stock tank. For those who travel long distances and need those extra miles, an extended-range tank means less wasted time stopping for fill-ups, which over time falls right to the bottom line: More time on the road equals more money made. In order to make this equation work, however, you must be serious about making up for lost time at the fuel pump, and keep your vehicle for some time in order to amortize the cost of the tank plus installation over the life and use of the truck. Before making the appointment (or ordering the part, if Aftermarket replacement fuel tanks can double OE capacity. Some are also heavierduty, using steel instead of plastic. you're doing the conversion yourself ), do the math just as you would with any upgrade. Make sure you can justify the cash outlay. The nice part of upgrading the OE fuel tank with an aftermarket high-capacity unit is the added capacity will help resale value when it's time to buy new. Most buyers of large pickups are of the same mind-set as you; they use them for work, and will appreciate the extra range a replacement tank provides. INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS Before you purchase an aftermarket fuel tank, consider the installation. The big question: Are you willing and able to do the swap or do you want someone to do the installation for you? Dropping a stock tank and replacing with an aftermarket version isn't rocket science. A good shop mechanic can do it with ease with the right tools, a lift and transmission jack. But if you company doesn't have a shop, then swapping out tanks can be a challenge. You'll be working with the tank retention straps, special fuel-line connections, and plumbing electrical connections (for the fuel pump and gauge sender). If you're not up for that much mechanical detail, or your shop guys' time would give a better return doing what they normally do, then it'd be best subbing the work out to a local dealer who's versed in this type of work. Typically, off-road shops, truck and trailer installation shops and local commercial truck dealerships are best at these types of swaps. As with just about any product these days, going online and checking for local dealers (using the links in this story, for example, as a good start) is the best way to begin your search. CERTIFIED TANKS Most business owners, whether in construction, utility company, municipality or landscaping, are concerned with staying compliant with federal regulations, from their operations to the work trucks. This concern also boils down to fleet vehicles; the liability exposure is definitely to be considered when making modifications to otherwise-stock company vehicles. Upgrading to a larger fuel tank isn't difficult if you have the right tools and a good mechanic. However, it can be time consuming. Replacing fuel tanks with units that don't meet Department of Transportation (DOT) or California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements could land you in hot water if your vehicles fail inspection or are involved in an incident. Those regulations may include FMVSS 301 (Federal Motor propickupmag.com PROPICKUP 41