Are you tired of being the guy who always holds up the convoy, making everyone wait while you find a fuel station?

 If so, a long-range fuel tank upgrade might just be your solution. 

At TJM Northern Beaches, we've been crafting and installing fuel tanks for years, perfecting the art of extended range. 

When it comes to boosting your 4x4’s fuel capacity, you’ve got a few solid options. A secondary fuel tank is an extra tank that directly increases your vehicle's fuel storage, letting you go further between fill-ups. 

An auxiliary tank, on the other hand, transfers fuel to your main tank with the help of a pump system, ensuring you never run dry. Another great option is upgrading your existing tank to a larger size, giving you more fuel without needing additional tanks. 

Whatever your choice, TJM Northern Beaches has the right solution to keep you off the grid and exploring longer.

In this blog, we'll address common questions and concerns about secondary fuel tanks, focusing on practicalities rather than basics like what they are or how they work. 

Our tanks are the result of extensive research and development, designed to keep you off the grid longer and take you deeper into the bush than ever before. With a wide array of options, TJM Northern Beaches ensures there's a tank that fits your vehicle perfectly. Some may question the investment, wondering why not stick with jerry cans. However, our tanks can hold as much as eight jerry cans' worth of fuel.

Where are you going to pack all those jerry cans?

Not to mention the safety risk.  

Investing in a secondary tank is way more than just convenience. It's about expanding your horizons and enhancing your off-road experience. 

Let's dive into why it's worth every dollar.

What are the key benefits of a long-range fuel tank? 

When you're gearing up for those remote 4x4 adventures, the last thing you want is the constant worry of finding fuel stations. 

There are many benefits to secondary fuel tanks. Let’s look at a few. 

If you’re selective about fuel quality and where you purchase it from, like us, a secondary fuel tank allows you to wait until you reach areas with more reputable stations, often found in densely populated areas. This means you can opt for higher-quality fuel without the stress of running low in more remote locations where fuel station options are limited.

Long-range fuel tanks offer uninterrupted journeys and open up access to remote, untouched parts of the country, allowing you to explore deeper into its uncharted territories.

For instance, certain 4x4s equipped with these tanks can cover up to 1500 kilometres on a single fill-up, making epic journeys like Sydney to Adelaide and beyond entirely feasible without pit stops for fuel.

Long-range fuel tanks also eliminate the need for cumbersome jerry cans that can disrupt your vehicle’s balance and capacity.

They seamlessly integrate into your vehicle's factory settings, meaning no additional hassle once installed. I’ll go into more detail on this later on in the article.  

They're a must-have for any serious adventurer.

Steel VS Poly 

When it comes to secondary fuel tanks for your 4x4, choosing between steel and polyethylene (poly) tanks often boils down to personal preference and specific needs.

The truth is they both do the job. 

There are some nuances that we’ll look at now. 

Steel tanks are tough and durable. They shield your fuel against impacts and rough terrains. Also, they are ideal for hardcore off-roaders tackling rugged environments. However, they add weight to your vehicle, potentially affecting dynamics and fuel efficiency. On the plus side, steel tanks can be repaired if major damage occurs, providing a reliable long-term solution.

Poly tanks, on the other hand, offer a significant weight reduction, typically around 10 kg lighter than steel tanks. They are also corrosion-resistant and provide flexibility, which means they won't retain dents and are easier to install. While poly tanks might be more susceptible to minor punctures, they are relatively simple to repair with a soldering iron and some makeshift tools, even in remote locations.

Both tank types are suitable for remote off-road trips, offering their own sets of advantages. Steel tanks excel in strength and repairability, while poly tanks shine in weight reduction and ease of installation. 

At TJM Northern Beaches, we stock a variety of both steel and poly secondary fuel tanks to meet the diverse needs of ‘4x4ers’. 

Secondary fuel tanks are a major 4x4 mod. You want to ensure you make the right decision. 

If you’re thinking of adding a secondary fuel tank but are unsure it's best to come down and visit the showroom to explore which tank aligns with your vehicle and needs, 

We’ll get you all set up for uninterrupted journeys across Australia’s remote landscapes.

Installation Cost and Capacity

When it comes to choosing between replacement and extra auxiliary tanks, the options are there to beef up your fuel capacity.

Installation and pricing are pretty straightforward, and it all depends on your vehicle and available space. The best way to get an accurate price is to bring your vehicle down to the workshop or give us a call with your make and model. I can pretty much guarantee if you have a 4x4 from the past 30 years, we’ve most likely fitted a fuel tank to it. 

My advice for choosing the capacity size is to GO BIG with the largest tank your ride can handle! 

Trust me once you get a taste of the newfound freedom an upgraded fuel tank system provides, you’ll wish you went bigger. 

For some vehicles, like the 300 series Land Cruisers, you can even replace a sub-tank with a bigger one or add an extra auxiliary for serious fuel gains. 

Whether you're planning an epic road trip or just want more freedom off-road, a bigger tank means fewer stops and more exploring. 

It’s time to go walk about and do some serious roaming of Australia's vast landscapes with confidence. 

How does it fit in with your factory set-up? 

Fitting a long-range fuel tank into your 4x4 is a straightforward process, custom to your vehicle's unique setup. Whether you're opting for a replacement tank, upgrading the size of your existing tank, or adding an entirely new secondary fuel tank, will depend on the changes it’ll make to your factory set-up. 

During installation, we carefully assess your vehicle in our workshop to pinpoint the ideal placement for the tank. Our goal is to position it seamlessly so that it integrates with your vehicle's existing setup.

We make sure it's positioned where you won't even notice it.

A replacement auxiliary tank keeps your fuel gauge fuller for longer without dropping. The system also prevents overflow or overfill automatically, so no need to worry about that!

With an added auxiliary tank, transferring fuel is super easy. A two-year-old could do it. 

Instead of spending half the afternoon holding jerry cans in the summer heat, you can transfer fuel while driving. The auxiliary tank includes a pump that moves fuel to the main tank. When your main tank is low, just flick a switch to transfer the fuel. Knowing the capacities of both your original and auxiliary tanks allows you to easily calculate your mileage.

Another tip I recommend custom is to use the "distance to empty" function. After installation, set your odometer for the first few fills to get used to the new gauge readings. The tank’s different shape will read differently, but you’ll quickly adapt. The extra range you get depends on the tank size you choose, ranging from 20 to 50 litres.

Also, keep in mind Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM).

The weight of the tanks, which can be anywhere from 20 to 50 kg, plus the weight of the fuel, must be considered. If you're also installing a bull bar, it's important to discuss your vehicle's GVM to ensure everything is properly accommodated.

Upgrade your 4x4 with TJM Northern Beaches' range of fuel tanks. Whether you opt for steel or poly, bigger tanks mean fewer stops and more exploring. Don’t settle for less—choose the tank that suits your journey and experience Australia's remote terrains like never before.