How to Choose a Transfer Tank for Your Truck
A transfer tank can reduce trips back to a fuel source and help keep equipment moving. But choosing one by capacity alone can create clearance, payload or workflow problems. Before you order, look at the complete installed system: the tank, liquid, pump, hose, mounting hardware and any tool boxes, covers, or other items that share the bed.
1. Start with the liquid and the job
First confirm that the tank is approved for the liquid you plan to carry. The new WEATHER GUARD Transfer Tanks are designed for combustible fluid like diesel and other non-flammable liquids. The transfer tanks are not certified for flammable liquids such as gasoline, aviation fuel, and propane.
Next, estimate how much liquid your crew actually uses between refills. A larger tank can support longer work cycles, but it also adds weight, occupies more bed space and may change how the truck is used. The best capacity is the one that supports not only the fuel needs but how the entire truck is used.
2. Calculate the complete payload
The truck's payload rating applies to everything added to the vehicle, including occupants, cargo, accessories, the tank, the pump and the liquid. Find the payload information for the specific truck rather than relying on a generic model-year estimate.
Use this planning formula: installed tank weight + pump and accessory weight + liquid weight + passengers + tools and cargo = total added load. Compare the result with the truck's available payload and axle ratings. Leave a practical margin for day-to-day cargo changes.
- Use the tank's published empty weight, not an estimate.
- Calculate liquid weight using the correct density for the product and temperature range.
- Consider weight distribution and rear-axle loading, not only total payload.
- Recheck the calculation whenever the truck setup or carried liquid changes.
3. Measure the usable truck-bed space
Measure the actual bed at the intended mounting location. Record the width between the bed rails and wheel wells, available front-to-back depth and account for any other items mounted in or on the truck bed. Then account for the space needed to install and service the cap, pump, hose and fittings.
- Check clearance from wheel wells, bed rails and the front bed wall.
- Leave access to the fill cap, pump controls, filter and service points.
- Confirm compatibility with a cross-bed tool box, tonneau cover, headache rack, sliding-bed system or any other items installed in the bed.
- Verify that the selected mounting points are clear of wiring, brake lines and fuel lines below the bed.
- Review vehicle manufacturer documentation for any mounting restrictions and ensure transfer tank mounting aligns with manufacturer recommendations.
4. Choose the shape that supports the workflow
L-Shaped Transfer Tanks
An L-shaped tank maximizes fuel capacity and secure storage when paired with a cross or saddle box by utilizing the space behind and below the storage box. Verify fitment to ensure cross or saddle box depth will not interfere with the transfer tank.
Column Transfer Tanks
A column design uses a taller, narrower footprint, leaving more room in the truck bed for other equipment or gear.
Rectangular Transfer Tanks
A rectangular tank maximizes fuel capacity with a conventional footprint.
5. Compare the details beyond capacity
The WEATHER GUARD lineup uses heavy-duty steel, rounded corners, integrated mounting tabs, interior baffles, isolation mounting, a lockable vented cap and a 2-inch threaded neck. Each feature answers a different need: structural durability, easier installation, slosh control, vibration isolation, controlled venting and pump connection.
Also compare finish, warranty, service access, compatible pump components and the availability of model-specific installation instructions. White and Matte Black ARMOR TUF® Powder Coat options let buyers coordinate the tank with the truck and work environment.
Before You Order: Selection Checklist
- The liquid is explicitly approved for the selected model.
- The complete loaded system fits within payload and axle limits.
- The tank fits the measured bed with installation and service clearance.
- The shape works with tool storage, covers and other truck needs.
- Compatible pump, filter, hose, nozzle and electrical components are identified.
- Model instructions and applicable transport rules have been reviewed.
Compare WEATHER GUARD Transfer Tanks
Review the L-shaped, column and rectangular configurations, then verify the final model specifications for your truck and application.