If you've been looking into lund fuel tanks, you're likely tired of making constant stops at the gas station during long hauls. There is something incredibly frustrating about having a truck that can pull a house but can't seem to go more than 300 miles without the "low fuel" light screaming at you. Whether you're hauling a massive horse trailer, moving heavy equipment to a job site, or just road-tripping across the country, having that extra fuel capacity is a total game-changer.
Lund has been a staple in the truck accessory world for a long time, and for good reason. They aren't just making pretty chrome bits; they build stuff that actually survives the beating a working truck takes. Their fuel tanks are designed to sit in the bed of your pickup and provide either auxiliary fuel for the truck itself or a way to transfer gas to other equipment. Let's break down why these tanks are worth the investment and what you should consider before bolting one down.
Why Bother with an Extra Tank?
You might be wondering if it's really worth the bed space. For most people who use their trucks for more than just grocery getting, the answer is a resounding yes. Think about the last time you were towing a heavy load up a grade. Your MPG probably dropped into the single digits. In that scenario, a standard 26-gallon tank feels like a thimble.
With lund fuel tanks, you're essentially doubling or even tripling your range. This doesn't just save you time; it saves you money. We all know that gas prices vary wildly from one county to the next. With extra capacity, you can skip the overpriced stations near the highway exits and wait until you find a place with better rates. Plus, if you're heading into the backcountry or remote areas, that extra fuel is literally a safety net.
The Difference Between Transfer and Auxiliary Tanks
This is where a lot of people get a bit tripped up. Lund offers different configurations, and you need to know which one fits your lifestyle.
Transfer tanks are designed to carry fuel that you're going to pump into something else. Maybe you have a tractor out in the field, a skid steer on a construction site, or a couple of dirt bikes for the weekend. These tanks usually come with a mounting spot for a manual or electric pump. Keep in mind, these are generally meant for non-flammable fuels like diesel, unless they are specifically rated otherwise.
Auxiliary tanks, on the other hand, are plumbed directly into your truck's fuel system. When your main tank starts to run low, you flip a switch (or a gravity feed takes over, depending on the kit), and you're pulling from the Lund tank. It's seamless. It keeps you on the road longer without you ever having to step out of the cab. Lund makes several models that can serve these purposes, often using high-grade aluminum that won't rust out after one salty winter.
Heavy-Duty Construction That Lasts
One thing you'll notice right away about lund fuel tanks is the build quality. They typically use heavy-duty aluminum diamond plate. It looks sharp, sure, but it's mostly about durability. Aluminum is lightweight, which is important because fuel is heavy. A gallon of diesel weighs about seven pounds; if you've got a 50-gallon tank, that's 350 pounds of liquid weight alone. You don't want a heavy steel tank adding even more bulk to your payload if you can avoid it.
The diamond plate texture also adds structural rigidity. These tanks are baffled, too. If you've ever hauled a half-full water tank, you know how much that liquid sloshing around can jerk your truck. Internal baffles inside the Lund tanks prevent that "slap" of fuel, keeping your handling predictable and reducing stress on the tank's welds.
The Toolbox and Tank Combo
If you're worried about losing all your bed space, you should definitely look at the combo units. This is probably one of the smartest designs Lund offers. It's exactly what it sounds like: a fuel tank on the bottom and a functional toolbox on the top.
It's the best of both worlds. You get the extra range you need, but you still have a secure, weather-resistant place to throw your chains, straps, and tools. Since the unit sits flush or just slightly above the bed rails, it doesn't kill your rear visibility either. For a work truck, this is almost a no-brainer. It keeps the bed organized while making the truck much more capable for long-distance jobs.
Installation Isn't as Scary as It Sounds
A lot of guys get intimidated by the idea of installing lund fuel tanks, especially if it involves tapping into the fuel lines. Honestly, if you're handy with a wrench and comfortable drilling a few holes in your truck bed, it's a weekend project at most.
Most Lund tanks come with sturdy mounting tabs. You'll want to make sure you're bolting them directly to the frame or using heavy-duty reinforcing plates under the bed so the tank doesn't go flying if you hit a massive pothole. If you're doing an auxiliary setup, you'll need a specialized install kit to connect it to your filler neck. If that sounds a bit above your pay grade, any local diesel shop can knock it out in a couple of hours. It's worth doing it right the first time to avoid any leaks or pressure issues.
Safety and DOT Compliance
We have to talk about the boring stuff for a second—regulations. You can't just strap a plastic barrel in your bed and call it a day. Lund fuel tanks are built to meet or exceed safety standards. They feature reinforced bungs and pressure-relief caps to ensure that as the temperature changes, the tank doesn't turn into a balloon.
If you are using the tank for commercial purposes, you'll want to double-check the DOT (Department of Transportation) requirements for your specific state. Generally, Lund's aluminum tanks are well-regarded and legal for diesel transport, but if you're planning on hauling gasoline, you need a specific type of tank that is Permitted for that use. Always check the labels and documentation that come with your specific model.
Maintaining Your Tank
Once it's in, these things are pretty low maintenance, but you shouldn't just forget about it. It's a good idea to check the mounting bolts every few months, especially if you drive on washboard dirt roads. Vibrations can loosen almost anything over time.
Also, if you have a transfer tank with a pump, keep an eye on the filters. Fuel sitting in a tank in the sun can sometimes develop condensation. Most people run a fuel-water separator on their pump setups anyway, but just being mindful of it will save your injectors down the line. The aluminum exterior stays looking good with a simple wash, though some guys like to hit it with a bit of polish once a year to keep that diamond plate shining.
Making the Final Decision
Choosing between the various lund fuel tanks really comes down to your specific needs. Ask yourself: * How much bed space am I willing to give up? * Do I need a toolbox too? * Is this just for my truck, or am I fueling up other gear? * What is my budget for the tank plus the installation kit?
At the end of the day, you're buying peace of mind. There's a certain confidence that comes with looking at your fuel gauge and knowing you've got another 40 or 50 gallons in reserve. You stop worrying about where the next station is and start focusing on the road ahead. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time hotshot driver, adding a Lund tank is one of those upgrades that you'll probably wish you had done years ago. It turns a good truck into a long-distance machine that's ready for just about anything.