Long range fuel tank

[VK3GJM]

Hi All,

There is quite a lot of opinion about long range fuel tanks that date back a while.

I am keen to get a view from anyone who may have installed and is Actively using it in the last 6-12 months, the Longranger 104litre tank made by Longranger (oot4wd) Newcastle.

[Tombie]

Self installed and used regularly for 4 years...
What do you want to know?

[rocket rod]

I got an Outback Accessories 84l tank which has two good features. It's gravity feed and it has a slightly better departure angle than the spare wheel in the same space. I didn't fit it myself as I reckon you'd need a hoist to do it easily.

You'll have 175l in total and that will get you about 1500km. You can go just about anywhere in Australia with that amount.

Do you have a platform rack? if you do, get a bracket to carry the spare up there and you can save $1500 on a RWC. If I had my time again this is the way I would go.

I had a larger tank on my D2 and got crease in it. Luckily it didn't rupture but if it had, 195l would have run down the creek and it would be hard to fix out in the scrub.

[shanegtr]

I've got the LRA tank in mine. Takes 100L to fill once the transfer pump has drained it. I use mine all the time at every fill up, very handy addition up here. I have removed it once to change the transfer pump that died - its mounted up behind the rear diff and I couldnt get any access to it without dropping the tank. I dont recommend reinstalling one on your own, much easier with an additional pair of hands (which I didnt have at the time....)

[VK3GJM]

Hi Tombie and other,

I normally load up the front runner with 2x 20 litres, terrible ride due to centre of gravity is high, but the location is above the passenger, thus the distributed roof load is much more forward.

A tank between or close enough at axle level will significantly change the geometry, but what does it do with a perminant extra 40 kg+ with half a tank in relation to ride renounce even when empty at the rear or full?

I do a lot of towing, 120-130kg on the ball with a Kaymar dual wheel carrier and Mitch hitch. On long trips, to keep axle weight down, I am looking to ditch the 2 rear seats to save weight.

How does the filler system fill, no issues, does it have high flow capability?

Do you carry spare fuel pump and inline filter on long trips, are they accessible without dropping the tank?

In April, we are looking at the Anna Beadell from Stuart hwy to west coast, Broom and extensive travel through the north Kimberley and then head the Savannah way to the east coast stopping at as many places possible.

I am thinking of adding an extra protection plate under the tank, the $150 might be good insurance, thus making the tank hardened?

Has your tyre pressure situation changed with more rear weight?

[shanegtr]

I cant comment on changing of the handling as mine had the tank and kaymar bar when I brought it. I can use fast fill no worries - the filler is just a twin neck jobbie so you just fill once tank after the other.


If your installing yourself then you can put the pump anyway you please. Inline filter is installed behind the inner mudguard liner - easy enough to get too.

[rocket rod]

Do you carry spare fuel pump and inline filter on long trips, are they accessible without dropping the tank?

This is the very reason I went with a gravity feed model.

[Tombie]

The additional weight is initially noticed as a slight change, but in balance if you have a Bullbar!

The ride when absolutely full is a little softer - you know you're heavier but no worse than if there was 5 bags of concrete in the boot..

I tow lots - with between 220 and 280kg on the back depending on which toy is hanging back there and have no issues at all..

The filler is replaced with a single opening but dual filler inside it (like Toyota) front for main, rear for Aux in this case. And yes, I high flow it.

The pump is a simple unit, easily replaced with vehicle in Off road height (and if I fit anyone does) - they're a sealed solid state unit - the filter is a Z153K so easy to get anywhere - I use the rear tank when fuel is remote to pre-filter to main tank (hence not a fan of the gravity feed units).

The other benefit - if you hole the main you won't lose all your fuel before you notice...
And you can filter forwards.. and pump in known quantities rather than watching the gauge sit on full for a long time - you can't be certain how quick it's going!

I certainly wouldn't add a plate under the Aux tank - they're almost unbreakable..

Tyre pressures still at placard levels +2psi all round...

[Bytemrk]

I've got the same tank as Tombie ( Except I didn't install it)

I'd totally support all of Mike's comments - the tank is tough - no need for extra plate.

I also tend to fill it regularly around town - that way the transfer pump is used regularly.

If I built another D4, this tank is one of the accessories I definitely would fit. It wasn't an accessory I was looking for - it simply came on the vehicle I bought. Now I think I'd miss having the range.

[Tombie]

This is the very reason I went with a gravity feed model.



Until you get a hole, cracked seam, pipe or primary tank..
And then before you know it all your aux fuel is gone...

Or when you fill up from an Outback pump and it's full of contaminants - using the pump and filter you improve your chances greatly of not ingesting crap to the main tank...

[VK3GJM]

Hi All,

Good honest feedback. I am going to settle on the Longranger 104ltr controlled pump fed. Have the Kaymar and dual wheel carrier already installed, the lowering of centre of gravity will be a welcome change on long trips.

I do not trust 3rd party installers, I intent to install myself, just like all other add-ons so far.

Thank you everyone.

[LandyAndy]

Any chance of pics and a DIY guide when you do the job???
Its on my bucket list.
Andrew

[DiscoJeffster]

Hi All,

Good honest feedback. I am going to settle on the Longranger 104ltr controlled pump fed. Have the Kaymar and dual wheel carrier already installed, the lowering of centre of gravity will be a welcome change on long trips.

I do not trust 3rd party installers, I intent to install myself, just like all other add-ons so far.

Thank you everyone.



I love a man who takes pride in their work and performs their own mods. Admittedly at times I've questioned my ability, but at least you know what was done so if there's an issue, you're best placed to respond.
I do all my own work, and see it as either an opportunity to save money and learn, or buy tools in lieu of labour costs. [emoji106]

[Tombie]

Hi All,

Good honest feedback. I am going to settle on the Longranger 104ltr controlled pump fed. Have the Kaymar and dual wheel carrier already installed, the lowering of centre of gravity will be a welcome change on long trips.

I do not trust 3rd party installers, I intent to install myself, just like all other add-ons so far.

Thank you everyone.



When you're ready to do it there's a few good things to know that will save effort, time and a tidier installation..

I'll post them tomorrow.

[VK3GJM]

Hi All,

Again thanks for the feedback. Will do a install video/screenshot.

Tombie, will send PM once I have the unit.

[AnD3rew]

Sorry a bit late to this. I have this tank and it has been good and would do it again. My only issue was the fuel pump,that came with it died after about a year and I replaced it and has been fine since.

It also does quite noticeably change the handling of the car for the worse when it is full.p, specially if you are towing as well and fully loaded. It is a lot of extra weight hanging behind the rear axle. If I am on a long trip I top the main tank up from the aux very regularly to move as much weight forward as I can as soon as I can, which definitely improves the handling the emptier it gets.

[DiscoMick]

Our Defender has a Long Ranger tank installed by the previous owner and it's great. No pump, just gravity. Gives 1000km range and no issues at all. Tough too.
Keeps the weight low. No handling effects I have noticed.
I do run rear airbags with 10 in them normally and 15 for the towball when towing the camper.

[VK3GJM]

Sorry a bit late to this. I have this tank and it has been good and would do it again. My only issue was the fuel pump,that came with it died after about a year and I replaced it and has been fine since.

It also does quite noticeably change the handling of the car for the worse when it is full.p, specially if you are towing as well and fully loaded. It is a lot of extra weight hanging behind the rear axle. If I am on a long trip I top the main tank up from the aux very regularly to move as much weight forward as I can as soon as I can, which definitely improves the handling the emptier it gets.

Thanks Andrew,

I do carry a fair bit of weight when out and about for 2-3 weeks at a time in remote situations. With the new tank I intend to remove the spare rear seats 6 and 7 with a combined weight of 71kg removed this should give me back some weight and handling offset.

The benefit with a long ranger tank is the centre of gravity is in far better shape then loading up the roof rack with 45-50kg, the sway inertia is far greater, thus handling anomalies are far more pronounced.

Carrying a spare pump is good, not a big cost and by no means heavy. One benefit when fitting yourself, you get to understand, learn and improve, more importantly fix it when things fail. I have learnt, electronics/mechanics can fail any time anywhere under any condition, new or slightly used.

I intent is to do as you suggested, periodically top up the main tank from aux, a good compromise, similar weight distribution is done on planes.

DiscoMick, I am surprised you do not notice any change, maybe the Defender by nature of their traditional solid axle, leaf springs provide a harder ride and the 90 odd kg does not seem a noticeable!

I have always driven IRS rear end 4WD, so I am used to much softer rides. Everything has a trade-off.

[Redback]

I know you have decided on your tank, this is for others who may want other options, we've had the Outback Accessories gravity feed tank, been great for coming up to 7years now, it's a pretty strong tank.

[shanegtr]

I wouldnt bother about carring a spare transfer pump if the long range tank has a drain plug (mine does). In the event of a failure just transfer it via the drain plug by dropping the diesel into a suitable container. It'll be messy, but saves carring spares that you may never need (thats my plan anyway)

[Tombie]

I don't carry a spare but it is only small.
What you can do is use a compressor to pressurise the aux and it will flow to the main..

The current pump supplied is very reliable - I don't worry about it.

[AnD3rew]

I don't carry a spare either, but I do carry a length of tubing with a bulb pump in it for an emergency. It would be a huge PITA to transfer any large volume with it but at least it gives me an option if I get stuck.

[Redback]

Until you get a hole, cracked seam, pipe or primary tank..
And then before you know it all your aux fuel is gone...

Or when you fill up from an Outback pump and it's full of contaminants - using the pump and filter you improve your chances greatly of not ingesting crap to the main tank...

In any of those situations you're screwed anyway, regardless of whether you have gravity feed or pump, still going to stop you, cause chances are you won't know you're pumping contaminated fuel until it's to late, although it may be better if you only have the one filler hole and you fill the aux tank then transfer that into the main and then fill the aux, but how many do this.
If you get a hole, having all that fuel in the Aux tank after the main drains, won't matter unless you can jig up something to get it to the motor, you just lose all your fuel instead of half:angel:

On long trips I carry Mr Funnel:D

Mr Funnel Fuel Filter Funnels (http://www.proquip.com.au/products/mr-funnel.html)

[Tombie]

Which is exactly what you've just confirmed [emoji6]

Yes most I know pump from Aux to Main out remotely. Gives that extra filtering.
You can also plumb in a water separator if you're inclined to do so [emoji6]

Yes, plugging the hole in the primary tank and then transferring across works very well (have done this) plug the primary leak then top back up..

And then of course - fuelling up..
I know exactly how much fuel I have in each tank all the time... I'm not a fan of the tank remaining "full" for 400km...

[VK3GJM]

Hi Gents,

Thanks for all that, very constructive. Do carry a Mr Funnel, extra screening of fuel is so important especially in very remote locations where there is low fuel churn.

[Mog60]

Do any of you guys use the Mr Funnel to transfer straight into the Disco's tank from the service station pump and if so what do you use as an adaptor so as to keep the funnel upright? I have just obtained one myself and would welcome any suggestions to avoid the mis-fuel device activating and reduce the possibility of spilling.

Pete

[Tombie]

Haven't used one yet... and fuelled up at some out of the way places...

You could easily get poor fuel from any service station in Australia. Just takes a leak to let water in. Bacteria in the tank etc...

Common travel routes even remote are usually fine...

If it gives you peace of mind then so be it..

[Redback]

Do any of you guys use the Mr Funnel to transfer straight into the Disco's tank from the service station pump and if so what do you use as an adaptor so as to keep the funnel upright? I have just obtained one myself and would welcome any suggestions to avoid the mis-fuel device activating and reduce the possibility of spilling.

Pete

Yes and yes you'll need the adaptor, the 19l per minute is probably the better one for the disco, that's around the same flow rate of the servo pump.

[Redback]

Haven't used one yet... and fuelled up at some out of the way places...

You could easily get poor fuel from any service station in Australia. Just takes a leak to let water in. Bacteria in the tank etc...

Common travel routes even remote are usually fine...

If it gives you peace of mind then so be it..

Using that theory Mike, then a gravity feed aux tank should be fine then;)

[Tombie]

Using that theory Mike, then a gravity feed aux tank should be fine then;)


Hahaha. Still other reasons not to [emoji6]

[VK3GJM]

Hi All,

ordered at the show show in Melbourne, arrived today. Let the fun begin.

will do a full install video and doc....

A surprise, dry weight is 27.41kg tank only.

Thanks for the input.

120510

[Redback]

Hi All,

ordered at the show show in Melbourne, arrived today. Let the fun begin.

will do a full install video and doc....

A surprise, dry weight is 27.41kg tank only.

Thanks for the input.

120510

What tank is it??

[VK3GJM]

Hi Baz,

The longranger 104 litre.

[Redback]

Hi Baz,

The longranger 104 litre.

That will give a nice range, can't go wrong with any of the popular Long Range tanks these days.

Will be looking forward to following the install

[shanegtr]

Funny how I earlier mentioned about transfer pump failure - mine just died last week[bighmmm] Its one of the facet type pumps pictured below, and has only lasted around 2yrs. When I first brought the disco the transfer pump was dead - same type and I replaced it with the same because they are cheap. Stupidly for me I also replaced it in the same location that it was previously, behind and above the rear diff where I cant get to with the tank in place. Im not going to bother removing the tank this time as the new pump will be able to pull diesel through the old pump no problems. And Im not putting in one of those again, going with an aeroflow black rotary pump and it will be installed somewhere nice and easy to get to.........

[Tombie]

Shane - contact them and get the newer, sealed style...

Not sure why you'd struggle to R&R the pump with the tank IN-SITU, I just throw the Disco in Extended and under I go [emoji6]

Sealed. And much better..
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/03/390.jpg

[LandyAndy]

Shane.
2 years isn't that long,guessing the diesel is harder to pump than petrol.Have you accidently left it running dry???
Andrew

[shanegtr]

Shane - contact them and get the newer, sealed style...

Not sure why you'd struggle to R&R the pump with the tank IN-SITU, I just throw the Disco in Extended and under I go [emoji6]

Sealed. And much better..
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/03/390.jpg
Well, new pump is already ordered so I wont be getting another one. I've definatly got no chance of getting my hands up to where my pump is, I've tried several times - first time I mainly had to remove the tank because I had no idea where the transfer pump was installed.


Shane.
2 years isn't that long,guessing the diesel is harder to pump than petrol.Have you accidently left it running dry???
Andrew
I would have expected longer, was never left to run dry, although it did a couple of times but never for extended periods of time

[Tombie]

Just watch the fuel flow with that Aero pump..
May just splash around the inlet and send a heap back into the rear tank.

Even the solid state ones splash around a bit..

[VK3GJM]

Had a chance to unpack and check individual items, latest offering is with the new fully sealed Facet Posi-foo pump, made in USA.

[Tombie]

Give me a quick buzz on 0468478666.
I can let you in a couple of beneficial tips!

[VK3GJM]

Thanks Tombie, shall do.

this is the first of a number of posts for installing the long ranger tank. First up is the friendly mounting of the control switch and LED readout.

I did not want to make a hole in the dash that was large and obvious. I have come up with a novel way to mount the small control panel.

i used a l myth of 25mm grey electrical conduit and conduit clip, angled the conduit clip backing and spray d the lot mat black.

with the air of a small 5mm hole on the side plastics at the A pillar I mounted the clip and tube via bolt, washer and nylock to the plastic panel. Cable routed through dash, control box will be stuck to rear of foot well plastics with high strength double sided tape.

perfect position to monitor fuel status and you have right hand access and you still look forward.

[Tombie]

You haven't run the wiring to the rear yet I hope!

[mufflerman]

I love a man who takes pride in their work and performs their own mods. Admittedly at times I've questioned my ability, but at least you know what was done so if there's an issue, you're best placed to respond.
I do all my own work, and see it as either an opportunity to save money and learn, or buy tools in lieu of labour costs. [emoji106]

here here.

[SimmAus]

here here.

Is there a prize for longest delay to a post?