Stainless Steel Fuel Tank 10 X 33, 10.5 Gallon, Center Fill

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your ride with the ultimate combination of form and function. This EMPI Polished Stainless Steel Fuel Tank is engineered specifically for the air-cooled enthusiast who demands a show-quality finish without sacrificing long-term durability. Unlike standard mild steel tanks that are prone to internal corrosion and exterior rust, or polyethylene tanks that can degrade over time, this 304-grade stainless steel unit offers a mirror-like polish that will stay bright for years. Measuring 10 inches in diameter by 33 inches in length, it provides a substantial 10.5-gallon capacity, making it the perfect choice for long-distance cruising in a dune buggy, sand rail, or custom Baja Bug where fuel range is critical. The center-fill design ensures a symmetrical look for your chassis while providing easy access for refueling, whether your tank is mounted behind the rear seat or on a custom cage.

At Appletree Automotive, we know that the details matter. That is why we make sure you get more for your money; while many of our competitors sell the bare tank and force you to hunt down accessories, this kit includes both the polished fuel cap and the necessary mounting brackets. The tank features a 1/4-inch female NPT fuel outlet, allowing for easy integration with your existing fuel system or performance AN fittings. Whether you are building a trophy-winning street buggy or a rugged off-road machine, this tank provides a clean, professional appearance that stands up to the elements. Please note that while the mounting brackets are included, you will need to provide your own nuts and bolts to secure the brackets to your specific chassis or frame tabs.

FITMENT

This universal-style cylindrical tank is designed for custom air-cooled Volkswagen applications and kit cars, including but not limited to:

• Dune Buggies: Ideal for Meyers Manx, Berrien, Bounty Hunter, and other fiberglass body kits.
• Sand Rails: Fits most Chenowth, Warrior, and custom tube-frame long-travel rails.
• Baja Bugs: Excellent for custom rear-mounted or roof-rack fuel setups.
• VW Trikes: A popular choice for custom three-wheel builds requiring a sleek, polished look.
• Street Rods: Can be adapted to various non-VW custom builds requiring a 33-inch wide tank.

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade Polished Stainless Steel.
• Diameter: 10 Inches.
• Length: 33 Inches.
• Capacity: 10.5 US Gallons.
• Fill Location: Center Mount.
• Fuel Outlet: 1/4-Inch Female NPT (Threaded).
• Included Accessories: Polished Gas Cap and Two (2) Mounting Brackets.
• Finish: Mirror Polished.
• Weight: Approximately 16.6 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Sealing and Fitting Selection

When installing your fuel line into the 1/4-inch NPT outlet, always use a fuel-rated thread sealant or Teflon tape specifically designed for petroleum products. Since the tank is stainless steel, it is very easy to gall the threads if you over-tighten a steel or aluminum fitting. Hand-tighten the fitting first, then go one to two turns with a wrench to ensure a leak-free seal. If you are running a high-performance engine, consider using a 1/4-inch NPT to -6AN adapter to step up your fuel flow for maximum reliability.

2. Vibration Isolation is Key

To prevent the stainless steel brackets from marring the finish of the tank or creating annoying rattles, we highly recommend placing a thin strip of adhesive-backed rubber or a section of old inner tube between the tank body and the mounting brackets. This acts as a cushion, absorbing the vibrations from the engine and the road. This is especially important in off-road sand rails where the chassis flexes; the rubber padding ensures that the tank stays secure without the metal-on-metal friction that could lead to stress cracks over time.

3. Grounding for Safety and Accuracy

Safety should always be your top priority when installing a new fuel system. Because this tank is often mounted on painted or powder-coated frames using rubber isolation, it might not be naturally grounded. It is a smart move to run a dedicated ground wire from the tank or the mounting bracket to the main chassis. This prevents the buildup of static electricity during refueling and is absolutely essential if you plan on drilling the tank to add a fuel level sending unit, as the gauge requires a solid ground to provide an accurate reading.