Stainless Steel Fuel Tank 8 X 33, 7 Gallon, Center Fill

OVERVIEW

When you''re building a high-caliber sand rail, dune buggy, or custom woods buggy, the fuel system is the last place you want to cut corners. This EMPI Stainless Steel Fuel Tank is the gold standard for enthusiasts who demand both show-quality aesthetics and long-term durability. Unlike standard steel tanks that are prone to internal scaling and rustwhich inevitably clogs your carburetors or fuel injectorsthis tank is constructed from high-grade polished stainless steel. This material choice ensures that your fuel remains clean and your tank stays looking brand new, even when exposed to the harsh, corrosive environments of coastal dunes or muddy trails. The 8-inch diameter and 33-inch length provide a generous 7-gallon capacity, giving you the extra range needed for those long treks away from the trailer or gas station.

At Appletree Automotive, we know that the devil is in the details, and that''s why we choose to carry this specific EMPI kit. One of the biggest frustrations in the air-cooled world is ordering a part only to find out you need three more pieces to actually install it. While many of our competitors ship these tanks "bare," we ensure you get the essential components to get the job done right. This package includes the polished stainless steel tank, the vented filler cap, and the necessary mounting brackets. The center-fill design is ideal for symmetrical builds, providing easy access from either side of the vehicle. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration of a Meyers Manx or fabrication of a custom tube-chassis rail, this tank offers the perfect blend of form, function, and air-cooled legacy.

FITMENT

This is a universal-style fuel tank designed primarily for custom air-cooled Volkswagen applications. While it is not a direct "bolt-in" replacement for a stock Beetle or Ghia chassis, it is the industry standard for the following:

• Dune Buggies: Perfect for Meyers Manx, Empi Imp, Berrien, and other fiberglass body styles.
• Sand Rails: Fits most custom tube chassis including Chenowth, Berrien, and Warrior frames.
• Baja Bugs: Often used in the rear luggage area or mounted to a custom roll cage in race applications.
• Woods Buggies: Durable enough for off-road trail rigs and hunting buggies.
• Trikes: A popular choice for custom VW-powered three-wheelers.
• Custom Projects: Easily adaptable to any vehicle with a 33-inch wide mounting area.

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade Polished Stainless Steel for maximum corrosion resistance.
• Diameter: 8 Inches.
• Length: 33 Inches.
• Capacity: 7 U.S. Gallons.
• Fill Location: Center Fill.
• Cap Type: Vented, Polished Finish included.
• Brackets: Two stainless steel mounting brackets included.
• Outlet Size: Standard 1/4-inch NPT bung (typically located on the bottom/end for gravity feed).
• Finish: Mirror-polished for show-quality appearance.
• Part Number: TKS833C (EMPI).

PRO TIPS

1. Protect Your Finish with Rubber Isolators

When mounting your stainless steel tank to the chassis, never mount the metal brackets directly against the tank surface or the frame without a buffer. We strongly recommend using thin rubber stripping or old inner tube material between the tank and the brackets. This prevents "metal-on-metal" vibration, which can lead to unsightly scratches on the polished finish or, worse, stress fractures in the tank wall over years of hard off-road use. Secure the brackets tightly to ensure the tank cannot rotate during aggressive maneuvers.

2. Proper NPT Fitting Installation

The fuel outlet on these tanks uses National Pipe Thread (NPT). Because NPT threads are tapered to create a seal, it is vital to use a fuel-resistant thread sealant or high-quality Teflon tape designed for petroleum. However, be extremely careful not to over-apply sealant near the end of the fitting; any excess that enters the tank can break off and travel straight into your fuel pump or needle and seat, causing immediate engine performance issues. Always check for leaks after the first few heat cycles.

3. Gravity Feed and Fuel Pump Placement

If you are running a traditional carbureted setup (like dual Webers or a stock Solex), ensure your fuel pump is mounted lower than the fuel tank outlet whenever possible. Electric fuel pumps are generally much better at "pushing" fuel than "pulling" it. By utilizing gravity to keep the pump primed, you eliminate the risk of vapor lock and reduce wear on the pump motor. If you are mounting this tank high on a roll cage, ensure your fuel lines are securely routed away from moving suspension components and hot exhaust headers.