Best Auxiliary Generator Fuel Tank Options for Reliable Power on the Water
When choosing an auxiliary generator fuel tank, look for durable construction, a clear fuel level indicator, and a design that fits your boat or generator setup. This guide highlights five practical options ideal for boaters and RV-style mobile power needs. Each pick is evaluated for best use case, compatibility, and potential limitations, helping you select the right tank for your outboard boats, inboard setups, or portable generator needs. The table below compares key specs at a glance.
| Product | Capacity | Best For | Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| VEVOR Marine Tank | 14.53 gal / 55 L | Outboard boats and yachts needing visible fuel gauge | Avoid prolonged direct sunlight |
| Scepter 12 Gallon | 12 gal / 45 L | Boats needing compact, portable fuel solution | Gasoline compatibility only with vented cap |
| Attwood 6 Gallon | 6 gal | Compact, EPA/CARB compliant tanks for small craft | Vent should be considered for non-vented setups |
| RDS Aluminum 20-Gallon | 20 gal | Exterior installations requiring rugged aluminum | Not designed for gasoline use |
| JJing 7 Gallon | 7 gal | Generator fuel tanks with mounting considerations | No vent valve in this model |
VEVOR Marine Tank With Visible Gauge
Capacity: 14.53 gal / 55 L. Made from high-density polyethylene to resist aging, impact, and corrosion. Includes a 9.8 ft/3 m long hose and a two-way vent cap. Features a visible fuel gauge for quick checks and a dedicated inlet and outlet to minimize spills. Best for outboard motor adventures on fishing boats or deck boats where fuel visibility and secure handling are priorities. A noted caution is to avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent aging and expansion.
- Best for boats needing a large, easy-to-see fuel tank with a long hose.
- Better for users who value a dedicated sight gauge and spill-prevention design.
Scepter 12 Gallon Portable Marine Gas Can
Capacity: 12 gal / 45 L. Compact, portable, with a 2-way vented cap to manage pressure during refueling and vapor release. Includes a built-in fuel gauge and pick-up. Compatible with diesel and ethanol-blended fuels. Best for boaters who need longer running time without adding bulk. Choose this if space is tight but you still want reliable fuel visibility and easy refueling; note that the fuel line is sold separately.
- Best for long runs on boats where space-saving is essential.
- Better for users who prioritize built-in gauge and vented cap features.
Attwood 8806LP2 EPA Certified Portable Tank
Capacity: 6 gal. EPA and CARB compliant with a built-in vacuum valve in the cap, enabling venting without manual intervention. Designed for easy use on small craft or backup power setups. Best for minimal footprint needs where regulatory compliance matters most. A caution is that its smaller size may require more frequent refueling on longer trips.
- Best for small boats and compliant power solutions.
- Better for boats prioritizing regulatory adherence and simple venting.
RDS Aluminum Auxiliary Tank – 20-Gallon
Capacity: 20 gal. Aluminum design emphasizes rugged exterior use and external mounting possibilities. The tank includes a vented fill cap and dual withdrawal tubes, with one tube suitable for diesel return use. Best for exterior installations on larger craft or stationary power setups where durability matters. Note: this tank is intended for non-gasoline use in some configurations; confirm fuel compatibility before pairing with gas-powered equipment.
- Best for rugged builds and external mounting on bigger vessels.
- Better for users needing dual withdrawal options or diesel compatibility.
JJing Universal 7 Gallon Generator Tank
Capacity: 7 gal. Aluminum fuel tank designed for compatibility with a wide range of Honda generators and other brands. Includes built-in fuel gauge and rubber grommets for mounting. Important: it does not include a vent valve, so consider your venting needs before selecting. Best for generator setups requiring a compact, lightweight tank with straightforward mounting. Choose this if you need a universal fit and are prepared to manage venting separately.
- Best for compact generator setups with broad compatibility.
- Better for users who can accommodate venting via an alternative method.
Buying Guide: Practical Considerations For Your Auxiliary Fuel Tank
Capacity versus space: Larger tanks offer longer running times but require more mounting room. Plan your deck or garage space to ensure a secure fit without interfering with operations.
Material and durability: High-density polyethylene is common for boat tanks and resists corrosion, while aluminum tanks offer rugged exterior protection for exterior mounting. Consider exposure to sun, salt, and impact.
Venting and fuel safety: Tanks with vent caps help manage pressure and reduce vapor buildup. Venting accuracy matters when using sensitive portable generators or certain fuel blends.
Fuel compatibility and regulations
Check fuel compatibility (gasoline versus diesel) and whether EPA or CARB certifications apply to your area and equipment. Some tanks are designed specifically for marine use while others target generator applications or mixed-use scenarios.
Installation and fit
Measure mounting dimensions, hole-to-hole spacing, and overall dimensions. Note any mounting brackets or grommets included, and verify it aligns with your generator or boat’s installation points.
Maintenance and care
Inspect hoses, seals, and caps for wear. Keep fuel away from direct sunlight to preserve plastic integrity, and follow recommended fill levels to minimize evaporation and spills.
FAQ
- What fuel types can these tanks hold? Answer: Most are designed for gasoline, with some models supporting diesel or blended fuels. Always verify the specific tank’s fuel compatibility before use.
- Which tank is best for small boats? Answer: Attwood 6-Gallon and Scepter 12-Gallon offer compact, portable options ideal for small to mid-sized boats.
- Do these tanks include built-in gauges? Answer: Several options include built-in gauges (VEVOR, Scepter, JJing). If not, a separate gauge may be needed.
- Is venting required for portable tanks? Answer: Venting helps prevent pressure buildup; some models include vented caps, while others do not. Plan accordingly based on your fueling setup.
- Can I mount aluminum tanks externally? Answer: Yes, aluminum tanks are designed for exterior mounting, but confirm mounting hardware compatibility and the tank’s intended use.
- Are these EPA or CARB certified? Answer: Some models are EPA or CARB certified; check the product details for compliance relevant to your location.