Long Range Fuel Tank vs Jerry Cans: The Outback Range Maths

Fuel range planning in WA is not paranoia; it is arithmetic. Fuel stops in the north and interior can be hundreds of kilometres apart, corrugations and sand can push a loaded tourer’s consumption past 15–18 L/100 km, and a closed roadhouse is always a possibility. 

When the factory fuel tanks are not enough, you have two options to increase the 4WD fuel range Outback: a jerry can vs long range tank. Here is the honest comparison between a long range fuel tank 4WD vs jerry cans on cost, safety, payload and convenience with real-range maths.

First, the Range Maths

A loaded touring 4WD that returns 10 L/100 km on the highway can easily burn 14–18 L/100 km on sand, corrugated gravel or low-range tracks. On a standard 80 L fuel tank, that turns a theoretical 800 km range into a real-world 450–550 km before keeping a safety margin.

On remote legs, planning around two-thirds of your calculated range is the sensible rule: a headwind, a detour or a stretch of soft sand can consume the rest. Just like towing gets more efficient with upgraded suspension, long-distance travelling gets easier with upgraded fuel tank storage.

Jerry Cans: Cheap, Flexible, Compromised

• Low entry cost: steel or plastic cans are cheap and available anywhere
• Flexible: carry them only on trips that need them; zero weight penalty the rest of the year
• But: 20 kg+ per full can to lift, pour and secure; decanting by funnel in wind and dust is nobody’s favourite job
• But: storage placement is a genuine safety question; fuel must never travel inside the cabin, and roof-mounted cans put 40–80 kg in the worst possible place for centre of gravity
• But: cans, holders and racks all consume payload and rack ratings

Long Range Tank: The Built-In Solution

• Replaces or supplements the factory tank with 120–180 L total capacity, plumbed into the vehicle’s own gauge and filler
• Weight sits low and central: the best location on the vehicle for handling
• No decanting, no fumes, no lifting: range becomes something you simply have
• But the fuel still weighs the same; an extra 60 L is roughly 50 kg of payload whenever it is full
• But: upfront cost is significant, typically $1,500 – $2,800 fitted depending on the vehicle

The Verdict by Use Case

Whichever route you take, remember the weight is payload either way. Consult a payload guide before committing to capacity you will rarely use. On another note, a payload increase is just a GVM upgrade away.

Sharp 4×4 supplies and fits long range tanks and quality fuel storage for the popular touring platforms. 

We also provide jerry cans and jerry can mounts. Tell us about your trips, and we will size the solution. So when on the Gibb River Road fuel does not run out on you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much extra range does a long range tank give?

A typical upgrade from 80 L to 140–150 L adds roughly 400–500 km of loaded touring range. Usually, it is the difference between refuelling on your terms and someone else’s.

Can I carry jerry cans on the roof?

You can, but it is the worst place for them: high weight hurts handling and rollover margin, and lifting 20 kg overhead is an injury waiting to happen. A rear bar or tray mount is far better.

Do long range tanks affect ground clearance?

Quality tanks are designed to factory clearance lines or better and are built from heavy-gauge steel or poly. Check the specific tank’s clearance and protection for your model.

Diesel in plastic or steel cans?

Both are fine for diesel if the cans are AS-approved and in good condition. Petrol demands more care with venting and heat, and neither belongs inside the cabin, ever.

Upgrade Your Fuel Storage Today

Looking for a long range fuel tank 4WD? Had a bad experience of running out of fuel in a deserted remote area? It is time to upgrade your fuel storage efficiently. Sharp 4X4 has everything you need, from accessories to an expert team who can give the right guidance on contacting them. Stop delaying and fix fuel storage issues today!