For short bed trucks, selecting a transfer tank that fits tightly, performs reliably, and resists corrosion is essential. This guide highlights top transfer tanks suited for tight spaces, with practical features like internal baffles, secure bungs, and robust materials. Below, you’ll find a quick product summary, followed by in-depth sections that compare construction, mounting options, and overall value for everyday use in work settings and automotive applications.
| Product | Brand | Material | Capacity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEE ZEE DZ92556NB Transfer Tank | DEE ZEE | Aluminum | 125 Brite-Tread aluminum construction | Radius curve, 3 stability baffles |
| Dee Zee DZ91750S (53 gallon) Square Transfer Tank | DEE ZEE | Steel | 53 gallons | White powder coat, corrosion protection, radius curve |
| DEE ZEE DZ92556B Transfer Tank | DEE ZEE | Aluminum | 125 Brite-Tread aluminum | Clearance for fifth wheel trailers, radius curve |
| JOBOX Crescent 50 Gallon White Square Steel Liquid Transfer Tank | Jobox | Steel | 50 gallons | Internal baffles, dual mounting bungs, lifting rings |
| Aluminum Tank Industries TTR51 Rectangle Refueling Tank | Aluminum Tank Industries | Aluminum | 51 gallons | Rectangular form, compact footprint |
These options emphasize different priorities—aluminum for lighter weight, steel for rugged strength, internal baffles for smoother flow, and space-conscious shapes for short-bed compatibility. The following sections break down what each model brings to the table and where they fit best in a short-bed pickup setup.
DEE ZEE DZ92556NB Transfer Tank
The DZ92556NB uses a durable aluminum build with a 125 Brite-Tread finish, designed to withstand routine use in automotive applications. Its radius curve helps reduce weld pressure points, which can improve longevity in mobile environments. The tank includes three stability baffles to balance contents during movement and a drain plug for straightforward emptying, making it suitable for transport tasks that require quick setup and reliable drainage. This model emphasizes corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance, key considerations for a short-bed installation where space and accessibility may be constrained.
Dee Zee DZ91750S (53 gallon) Square Transfer Tank
This 53-gallon square transfer tank delivers a rugged steel construction with a white powder coat finish for corrosion resistance and a clean appearance. Its square shape helps maximize space use on a short-bed truck and aids alignment with other cargo. The radius curve eliminates weld pressure points, contributing to long-term durability in routes that involve frequent loading and unloading. With a larger capacity than compact tanks, the DZ91750S is well-suited for users who need more fuel or liquid while still requiring manageable, space-conscious dimensions.
DEE ZEE DZ92556B Transfer Tank
The DZ92556B offers a lightweight aluminum profile with Brite-Tread aluminum and an emphasis on space efficiency, including clearance for fifth wheel trailers. The radius curve is designed to minimize stress at welds, which helps prevent cracks and reduces maintenance needs. This model is ideal for fleets or individual users who must mount a transfer tank with minimal space impact while preserving load stability and easy cleaning. The combination of lightweight metal and thoughtful geometry makes it a versatile choice for short-bed configurations that demand both capacity and maneuverability.
JOBOX Crescent 50 Gallon White Square Steel Liquid Transfer Tank
JOBOX Crescent tanks emphasize internal strength and flow control with built-in baffles to reduce sloshing when moving. The 50-gallon capacity is a practical midpoint for short-bed trucks, offering a balance of usable volume without overly extending the vehicle’s length. The product includes 2-inch NPT reinforced bungs permitting pump mounting on either side, which adds mechanical flexibility in service scenarios. Built-in lifting rings simplify handling during installation and removal, beneficial for maintenance or seasonal swapping between vehicles.
Aluminum Tank Industries TTR51 Rectangle Refueling Tank
The TTR51 is a compact, rectangle-shaped 51-gallon tank designed for tight spaces on short-bed trucks. Aluminum construction reduces weight, which can improve overall handling and fuel efficiency. This model emphasizes a space-conscious footprint while maintaining sufficient capacity for refueling or transfer tasks. The dimensions indicate suitability where width, height, and length must be tightly controlled to avoid interference with cab, suspension, or hitch components during operation.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Short Bed Trucks
- Tank material: Aluminum tanks are lighter and resistant to corrosion, but steel variants can offer greater impact resistance. For short beds, weight directly affects payload and handling.
- Capacity versus space: Short-bed configurations benefit from tanks that maximize usable volume without extending beyond wheel wells. Consider typical fill needs and how often you’ll move liquid.
- Finishes and coatings: Brite-Tread aluminum and powder-coated finishes help resist corrosion in wet or salt-laden environments. Look for rust protection and ease of cleaning.
- Internal baffles: Tanks with internal baffles reduce slosh during driving and braking, improving stability and pump performance.
- Mounting options: Check for built-in lifting rings, compatible bungs, and the ability to mount a pump on either side. Ensure there is adequate clearance for fifth-wheel or towing equipment if relevant.
- Compatibility with accessories: Verify available bungs, drain plugs, and pump mounting kits to match your workflow. A well-supported pump setup can speed up operations.
- Weight distribution: Balanced loading helps maintain vehicle handling. Consider tanks with symmetrical shape or mounting patterns that align with the truck’s frame.
- Maintenance and serviceability: Consider drain plugs, ease of cleaning, and accessibility for routine inspections in tight spaces.
Comparative Considerations For Short Bed Use
- Aluminum tanks typically offer weight savings that benefit fuel economy and load handling on a short bed. They’re ideal for users prioritizing lighter builds and easier mounting.
- Steel tanks provide rugged durability and may be favored in harsh environments or when long-term impact resistance is critical. They can be heavier but may offer cost advantages in some cases.
- Rectangular and square shapes maximize available bed space and can fit better in compact configurations, though they may have fewer curves to accommodate complex frame layouts.
- Integrated features like lifting rings, internal baffles, and dual-side pump mounting add practical flexibility. Always verify these align with your mounting hardware and truck setup.
Choosing the right transfer tank for a short-bed truck requires balancing capacity, weight, and space constraints with durability and ease of use. The models above provide a range of material choices and features designed to optimize performance in tight, on-the-go scenarios. Evaluate your typical load, frequency of transport, and maintenance preferences to identify the best match.