How Does the Land Cruiser Sub Tank Work?
The sub tank in a Toyota Land Cruiser is an auxiliary fuel tank designed to increase the vehicle’s total fuel capacity. This feature is especially valuable for long-distance driving, off-road adventures, and remote travel where fuel stations may be scarce.
How the System Is Set Up
- Main Tank – The primary fuel source, connected directly to the engine’s fuel system
- Sub Tank – The secondary tank, typically mounted at the rear or under the body, is built from durable steel or alloy
- Transfer Pump – An electric pump that moves fuel from the sub tank to the main tank
- Switch Control – A dashboard switch or button allows the driver to activate the fuel transfer process manually
How It Operates
- Fuel Storage – Both tanks are filled separately, often through separate filler necks
- Fuel Transfer – When the main tank is low, the driver activates the transfer pump
- Automatic Cut-Off – Many models have a sensor system to prevent overfilling the main tank
- Fuel Gauge Function – Depending on the model, the gauge may switch to show sub tank levels when activated
Benefits of a Land Cruiser Sub Tank
- Extended Range – Perfect for expeditions in areas without reliable fuel access
- Convenience – Reduces the need for carrying fuel cans
- Safety – Built-in tanks are safer than storing loose fuel containers inside the vehicle
- Balanced Weight – Designed to maintain vehicle stability even with added capacity
Models That Commonly Feature Sub Tanks
The sub tank system is most common in Land Cruiser 70 Series, 80 Series, and some 100 Series models, particularly in markets such as Australia, Africa, and the Middle East where long-range travel is common.
The Land Cruiser sub tank is a practical, reliable, and purpose-built system that makes the SUV one of the best vehicles for overlanding and remote travel. By providing extra fuel storage, it allows drivers to explore further without worrying about frequent refueling stops.