Essential Guide to Choosing and Installing Water Tanks for 4x4

Water Tanks for 4x4 Remote Touring: The Complete Buyer’s & Installation Guide

When embarking on remote 4x4 tours, one of the primary challenges is ensuring an adequate and reliable water supply. This is where water tanks for 4x4 vehicles come into play, offering vital storage solutions for adventurers venturing into areas where natural water sources are either scarce or unreliable.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about 4x4 water tanks. From understanding storage requirements to choosing the right materials and installation methods, we’ll delve into every aspect critical for those planning off-road escapades.

Why On-Board Water Storage Is Non-Negotiable

On-board water storage is an essential feature for those serious about remote touring. Water tanks for 4x4 vehicles provide a level of self-sufficiency that allows adventurers to traverse wild landscapes without worrying about water scarcity.

• Self-sufficiency: With a 40L tank, readily available, you can sustain basic hydration needs for up to 20 days.

• Safety buffer: In cases of breakdowns or prolonged weather delays, having a water reserve is indispensable.

• Multiple uses: Beyond drinking, water from these tanks can serve for cooking, personal hygiene, and even washing down your vehicle.

• Environmental responsibility: Reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles is a notable environmental benefit.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

Determining how much water you need for your 4x4 excursions is crucial. A general guideline is 3 litres per person per day for drinking, plus 2 litres for cooking and cleaning. Multiply this by the trip duration and number of passengers.

Consider the implications of carrying this water, as 1 litre equates to 1 kilogram. Ensure your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) limits are not exceeded. For instance, a 40L water tank roughly covers 20 days of basic hydration.

Tank Materials Compared

When it comes to selecting a 4x4 water tank, understanding the materials is key to making an informed choice.

• PVC Pipe Tanks: These are the most economical and lightweight option, although their durability on rugged terrains can be limited.

• Water Bladders: These conform to storage spaces but come with a risk of punctures.

• Poly (Rotomoulded) Tanks: Common in the aftermarket, these tanks are corrosion-proof and a mid-weight option.

• Stainless Steel Tanks: Offering unmatched strength and being food-grade, these tanks are heavier and come at a premium cost.

Mounting Locations & Their Trade-Offs

Choosing the correct mounting location for your 4wd water tank is as crucial as choosing the tank itself.

• Under-vehicle: This option maintains a low centre of gravity and frees cargo space, but may expose the tank to damage from rocks.

• Rear Cargo/Drawer System: Offers protection and simplicity in plumbing but can raise the centre of gravity and reduce available cargo space.

• Side Gull-wing or Canopy Wall: Provides balanced weight distribution and can integrate with other storage solutions.

Heavy-duty brackets are advisable to withstand the rigours of off-road corrugations.

Key Buying Checklist

Before purchasing a water tank, consider several factors to ensure it meets your needs.

• Assess the required capacity based on your trip profile.

• Ensure compatibility with your vehicle's make and model, along with existing modifications.

• Consider fill and dispense locations and verify the UV stability of plastics.

• Examine baffle design to mitigate sloshing and check for food-grade certification.

• Inquire about warranty lengths, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years.

• Think about the accessory ecosystem: pumps, filters, and gauges can make a significant difference in functionality.

Step-by-Step Installation Overview

The installation of a water tank for 4x4 vehicles should be precise to ensure longevity and reliability.

• Test-fit the tank and mark chassis or drill points.

• Utilise high-tensile hardware with rubber isolators to prevent electrolysis.

• Torque brackets to specifications and re-check after 100 km of corrugated roads.

• Route food-grade hoses well away from exhaust or heat sources, adding chafe guards as necessary.

• Always pressure-test the system for leaks before loading your gear.

Ensure that the tank is not mounted in areas susceptible to being hit by suspension articulation for safety.

Maintenance & Water Quality

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal water quality within your 4x4 water tank.

Flush your tank every three months with bicarb or tank-safe cleaners and sanitise annually with a diluted household bleach solution. Install sediment and carbon filters to ensure safe drinking water.

• Inspect fittings and brackets before each trip.

• Replace O-rings annually to prevent leaks and contamination.

Smart Accessories & Upgrades

Enhance your water system with accessories and upgrades:

• An electric diaphragm pump for pressurised water needs.

• Inline UV-LED purifiers for questionable creek fills.

• Bluetooth water level sensors to monitor supply conveniently.

• Consider solar shower bags for quick rinses, integrating them with solar setups.

• Carry a separate 10-litre jerry can as a backup for emergencies.

Real-World Example Build

Let’s consider a real-world example involving a dual-cab ute:

Installation of an 80L poly under-tray tank, coupled with a 12V pump and dual-stage filter, would result in a total added weight of 30 kg empty or 110 kg full. The cost breakdown could include the tank at AUD 350, the pump at AUD 120, the fittings at AUD 60, and installation costs around AUD 200.

This setup can sustain two adults for a 10-day desert track, partitioning water usage into 50L for drinking, 15L for cooking, and 15L for hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I drink from any 4wd water tanks straight away? Only if they are food-grade certified and properly cleaned.

• Do I need a pump? While gravity can suffice, a pump provides greater convenience, especially for showers.

• How do I prevent algae? Use opaque tanks, maintain regular flush routines, and utilise biocide tabs.

Conclusion

Installing reliable water tanks for 4x4 remote touring brings critical self-sufficiency, safety, and environmental benefits. Before making a purchase, be diligent in assessing tank capacity, compatibility with your vehicle, and the accessibility of accessories.

We encourage you to explore our range of products or consult with a fit-out specialist to align your setup with your off-road ambitions. Equip your vehicle today with dependable water tanks for 4x4 adventures, ensuring every journey into the wilderness is both safe and satisfying.