Long-range fuel options: spare jerry cans on roof/swing-out (cheap), in-bed aux tank with transfer pump (expensive but real range).
The XJ's 20-gallon tank gives 300-400 miles depending on tire size, gearing, and right foot. For overland trips, range options are:
1. Jerry cans, NATO style (Wavian, Scepter) on a rear swing-out or roof rack. 5 gallons each. Cheap, straightforward, transferable to any vehicle. The 'jerry on the swing-out' is the canonical XJ overland setup. Cost: $50-100 per can plus the carrier. Refer to body/armor section for swing-out tire carriers.
2. In-bed transfer tank: 15-25 gallon poly or aluminum tank that sits in the cargo area, with a 12V transfer pump that fills the main tank as it depletes. Used by ranchers, oilfield workers, and serious overlanders. Total range can hit 700+ miles. Tanks: Transfer Flow ($600-1200), TruckMate. Pumps: GPI (~$150), Fill-Rite. Plumb to vent the transfer tank back to the OEM rollover valve or to atmosphere through a vapor canister.
3. Belly auxiliary tank: rare on XJs because under-body space is limited and the gas tank already occupies the rear. Possible if you delete the spare tire and run a 6-10 gallon aluminum aux tank with transfer pump. Custom fab work.
For most owners: two jerry cans on a swing-out is the answer. Doubles range, straightforward to live with, $200 total in cans and a basic carrier.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Wavian NATO jerry can 5gal | Wavian | ~$95 |
| Transfer Flow 15gal auxiliary tank | Transfer Flow | ~$1200 |
| GPI 12V transfer pump | GPI | ~$170 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.