How Far Can a 70 Series Go With Long-Range Tanks Fitted?

The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series has been an icon of remote Australian travel since its debut in 1984. Known for its bulletproof reliability and rugged simplicity, it’s the go-to rig for many travellers tackling long, dusty dirt roads, cattle stations, and mine sites — places where towns are measured in days apart, not kilometres. Pretty simple.. One common question among adventurers and remote workers alike is just how far these beasts can go when fitted with aftermarket long-range fuel tanks.

In this detailed guide, we’ll unpack the fuel range capabilities of the 70 Series once you bolt on long-range tanks from specialist suppliers like the 70 Series Store, discuss the importance of the 70 Series’ legendary build quality and repairability, and dive into real-world factors affecting distance in remote Australia. Along the way, we’ll also touch on getting your parts from Toyota dealerships and fitting into the wider aftermarket ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned outback traveller or planning your first fuel-stop-aware journey, read on to understand what makes the 70 Series a truly enduring workhorse.

Why the 70 Series is Ideal for Remote Travel

Before drilling into fuel range specifics, it’s worth revisiting why the 70 Series has been Australia’s remote workhorse for nearly four decades. The design and engineering make it exceptional for rugged adventures where reliability and repairability aren’t optional.

Longevity Since 1984: The 70 Series has been in continuous production for 40 years. It’s proven itself under the harshest Australian outback conditions, from scorching deserts to muddy rutted cattle stations. Mechanical Simplicity: The rugged inline six-cylinder engine, paired with a mechanical fuel pump and straightforward electronics, means it’s easy enough for field repairs with basic tools. Complex electronic faults are rare. Ladder Frame and Live Axles: Heavy-duty ladder frames combined with solid front and rear axles mean the chassis can absorb rough terrain and payload without flexing or breaking—a critical factor in remote reliability. Proven Repairability: With decades of field experience, mechanics and station-hands know exactly what breaks and how to fix it—be it a fuel line leak, front diff bearing, or steering box adjust.

Put simply, these features mean the 70 Series is more than just a transport machine; it’s a mobile base camp, carrying fuel, supplies, and sometimes lives safely across extremes where help is hundreds of kilometres away.

Fuel Range: Stock vs. Long-Range Tanks

One of the biggest constraints in remote travel is fuel availability. In many parts of WA and the NT, you’re talking hundreds of kilometres between the last servo and the next one. That’s where aftermarket long-range tanks come in.

Stock Fuel Capacity and Range

Model Standard Tank Capacity (L) Average Fuel Consumption (L/100km) Approximate Range (km) 79 Series (Petrol/Diesel) 90-130 L (varies with model) 11-14 (loaded) 650 - 1,180 km

The factory tanks, which usually sit between 90 and 130 litres depending on the variant, will typically give a 650km to 1,100km range under load and offroad conditions. But let’s not kid ourselves: this often falls short of distances between fuel stops in remote Australia where you have “days between towns.”

Aftermarket Long Range Tanks from 70 Series Store

This is where 70 Series Store and similar aftermarket suppliers come into their own, offering tanks that can more than double your fuel capacity, commonly topping 200-300 litres in total.

Tank Type Capacity (L) Material Approx. Additional Range (km) Side-Mount Aluminium Tank 140-180 L Aluminium 1,200 - 1,600 Rear Dual Tanks 150-200 L Steel/Composite 1,300 - 1,700

On a fully loaded 70 Series, expect a combined range of roughly 1,800 to 2,800 kilometres when fitted with long-range tanks. That can translate into 2 to 4 fuel stops on some of the lonelier corridors in Outback Australia, massively increasing travel safety and flexibility.

Real-World Factors Affecting 70 Series Fuel Range

Keep in mind, fuel consumption and range will vary widely based on several factors endemic to outback conditions:

Payload: Drilling rigs, camping gear, water and food supplies, and passengers all add weight—pushing consumption closer to 14L/100km or higher. Driving Terrain: Deep sand, rocky tracks, and constant four-wheel driving hammer fuel economy compared to highway kilometers. Vehicle Condition: Ageing injector pumps, fuel filters clogged by dusty air, or worn tyres can all affect fuel efficiency. Weather: High temperatures and strong headwinds can increase fuel burn by 10-15% or more. Driving Style: Heavy right-foots, gear slips, and idling for long periods drain fuel unnecessarily.

Understanding these variables is vital to realistic trip planning in remote Australia. A “theoretical” 2,800 km range tank setup might effectively deliver closer to 2,000 km between fills once you account for loading and conditions.

Fitting Long-Range Tanks: Purchasing and Installation Tips

While Toyota dealerships carry parts and can fit factory options, upgrading to long-range tanks usually means dipping into the aftermarket ecosystem. This is where companies like 70 Series Store step in, offering specialised fuel tanks tailored to various 70 Series models.

Some key pointers before you commit:

Get the Right Fit: Tanks are model-specific, so measure your vehicle carefully and consult experts at 70 Series Store to avoid clearance issues or fitment headaches. Material Matters: Aluminium tanks resist corrosion better in salty or muddy environments. Steel tanks offer affordability but weigh more. Check Compatibility: Make sure the tank integrates with your OEM fuel sender units and does not interfere with aftermarket suspension setups or bullbars. Professional Installation: Welding or modifying the chassis is rare but sometimes needed. Certified installers ensure safety and compliance with road regulations. Keep the Factory Tank: Most long-range setups supplement the factory tank rather than replace it. This offers a fuel reserve buffer and easier refuelling at standard pumps.

Remember, while DIY fitment is possible for the mechanically inclined, improper installation can cause fuel leaks or sensor errors—last things you want stranded 300 kilometres from the nearest town.

Common Repairs and Maintenance to Keep Your 70 Series Rolling

The beauty of the 70 Series is that common breakdowns are often simple fixes. When extending range with long-range tanks, here’s what you can realistically expect needing routine attention to:

Fuel Lines and Connectors: Aftermarket tanks increase plumbing complexity. Expect to replace rubber hoses every 5 years to avoid cracks and leaks. Sender Unit Calibration: Aftermarket tanks may need floating fuel sender recalibration for accurate gauge readings. Filter and Pump Wear: More fuel capacity means longer periods between filter changes but an increased risk of clog if fuel quality varies. Chassis and Suspension Wear: Added tank weight impacts suspension components like leaf springs and shock absorbers—keep an eye for sag and upgrade as needed.

Being proactive in these areas helps avoid roadside fixes 200km from anywhere, where “buy parts at the dealer” isn’t an option.

Final Thoughts: Fuel Range is About More Than Just Tanks

Fitting aftermarket long-range tanks on your Toyota 70 Series is one of the best investments for serious outback touring and work purposes. Thanks to the robust design and decades of proven durability first pioneered by Toyota, you can confidently expect well over 2,000 kilometres of reliable travel on a single fill with the right setup.

You know what's funny? however, it’s essential to approach this upgrade with a clear understanding of real-world factors like payload, terrain, and driving style. Fuel stops in remote Australia aren’t just atn.com.au a “top-up” but strategic checkpoints on routes where the next town may be days away.

For those ready to take the leap, 70 Series Store offers an expert aftermarket ecosystem tailored to the 70 Series lineup. Don’t hesitate to discuss your travel plans and vehicle specs with their team, and always consult your local Toyota dealership for original parts and fitment advice.

Remember, this is no place for vague claims or assumptions—the 70 Series' rugged ladder-frame chassis, simple mechanicals, and repairability have earned their reputation the hard way, over millions of kilometres across Australia’s harshest environments.

Resources & References

70 Series Store official website Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series owner’s manual and fuel consumption guides Australian Travel & Tourism Network Pty Limited – Insights on remote travel and logistics in Australia Local Toyota dealerships for genuine OEM parts and service