Wheel Well Tank Mounts
The spare wheel well under the rear of most panel vans is a popular location for water tanks. It uses otherwise wasted space and keeps weight low.
Pros
- Uses dead space under the van
- Low centre of gravity (good for handling)
- Keeps interior space free
- Can provide 40-80L of water capacity
Cons
- Vulnerable to road debris and damage
- Can freeze in winter (no cabin heat reaches it)
- Requires cutting a hole in the floor for pipe access
- Spare wheel must be relocated
Installation
- Remove the spare wheel and carrier
- Buy or fabricate a tank to fit the well (custom 2mm HDPE tanks from CAK Tanks or direct orders)
- Fit a tank protector plate underneath (2mm aluminium)
- Run pipework through a grommet in the van floor
- Install a pump inside the van near the tank outlet
Spare Wheel Relocation
If you remove the spare, carry a tyre repair kit and compressor instead. Or mount the spare on a rear door carrier.
Recommended
CAK Tanks in Birmingham manufacture custom wheel-well tanks for most panel vans (Transit, Sprinter, Ducato). Expect to pay £150-250 for a custom tank.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
