Understanding how to siphon gas was initially associated with criminals whose singular goal is to cart away half your fuel tank. However, this skill seems to be a lifesaver, especially when you’re stranded on the highway without any gas station around.
So, imagine having a kind-hearted person offering some amount of spare fuel to help power your car until you find a fuel station to refill.
If neither you nor the other driver can siphon the fuel from the full gas tank into a gas can, then into your fuel tank, you will remain stranded perpetually. Do not panic. There’s the way out! Read on.
Understanding the Basics of Gas Siphoning
Siphoning gas is a practical method that entails moving liquid from one vessel to another using a flexible tube or hose. This process is fundamentally driven by two key forces: gravity and atmospheric pressure.
When the end of the siphon tube is situated lower than the source vessel, gravity exerts a pull on the liquid, causing it to flow downward.
At the same time, atmospheric pressure exerts force on the liquid in the source vessel, pushing it up into the siphon tube, thus aiding the transfer of fuel.
Grasping these concepts is essential for preppers, particularly in situations like fuel shortages or emergencies where access to fuel might be restricted.
Mastering the art of extracting can provide a significant advantage in maintaining self-sufficiency during critical times.
As Survivalist fosters a culture of resilience and boosts personal preparedness among its subscribers, knowing how to transfer gas effectively becomes an essential skill for anyone committed to self-reliance.
Real-world examples illustrate the importance of transferring gas during emergencies. For instance, during natural disasters, individuals have successfully extracted gasoline from vehicles to power generators or other essential equipment.
Such actions not only demonstrate the effectiveness of extraction techniques but also highlight the necessity of being prepared for unexpected situations.
A member of the Survivalist community remarked that during a recent crisis, they were able to swiftly collect resources using extraction methods, which greatly supported their emergency response efforts.
In addition to practical applications, current statistics reveal that effective extraction techniques can considerably decrease the time and effort needed to gather resources in emergencies.
For example, players in survival scenarios have reported achieving efficient fuel transfers that enhance their operational readiness.
Expert opinions highlight that grasping the mechanics of fluid transfer is not merely a useful skill but an essential one for anyone dedicated to self-sufficiency and readiness.
By honing this skill, preppers can ensure they are equipped to handle fuel-related challenges with confidence.
What Does It Mean to Siphon Gas?
When people hear “fuel siphoning,” they always associate it with an illegal act. Criminals are using this method to steal gas from other people’s cars. However, siphoning gas is not just a thief thing. It is a vital skill.
Basically, siphoning is the process of taking out gasoline from a car tank. It is usually done with the help of a tube or pipe.
It’s one of the critical skills that you should learn for survival. However, take note that it’s not an overnight skill you can gain. It requires ample knowledge and practice.
Reasons Why People Siphon Gas
As mentioned earlier, siphoning is a survival skill. However, its benefits are not exclusive only to life and death situations. There are instances where siphoning offers convenience too!
Here are some cases where your skill in siphoning fuel can be of great use:
#1. You run out of gas during a trip.
There are times when you suddenly run out of fuel when driving. That would be fine when there is a gasoline station around the area. But what will you do if there is none, or the next one is situated miles away from you?
All you need is another car that you may flag down along the highway and your siphoning skills, and then you are good to go. You need a bit of fuel that will keep you moving onto the next gas pump.
#2. A major disaster hit your area.
During the post-apocalyptic situation, gasoline will increase in demand and value. However, the disaster will most likely make this high-value commodity less accessible to the people.
This is where your skill in siphoning comes in. It will be your survival advantage and key to safely accessing other gas reservoirs.
Abandoned cars by the roadside can be a substantial source of gas. It might not seem acceptable or suitable to you, but whenever an SHTF situation kicks in, you need to prioritize the welfare of your loved ones.
Acquiring fuel means survival. It can power a generator for electricity or other machines important for your family.
It also means that after a dangerous disaster occurs, you can bring your family to a safer place along with your survival kit using your car. Siphoning gas will give you a chance to escape before another wave or aftershock happens.
#3. During freezing seasons.
It is better to empty all gas tanks of your machinery during winters, including cars, lawnmowers, and generators placed in unheated sheds or exposed outside.
There is a superior chance that your machines will not work if you cannot extract the fuel out of them.
Take note that gasoline can freeze at a specific temperature. It is because gas can undergo condensation during cold seasons. When gas turns solid, it may clog the gas lines preventing your car from starting.
Therefore, if you live in a place where winters are very harsh, we recommend you buy proper siphon devices. It is better to take this precautionary step than to let your fuel-operated devices malfunction. It may cause you a fortune to replace them.
Essential Tools for Fuel Siphoning
While the concept seems simple, having the right tools significantly improves safety, efficiency, and reduces mess. Here’s what you’ll likely need:
Siphoning Hose (Tube)
- Material: Absolutely critical. Use only tubing specifically designed for fuel. Common safe materials include:
- Polyurethane (PUR): Flexible, abrasion-resistant, good for fuel.
- Nitrile Rubber: Excellent fuel and oil resistance.
- Fluor elastomer (like Viton): Premium resistance to fuels and chemicals (more expensive).
- Diameter: 3/8 inch (10mm) to 1/2 inch (12.5mm) internal diameter is typical. Smaller diameter flows slower but may be easier to insert, larger diameter flows faster.
- Length: Needs to be long enough to reach from the lowest point you can access in the source tank to your receiving container placed below the tank. 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) is common, sometimes longer. Buy slightly more than you think you need.
- Transparency: Clear tubing allows you to easily see when fuel starts flowing and monitor the flow.
- Stiffness: Needs some rigidity to push into the tank but enough flexibility to navigate bends. Avoid extremely stiff or overly floppy tubing.
Siphon Pump (Not Strictly a “Pump” for Priming)
A manual priming device eliminates the need for dangerous mouth siphoning.
- Bulb/Squeeze Pump: A simple rubber or plastic bulb with check valves on both ends. Squeezing and releasing the bulb creates suction to draw fuel up the hose and start the flow.
- Hand-Held Piston Pump: A small, manual pump that may attach inline or to the end of the hose to create suction.
- Purpose-Built Siphon Kits: Often include a bulb pump or a two-tube hand pump mechanism, a length of fuel hose, and sometimes filter attachments or nozzle adapters. These are highly recommended for safety and ease of use.
Receiving Container(s)
- Must be certified safe for fuel storage (e.g., UL-listed or equivalent). Common types:
- Approved plastic gasoline cans (red for gasoline, yellow for diesel, blue for kerosene) with spouts and flame arrestors.
- Approved metal safety cans.
- Another vehicle’s fuel tank (verify compatibility and legality!).
- Critical Feature: The container must be grounded during filling to prevent static discharge sparks. Place it firmly on the ground – never in a vehicle bed or trunk during filling. Use dedicated grounding straps if possible and required by local regulations.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Non-Negotiable!
- Safety Glasses/Goggles: Essential protection against splashes or fumes contacting your eyes.
- Chemical-Resistant Gloves: Nitrile gloves offer good protection against gasoline for short periods; heavier-duty nitrile or neoprene are better for longer exposure or diesel. Avoid latex – it offers little protection and degrades quickly.
- Protective Clothing: Wear old clothes you don’t mind getting stained or damaged. Avoid synthetic materials that can melt or generate static easily (cotton is better). Wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure. Have dedicated shoes or boots.
Miscellaneous Supplies
- Container Funnel: Useful for guiding fuel into the receiving container without spillage, especially if the siphon hose doesn’t fit securely.
- Rags/Spill Kit: Have a generous supply of absorbent rags (designed for oil/gas) or a commercial spill kit containing absorbent pads/socks readily available to deal with drips and spills immediately.
- Emergency Water Source: Have a large supply of clean water nearby (garden hose, buckets) to rinse skin or eyes in case of accidental contact (flush eyes for at least 15 minutes).
- Fire Extinguisher: Have a Class B fire extinguisher specifically rated for flammable liquid fires easily accessible at the work site. Know how to use it before you start.
How to Siphon Gas: A Step-by-step Guide
Siphoning fuel from a car’s gas tank can be somehow tricky if you’re doing it for the first time without proper guidance. Therefore, the following steps have been put together to help you know how to siphon gas with a pump.
Step 1: Determine the location of the gas tank.
Before you begin, you need to locate the gas tank from which you want to siphon the gas. In most vehicles, the gas tank is located under the car, near the rear wheels.
If you are unsure where the gas tank is, consult your owner’s manual or do some research online. Make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any gas fumes.
Step 2: Prepare the gas can.
Get a gas can that is the appropriate size for the amount of gas you want to siphon. You can also use a funnel to make pouring the gas into the can easier.
Before you begin siphoning, make sure the gas can is clean and free of any debris. You don’t want any dirt or other contaminants getting into your gas tank.
Step 3: Prepare the hose or tubing.
Next, you need to prepare the hose or tubing that you will use to siphon the gas. Ideally, you want to use a clear hose or tubing so that you can see when the gas is flowing through it.
Cut the hose or tubing to a length that is long enough to reach from the gas tank to the gas can. Make sure the diameter of the hose or tubing is small enough to fit into the gas tank’s opening.
Step 4: Insert the hose or tubing into the gas tank.
Insert the hose or tubing into the gas tank through the opening. You may need to use a funnel to guide the hose or tubing into the opening. Make sure the hose or tubing is securely in place, and there are no kinks or bends in it that could impede the flow of gas.
Step 5: Create a vacuum.
To siphon the gas, you need to create a vacuum. There are a few different ways to do this:
- Suck on the hose or tubing: This is the most straightforward method, but it can be dangerous. You should never suck on a hose or tubing that is connected to a gas tank, as you could inhale gasoline or fumes. If you must use this method, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves, and spit out any gas that gets into your mouth.
- Use a pump: You can also use a hand pump or an electric pump to create a vacuum. Simply attach the pump to the end of the hose or tubing and pump until gas begins to flow.
- Use gravity: If the gas can is lower than the gas tank, you can use gravity to create a vacuum. Simply place the gas can on the ground and make sure it is lower than the gas tank. The gas should flow down the hose or tubing and into the gas can.
Step 6: Start siphoning.
Once you have created a vacuum, the gas should start flowing through the hose or tubing and into the gas can. If you are using the gravity method, you may need to adjust the angle of the hose or tubing to ensure that the gas flows smoothly.
Step 7: Stop siphoning.
When the gas has finished flowing, or you have siphoned the desired amount, remove the hose or tubing from the gas tank and allow any remaining gas to drain into the gas can.
Be sure to hold the hose or tubing above the gas tank until all the gas has drained out to prevent any spills or drips.
Step 8: Dispose of the gas properly.
Gasoline is a hazardous material and should be disposed of properly. Do not pour the gas down the drain or throw it in the trash. Check with your local government or waste management facility to find out how to dispose of gas in your area.
Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
When transferring gas, adhering to safety guidelines is crucial to minimize risks and ensure a safe process:
- No Smoking/Vaping/Open Flames: ABSOLUTELY NEVER. Maintain at least a 15-20 foot (5-6 meter) clearance from all ignition sources. This includes cigarettes, lighters, matches, pilot lights on water heaters or furnaces, grills, campfires, electrical tools, sparks from metal work, and vehicle engines. Fumes travel far and are heavier than air.
- Work Outdoors Only: Perform the task in a wide-open space with excellent natural ventilation and airflow to dissipate fumes rapidly. Never do this inside any structure (garage, shed, carport) or near building air intakes or basements.
- Ventilation is Vital: If possible, position the work area so a gentle breeze carries fumes away from you. Avoid stagnant air conditions. Fume inhalation can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, respiratory distress, and even more severe neurological effects. Get fresh air immediately if you feel lightheaded.
- Full PPE Required: Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and protective clothing covering arms and legs. Fuel exposure is dangerous to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Change clothes if heavily contaminated.
- Never Use Mouth Suction: UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. Accidental ingestion of gasoline is extremely toxic and potentially fatal. Use a manual priming pump designed for fuel.
- Grounding: To mitigate static electricity sparks, ensure the receiving container is placed on the ground (not on plastic, carpet, or vehicle bed). Touch bare metal on the vehicle body before touching fuel system components. Use grounding cables if available and recommended.
- Engine Off & Cool: Ensure the vehicle engine is OFF and has been off for long enough to be completely cool to the touch before attempting any fuel transfer near the tank or fuel system.
- Avoid Spills: Work slowly and methodically to prevent spills. Spilled fuel is a major fire and environmental hazard. Have absorbents ready.
- Emergency Readiness: Have a Class B fire extinguisher rated for flammable liquids immediately accessible and know how to use it. Have a large supply of clean water (garden hose, buckets) ready for rinsing skin/eyes in case of splashes. Know the location of the nearest emergency phone. Post the Poison Control Center number visibly.
- Gasoline Health Warning: Gasoline contains Benzene, a known carcinogen. Minimize skin contact and vapor inhalation as much as humanly possible. Avoid using gasoline as a cleaner. Change clothes if saturated.
FAQs.
Q: How do you siphon gas without a siphon?
Although using a siphon pump happens to be the most convenient method of siphoning fuel from a gas tank into a gas can; however, you can do without it.
Alternatively, you can use a siphon tube or water hose to extract the fuel in your gas tank. This is a simple approach if you’re wondering how to siphon gas without a pump.
This is how it works. Simply get a long hose and another short hose. Then, get a clean gas can to receive the fuel. Thereafter, insert the long hose into the gas tank and place the other end of the hose into the gas can.
Also, insert the short hose into the gas tank and stick a rag to close any open space around the hoses on the gas tank access point.
After that, blow some air into the tank through the short hose. This will increase the pressure level in the tank and cause the fuel to start flowing through the long hose into the gas can.
Q: Can you safely siphon gas?
Yes, you can safely siphon gas when you use the appropriate receptacle (gas can) and extraction material (hose tube or pump). Fuel vapors are harmful fumes that can cause health issues, hence the need to avoid inhaling them.
So, it is most appropriate to use a sealed gas can with a tight cover to receive and store fuel. Also, you must avoid sucking the fuel out through the hose tube to avoid taking some liquid into your mouth. Of course, swallowing fuel is not healthy.
Q: How do you siphon gas from one gas tank to another?
Siphoning gas from one gas tank to another requires a few materials like a gas can and a hose tube. Once you have these items, simply place the gas can near the fuel tank access point and open the tank and the can.
After that, insert the long hose tube into the gas tank and place the other end of the hose into your mouth and suck out the fuel through the hose. Ensure to use a clear (transparent) hose tube so you can see the fuel flowing through the hose.
Once you see the fuel flowing out, remove the hose from your mouth (to avoid the intake of fuel) and insert it into the gas can. Then, allow the fuel to flow through as you push the end of the hose inside the gas tank further to sustain the active flow.
Once you have sufficient fuel in the gas tank, you can reverse the fuel extraction process to get the fuel to flow from the gas can into the other vehicle’s gas tank.
Q: Can you siphon gas with a garden hose?
Yes, you can siphon gas with a garden hose; however, the hose must be tiny enough to penetrate into the gas tank and the receptacle.
Once it meets this condition, you’re good to go. So, if this is the option you have to extract some fuel for your lawnmower, it isn’t a bad idea.
Nevertheless, it is better to have the appropriate materials for the extraction of fuel in an emergency. A manual or automatic siphon pump is best for extracting fuel.
In any case, ensure to take proper precautions when implementing the process on how to siphon gas from a car, irrespective of the type of hose you’re using.
Q: What is the easiest way to drain a gas tank?
Detaching the fuel lines is the easiest way to drain a gas tank. If you have an emergency that requires draining out the fuel in your gas tank, simply run the car to a point near empty. Then, park in a safe place. After that, locate the hose at the fuel filter.
The component is usually located on a frame at the driver’s side in front of the fuel tank. Once you identify the hose, simply remove it and place a gas receptacle to receive the fuel as you drain the fluid.
There are several other ways to drain a gas tank; however, most of those approaches may not be as effective as removing the hose from the filter.
Q: Can you siphon gas from a modern car?
Siphoning gas from a modern car can be almost impossible due to the presence of anti-siphon valves designed to prevent fuel theft.
Modern cars are fitted with several devices and mechanisms that ensure safety and protection against the activities of dubious individuals.
However, it is not completely impossible to siphon fuel off a modern car’s gas tank. You simply need unique tools that are designed for this purpose and find out how to siphon gas from a car with an anti-siphon in order to engage the tools.
Nevertheless, ensure to avoid situations that may require siphoning fuel from your gas tank if you drive a modern vehicle. In any case, understanding how to siphon gas out of a newer car would be an added advantage.
Final Words
Even though some dubious individuals learn how to siphon gas out of a car for their personal gains, learning how to siphon gas in an emergency is still a highly required skill for car owners. It can be your savior when you suddenly become stranded due to insufficient fuel.
In this case, the presence of another car will only require a siphon pump or hose and a gas can to enable you to extract some fuel into your fuel tank eventually.
So, ensure to digest the step-by-step process of siphoning fuel from a gas tank into a gas can over and over again. You will be glad you did, especially in the face of unexpected and uninvited challenges.