Everything You Need to Know About the S&B 34-Gallon Wheel Well Freshwater Tank for Ram ProMaster Vans
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If you’re diving into a camper van build, you know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right components. From plumbing systems to layout design, every decision feels critical. Today, we’re tackling one of those big decisions: selecting the best freshwater tank for your van conversion.
In this post, I’ll share why we chose the S&B 34-Gallon Wheel Well Freshwater Tank for our Ram ProMaster van build, our experience with the ordering process, how it fits into our setup, and a step-by-step guide to cleaning and preparing the tank for use.
Why We Chose the S&B Freshwater Tank
When deciding on a freshwater tank, we had a few key requirements:
Maximized Capacity
With two adults and two dogs living full-time in our van, we needed a tank with the largest capacity possible without sacrificing too much interior space. The 34-gallon size was perfect for our needs.Space Efficiency
This tank is designed specifically to fit in the passenger-side wheel well of a Ram ProMaster. Unlike universal tanks, the S&B model doesn’t require additional modifications like building a platform for support.Built-in Mounting Features
The pre-drilled mounting holes and included brackets made installation much simpler compared to other tanks on the market. We loved how it could be secured to both the van wall and floor with minimal hassle.Versatility and Durability
Pre-drilled ports for water lines, vents, and other connections gave us flexibility in our plumbing design. Plus, it’s built tough, which is critical for withstanding life on the road.
The Challenges: Backorders and Waiting
One of the biggest downsides of this tank was the wait time. We ordered it at the end of October and didn’t receive it until mid-November. While the customer service team at S&B Filters was responsive and helpful, they couldn’t guarantee an exact delivery date.
If you’re on a tight timeline, this could be a challenge. However, we found the wait worth it for the quality and functionality of the tank.
Cleaning and Prepping the Tank
Before using the tank, it’s essential to clean it thoroughly. Here’s how we plan to clean our S&B freshwater tank:
Supplies You’ll Need
White vinegar (approximately 68 oz for a 34-gallon tank)
Freshwater hose
Cleaning Process
Mix 2 oz of vinegar per gallon of water.
Fill the tank with the solution and let it sit overnight.
Drain and flush the tank with clean water.
Repeat the process one more time to ensure no lingering odors or residue.
Additional Tips
Install a water filter on your hose to keep debris out when filling the tank.
Consider adding a secondary filtration system to ensure clean drinking water.
Why We Didn’t Choose an Under-Van Tank
We also considered an under-van water tank to save interior space, but we ultimately decided against it for a few reasons:
Off-road Durability: We didn’t want to risk damaging the tank on rocky or uneven terrain.
Ease of Installation: Drilling through the van floor wasn’t something we wanted to tackle on this build.
Accessibility: An interior tank is easier to monitor, maintain, and clean.
Final Thoughts
The S&B 34-Gallon Wheel Well Freshwater Tank has been a game-changer for our Ram ProMaster build. Its size, functionality, and durability make it an excellent choice for anyone embarking on a van conversion.
Have questions about this tank, our van build, or life on the road? Drop a comment below! And if you’re enjoying our journey, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more tutorials and updates.
Join Us on Our Van Build Journey!
Thank you for being part of our van build journey! It means so much to connect with this amazing community. Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and drop your questions or suggestions in the comments—we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re interested in more how-to tutorials, van life prep tips, or a Q&A, we’re here to share content that inspires and helps you along the way. See you soon!
