The useful differences in a portable diesel tank are in its parts: pump, nozzle, hose, filler cap and breather. This guide explains what those components do, which ones come with Joey's diesel pods, and how the listed dimensions and weight affect ute-tray fit. Start with the hardware and measure the space before choosing a size.
Pump specs in plain English
Every portable diesel tank should have a 12V pump, an automatic shut-off nozzle and a lockable fill cap. Without any one of those three, walk away.
Pump — the JD210 and JD400 use 40 LPM 12V pumps; the JD400 is self-priming, with 40 LPM specified at open flow. The JD1000 has a 56 LPM pump and a choice of 12V or 230V power. Each model lists a 4 m electrical cable.
Automatic shut-off nozzle — stops the flow when the receiving tank is full, using the same principle as a servo nozzle. All three Joey diesel models list a digital flow read bowser with the nozzle; record the reading if you track fuel use.
Hose — JD210 and JD400 have a 4 m × 3/4" delivery hose with swivel fitting; the JD400 also lists crimped fittings. JD1000 has an integrated 10 m × 3/4" hose reel. Length matters when positioning the tank beside equipment.
Filler cap, lid, breather and separator
The JD210 has a pad-lockable lid, the JD400 a pad-lockable filling cap, and the JD1000 a lockable lid. These give you a way to secure the pod when it is not in use.
The JD1000 includes an air breather and water separator, plus an integrated fuel level gauge and LED light. Those inclusions are listed for the JD1000; do not assume they are supplied on the smaller models. Check the individual product specification rather than treating every pod as the same package.
Ute fit and weight
The listed empty weights are 35 kg for JD210, 53 kg for JD400 and 120 kg for JD1000. Using the existing estimate of 0.84 kg/L for diesel, full weights are approximately 211 kg, 389 kg and 960 kg respectively. These are estimates, not a vehicle-fit guarantee.
Measure the usable tray space against JD210 at 1100 × 800 × 450 mm, JD400 at 1150 × 800 × 680 mm, and JD1000 at 1100 × 1300 × 1200 mm. Check available payload after passengers, tools and other loads; the JD1000 usually rides on a trailer or sits on a yard skid.
Choosing capacity without repeating the hardware checklist
For a capacity-led comparison of the three sizes and the jobs they suit, see 210L vs 400L vs 1000L diesel tank. For the terminology rather than the parts, start with what is a fuel pod.
What 'portable' actually means in Australia
Portable means the tank can move between jobs without fixed plumbing; it does not mean every size can be carried by hand. Plan the move around the listed unit weight, fuel load and available space rather than assuming a two-person lift suits every model. It doesn't usually mean carried on roof racks or hand-trolleyed.
Diesel's combustible (not flammable) classification keeps portable transport on a ute or trailer relatively low-paperwork at typical farm and trade volumes. Confirm with your state regulator if you're moving fuel commercially.
Frequently asked questions
Find the right portable diesel tank
Browse Joey's diesel range — 210L, 400L and 1000L pods, all ship pump-ready with 12-month warranty and Australia-wide freight.
