My fuel tank filter setup
I only have a 250 gal elevated tank (which empties quick when filling up the 2 M931 tanks
), but still use a 12v pump to push the fuel through the filters. I also use the same pump and filters to pump from drums to the tank. By the time the fuel reaches the truck, it has been filtered 4 times. To me, the major advantage of an elevated tank is that I can have a water accumulation pipe on the bottom to drain water and scale every few months. Another advantage is that you can inspect the entire tank for corrosion or leaks. Otherwise, I'd rather have a larger tank on the ground. Here are some photos of my setup.
I do like Jeepsinker's idea of having the pump after the filters and may change the setup when I next change filters. I also use the particulate filter before the water block filter, since the water block filter cartridge is so expensive.
I buy my diesel at gas stations in drums in the back of my truck or trailer (bulk rates in my area only save a nickel/gallon at best). My drum suction line has a PVC pickup pipe with a ball valve and a slant cut opening so it can set on the bottom and pick up minimal solids and water. To fill the tank, the tank drain valve is closed and the drum suction valve is opened, and the discharge line nozzle is placed in the tank fill port on the top of the tank. I keep both the tank drain and drum suction valves closed unless I am actively pumping fuel.
I also had problems with insects and dust accumulating in the fill nozzle, so used a short PVC pipe and cap to cover the nozzle.