Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Tank Cover
What Is a CNG Tank Cover?
A compressed natural gas (CNG) tank cover is a protective shell, shield or enclosure that fits over the high-pressure cylinders on a natural gas or bi-fuel vehicle. On many pickups and vans, those cylinders sit in the truck bed or cargo area, where they are exposed to cargo, tools, road debris, moisture and everyday wear. A well-fitted cover reduces impact, friction and exposure to the tank, and it keeps the installation looking organized and clean.
Why CNG Tank Covers Matter
CNG cylinders store fuel at very high pressure, so protecting the tank and its surrounding components is an important part of responsible ownership. Covers do not replace the tank's own structural design or any required inspections, but they add a useful physical barrier. Depending on the design, a cover can also:
- Keep cargo, tools and loose gear from rubbing against or striking the cylinder, valves and fittings.
- Limit exposure to water, mud, road salt and UV light that can wear on tank surfaces and brackets.
- Leave room for tank and gauge access so fill points and indicators stay reachable.
- Give bed-mounted systems a finished, tidy appearance for fleet and work-truck use.
Types of CNG Tank Covers and Shields
Covers vary widely by application. Factory-style plastic covers and tank shields are common on light-duty pickups and cargo vans, and are often specific to bed length or cylinder size. Fabricated steel boxes and enclosures are typically used on work trucks, where the cover must also stand up to heavy loading and frequent access. Some commercial vehicles use separate top and end covers to enclose a cylinder bank.
What to Consider When Shopping
- Tank size and layout: Match the cover to your cylinder length, diameter and mounting arrangement. A 21-inch tank needs a very different enclosure than a long bed-mounted cylinder.
- Vehicle fitment: Check make, model, year and bed length, since covers are usually built for a specific installation.
- Material and finish: Steel with a durable powder coat suits demanding work environments, while molded plastic keeps weight down.
- Access and ventilation: The cover should allow inspection, gauge viewing and service access, and should not interfere with the tank or its operation.
- Hardware condition: Inspect brackets, hinges and fasteners whenever you service the fuel system, and replace worn pieces.
Featured Brand
RKI is a longtime name in work-truck equipment. The company traces its roots to a family blacksmith shop founded in 1911 and today builds truck bodies, cranes, toolboxes and other commercial truck accessories. Its steel boxes are made with durable powder-coated finishes, and RKI has offered storage products designed for trucks with bed-mounted CNG and refuel tanks. You can browse RKI compressed natural gas (CNG) tank covers for an enclosure built with commercial use in mind.
Keeping a CNG System in Good Shape
Because natural gas vehicles operate under high pressure, always follow the vehicle and cylinder manufacturer's guidance for inspection, mounting and service. If a cover is cracked, dented or no longer seats properly, replacing it promptly helps keep the tank, valves and lines protected for the long haul.