DW400 vs DW300 Surge Tank: Which One Fits Your Build?
By DeatschWerks | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Comparisons
Compare DeatschWerks 5.5L staged surge tanks with DW400 vs DW300 pumps. Learn which setup suits your power goals and fuel system needs.
Quick Answer
Choose the 5.5L staged surge tank with DW400 pumps if your build demands maximum fuel delivery; pick the DW300 version for a balanced, cost-effective setup that still supports serious power.
Why Staged Surge Tanks Matter
A staged surge tank keeps a steady supply of fuel to your high-pressure pump, preventing starvation during hard cornering or low fuel levels. The 5.5L capacity is a popular middle ground for street and track builds.
The main difference between these two DeatschWerks options is the pump pair: DW400 pumps flow more than DW300 pumps, which directly affects your maximum horsepower potential and fuel system headroom.
DW400 vs DW300: Flow and Power
DW400 pumps are among the highest-flowing in DeatschWerks' lineup, making them ideal for big-power builds or flex-fuel setups that need extra volume. DW300 pumps still support substantial power but with a lower flow ceiling.
The trade-off is cost and electrical draw: the DW400 version costs more and may require upgraded wiring or a dedicated fuel pump controller, while the DW300 is more budget-friendly and easier on the electrical system.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Power target: If your build exceeds roughly 700-800 wheel horsepower or uses E85, the DW400 version offers more headroom. For up to that range, DW300s are sufficient. Match pump flow to your realistic power goal, not just the maximum you dream about.
- Budget: The DW300 version is significantly cheaper, freeing up funds for other fuel system components like lines, regulators, or a controller. Consider total fuel system cost, not just the surge tank price.
- Electrical load: DW400 pumps draw more current, which may require upgraded wiring or a relay kit. DW300s are less demanding on the stock electrical system. Check your charging system and wiring before choosing the DW400 setup.
Product Facts
- 5.5 Staged Surge Tank with 3 DW400 Fuel Pumps: This 5.5L staged surge tank comes with three DW400 fuel pumps and is designed for universal fit. The DW400 pumps deliver high flow, making this setup suitable for high-horsepower builds or E85 conversions that demand more fuel volume.
5.5 Staged Surge Tank with 3 DW400 Fuel Pumps - 5.5 Staged Surge Tank with 3 DW300 Fuel Pumps: This 5.5L staged surge tank includes three DW300 fuel pumps and is built for high-performance fuel delivery. The DW300 pumps provide a strong balance of flow and cost, ideal for builds that need reliable fuel delivery without the premium price of DW400s.
5.5 Staged Surge Tank with 3 DW300 Fuel Pumps
Which One Fits Your Build?
Best for
- High-horsepower builds (700+ whp) or E85 conversions that need maximum fuel flow
- Track cars or drag cars where fuel starvation is a real risk and every drop counts
Not for
- Street builds with moderate power goals where the DW300 version offers a better cost-to-performance ratio
- Budget-conscious builds that don't need the extra flow headroom of DW400 pumps
