Can Am Defender Can - The Ultimate Guide To Mounting Fuel & Utility

You’ve been there. Miles deep on a trail, the sun starting to dip, and that little voice in your head starts asking, “Did I bring enough fuel?” Your Can-Am Defender is a beast, but even beasts get thirsty. That nagging worry about range can cut a great day of riding short.

We promise this guide is your ticket to silencing that voice for good. This is the definitive can am defender can guide, where we’ll show you exactly how to select, safely mount, and maintain utility cans for fuel, water, and gear on your machine.

Get ready to dive into the best types of cans, step-by-step mounting instructions, and pro-level safety tips. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to push your adventures further than ever before.

Why a Can-Am Defender Can Setup is Your Best Friend on the Trail

Bolting a utility can to your Defender isn’t just about looks; it’s one of the most practical mods you can make. It’s about adding capability and peace of mind, transforming your rig from a weekend warrior into a true backcountry explorer.

The core benefits of can am defender can setups are all about self-sufficiency and extending your operational range, whether you’re working on a large property or exploring remote trails.

Extended Range, Extended Adventure

This is the big one. An extra 2-4 gallons of fuel might not sound like much, but it can easily mean an additional 30-60 miles of range. That’s the difference between turning back early and reaching that hidden lake or scenic overlook you’ve been aiming for.

Carrying spare fuel means you’re in control of your adventure, not the gas gauge.

On-Demand Hydration and Utility

Utility cans aren’t just for gasoline. Dedicated, color-coded water cans mean you have potable water for drinking, cooking, or cleaning up. You can even carry engine coolant or bar and chain oil if you’re running a chainsaw for trail clearing.

Secure, Rattle-Free Storage

Modern utility packs go beyond liquids. Companies now offer lockable, waterproof storage “cans” in the same form factor. These are perfect for keeping a tool kit, first-aid supplies, or recovery gear safe, dry, and securely mounted to your machine—no more tool bags bouncing around the bed.

Choosing the Right Can: Rotopax vs. Jerry Cans vs. Others

Not all cans are created equal. The right choice for your Defender depends on your needs, your budget, and where you plan to mount it. Let’s break down the most popular options.

The Rotopax Advantage: Low-Profile and Versatile

You’ve seen them everywhere for a reason. Rotopax (and similar brands) use a rotational molding process to create incredibly tough, thick-walled containers. Their key feature is their flat, stackable design and a robust, purpose-built mounting system.

Pros: Extremely durable, leak-proof, and low-profile. The mounting system is the most secure on the market, preventing rattles and vibration issues.
Cons: They are a premium option and can be pricey, especially once you add the cost of the mounts.

The Classic Jerry Can: Bulk Capacity and Durability

The old-school jerry can is a proven design. Typically made of steel or thick plastic, they offer a large capacity and a simple, effective design. They are a great choice if you need to carry a lot of fuel and have the space for them in the bed.

Pros: High capacity (typically 5 gallons), relatively inexpensive, and tough as nails.
Cons: They are bulky and can be difficult to mount securely. You’ll often need a dedicated cradle or cage to keep them from sliding and tipping over.

A Note on Eco-Friendly Can-Am Defender Can Choices

Part of being a responsible rider is minimizing our impact. A sustainable can am defender can approach is about choosing quality over disposability. Investing in a high-quality, durable can from a reputable brand like Rotopax or Wavian means you’re buying a product that will last for years, not a cheap can that will crack and leak after one season.

Properly handling fuel and using a spill-proof spout are also key parts of an eco-friendly can am defender can practice, ensuring fuel only goes where it’s supposed to: in your tank.

How to Can-Am Defender Can: A Step-by-Step Mounting Guide

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This section provides a general overview of mounting a utility pack system like a Rotopax. Always read and follow the specific instructions that come with your chosen mount and can.

Essential Tools and Hardware

Before you start, gather your tools. You’ll likely need:

Drill with a good set of drill bits
Wrench and socket set
Tape measure and a marker
The can mount hardware (e.g., Rotopax DLX Pack Mount)
Thread locker (like Loctite Blue 242) is highly recommended

Step 1: Choosing Your Mounting Location

Where you put your can is critical for balance and accessibility. Popular spots on a Defender include:

Inside the bed walls: This is the most common spot. It keeps the can secure and out of the way, preserving bed space.
On a headache rack: If you have an aftermarket rack, it’s a great, sturdy mounting point.
On a roof rack: Perfect for keeping fuel fumes out of the cab and freeing up the bed entirely.
On a spare tire carrier: Some aftermarket carriers have integrated mounting points for utility packs.

Pro Tip: Hold the can and mount in your desired location before drilling. Make sure it doesn’t interfere with your view, tailgate operation, or any other accessories.

Step 2: Installing the Mount Bracket

Once you’ve picked your spot, it’s time to drill.

Position the mount base and use your marker to mark the hole locations.
Double-check your marks! Ensure they are level and properly spaced.
Start with a small pilot hole, then step up to the final drill bit size recommended by the mount manufacturer. This prevents the bit from “walking” and ensures a clean hole.
Bolt the mount into place. Use washers on both sides to distribute the load. Apply a drop of thread locker to each bolt before final tightening to prevent vibrations from loosening them on the trail.

Step 3: Securing the Can

Attach the can to the mount. For a Rotopax, this involves placing the can over the mount base and tightening the T-handle. Tighten it until it’s snug and firm. Do not use a wrench or cheater bar to overtighten it, as this can damage the can or the mount.

Step 4: The “Shake Test” – Your Final Safety Check

This is the most important step. Grab the mounted can with both hands and try to shake it vigorously. It should feel like a solid part of the machine. If there’s any significant wiggle, rattling, or movement, go back and re-check the tightness of your mounting bolts.

Can-Am Defender Can Best Practices for Safety and Longevity

Mounting the can is only half the battle. Following this can am defender can care guide ensures your setup remains safe and reliable for years. These are the can am defender can best practices we live by at the shop.

Fuel Can Safety 101

Remember, you’re carrying flammable liquid. Treat it with respect.

Venting is Crucial: Fuel expands and contracts with temperature. On a hot day, your can may swell. Briefly loosen the cap to “burp” it and release the pressure. Do this away from any open flames or ignition sources.
Use the Right Color: Use red cans only for gasoline, blue for water, and yellow for diesel. This industry standard prevents catastrophic mix-ups.
Rotate Your Fuel: Don’t let fuel sit in a can for more than a few months. It’s best to use the fuel in your spare can and refill it every month or two to keep it fresh. Adding a fuel stabilizer can extend its life.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Before every big ride, do a quick check:

Wiggle the can to ensure the mount is still tight.
Inspect the can itself for any deep gouges or signs of cracking.
Check the cap’s rubber gasket for cracks or wear, as this is a common source of leaks.

Common Problems with Can-Am Defender Can Setups (And How to Fix Them)

Even the best setups can have issues. Here’s a look at some common problems with can am defender can systems and how to solve them.

Problem: Leaking Caps and Spouts

A leaky cap is usually caused by a dried-out or damaged rubber gasket. You can buy replacement gaskets for most major brands. Also, ensure you aren’t cross-threading the cap when you put it on.

Problem: The Can Swells Up Like a Balloon!

This is normal! It’s caused by fuel vapor pressure building up in the heat. It’s a sign that your can has a good seal. Simply loosen the cap for a second to vent the pressure. Most quality cans are designed to handle this expansion without failing.

Problem: Rattling and Loose Mounts

If your mount loosens over time, it’s almost always because thread locker wasn’t used during installation. Remove the bolts one by one, apply a drop of blue thread locker, and re-tighten them to spec. This should solve the problem for good.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Defender Can

What’s the best size can for a Defender?

For most trail riders, a 2-gallon fuel can is the sweet spot. It provides a significant range boost without adding excessive weight or taking up too much space. If you’re doing multi-day overland trips, a 4-gallon setup might be better.

Can I mount a fuel can inside the cab?

Absolutely not. This is extremely dangerous. Fuel cans will always vent flammable fumes, and having those fumes build up in an enclosed space with you is a severe fire hazard. Always mount fuel cans on the exterior of your vehicle.

How often should I rotate the fuel in my spare can?

We recommend using and refilling the fuel in your spare can every 1-2 months. If you know it will sit longer, add a quality fuel stabilizer when you fill it up. This will keep the gasoline from going bad for 6-12 months.

Are there specific mounts made for the Defender’s LINQ system?

Yes! Several aftermarket companies make clever mounting brackets that integrate directly with the Can-Am LINQ system in the bed. These offer a fantastic, drill-free installation option that is secure and easy to remove.

Equipping your Can-Am Defender with a utility can is one of the smartest, most empowering upgrades you can make. It’s about more than just carrying fuel; it’s about carrying the confidence to explore further, stay out longer, and be prepared for whatever the trail throws at you.

Follow this guide, prioritize safety, and perform regular checks on your gear. Now, get out there and put some miles on that machine. Stay safe and happy trails!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.