Can Am Maverick Bed Delete – The Ultimate Guide To Shedding Weight

You’ve been there. You need to get to the engine or exhaust on your Can-Am Maverick, but that bulky plastic bed is standing squarely in your way. It feels like you have to dismantle half the machine just for basic maintenance or a simple performance upgrade.

We promise there’s a better way. This guide is your complete roadmap to understanding and performing a can am maverick bed delete. It’s one of the most transformative mods you can do, and we’re here to walk you through it.

You’ll learn the incredible benefits, get a step-by-step installation guide, discover how to avoid common pitfalls, and see why this mod is a game-changer for serious riders and DIY mechanics alike.

What Exactly Is a Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete (And Why Bother)?

At its core, a bed delete involves removing the factory plastic cargo bed from the rear of your Can-Am Maverick X3, R, or Trail model. In its place, you typically install a lightweight aluminum or steel framework.

This isn’t just about looks. The stock bed, while functional for light cargo, creates a massive barrier. It traps heat, adds unnecessary weight high up on the chassis, and makes accessing critical components a frustrating, time-consuming chore.

By removing it, you’re fundamentally changing the machine’s serviceability and performance profile. Think of it as opening up the heart of your Maverick for easier tuning, quicker repairs, and a more aggressive, race-inspired look.

Unlocking Performance: The Benefits of a Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete

So, why go through the trouble of pulling off a major factory component? The advantages are immediate and significant, touching everything from handling to maintenance. Here are the key benefits of a can am maverick bed delete that get riders excited.

Drastic Weight Reduction: The factory bed is surprisingly heavy. Removing it can shed 25-40 pounds from a high and rearward position on your UTV. This lowers the center of gravity, improving stability in corners and reducing body roll.
Unbeatable Engine Access: This is the number one reason for many. Need to check your spark plugs, clean your clutches, or inspect your turbo? With a bed delete, these tasks go from a one-hour headache to a five-minute check.
Improved Cooling: The stock bed acts like a blanket, trapping immense heat around your engine, exhaust, and intercooler (on turbo models). A bed delete allows for massive airflow, reducing engine temperatures and helping to prevent power loss from heat soak.
More Mounting Options: Aftermarket bed delete kits often come with versatile mounting points for spare tires, tool bags, RotopaX fuel/water cans, and other essential gear. You can customize your storage for your specific riding needs.
Race-Ready Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, it looks incredible. A bed delete gives your Maverick an aggressive, purpose-built appearance that screams performance and capability.

Your Step-by-Step Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete Guide

Ready to get your hands dirty? This process is straightforward for a confident DIYer. Here’s how to can am maverick bed delete safely and effectively. Always consult the specific instructions that come with your chosen aftermarket kit, as steps can vary slightly.

Tools and Parts Needed

Before you start, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the job smoother.

A good socket set (metric) with extensions
Torx bit set (Can-Am loves Torx bolts)
Plastic trim removal tools
A drill (for removing plastic rivets)
Your new bed delete kit (frame, hardware, etc.)
Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1: The Teardown – Removing the Factory Bed

First, give your Maverick a good wash, especially the rear end. Working on a clean machine is always better. Now, let’s get that stock bed off.

Disconnect the Tail Lights: Reach under the rear fenders and unplug the wiring harnesses connected to each tail light.
Remove the Rear Fascia: This is the plastic panel surrounding your tail lights. You’ll find a series of Torx bolts and plastic push-pins holding it in place. Carefully remove them and set the fascia aside.
Unbolt the Bed: The main bed is held on by several bolts. You’ll find them along the sides (where it meets the fenders), at the front (near the cabin), and on the rear frame supports. Systematically remove all of them.
Lift It Off: With all bolts and wiring removed, the bed should lift straight off the frame. It can be awkward, so having a friend to help is a great idea.

Step 2: Installing Your New Bed Delete Kit

With the old bed gone, you can see just how much space you’ve opened up! Now it’s time to install the new framework.

Clean the Frame: Take a moment to wipe down the exposed frame rails. This is a perfect time to inspect for any cracks or damage.
Assemble the Kit (If Needed): Some kits may require minor assembly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to bolt the main pieces together. Use a little blue Loctite on the threads for security.
Position the Frame: Place the new bed delete frame onto the Maverick’s chassis, lining it up with the factory mounting holes.
Secure the Hardware: Loosely thread in all the provided bolts first to ensure everything is aligned. Once you confirm the fit, go back and tighten everything to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specs. Do not overtighten.
Reconnect Electrics: If your kit includes relocation brackets for your tail lights, install them now and reconnect the wiring harnesses.

Common Problems with Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete (And How to Avoid Them)

While the process is generally smooth, there are a few snags you might hit. Being aware of these common problems with can am maverick bed delete projects will help you prepare and execute flawlessly.

Wiring Damage: The factory tail light wiring is often just long enough. When removing the bed, be gentle and avoid yanking on the harness. When reinstalling, ensure the wires are not pinched or stretched.
Stripped Fasteners: Can-Am bolts can be tight. Always use the correct size Torx or socket bit and apply steady, even pressure to avoid stripping the heads. A little penetrating oil on rusty bolts can help.
Mismatched Holes: In rare cases with some kits, a mounting hole might be slightly off. Don’t force it. Loosen all other bolts to allow for some wiggle room, which usually solves the issue.
Forgetting Loctite: The vibrations of off-roading will loosen bolts over time. Using a medium-strength (blue) threadlocker on your new kit’s hardware is one of the most important can am maverick bed delete best practices to ensure long-term reliability.

Best Practices for Your New Setup: A Bed Delete Care Guide

You’ve done the work, and your Maverick looks and performs better than ever. Now what? Your maintenance approach changes slightly. This can am maverick bed delete care guide will keep your setup in top shape.

Regularly inspect the mounting bolts of your new kit, especially after the first few hard rides. Check for any signs of stress cracks in the frame or welds, though this is rare with quality kits.

The biggest change is cleaning. With the engine bay exposed, you can now easily wash away mud and debris that was previously trapped. Use a pressure washer carefully, avoiding direct high-pressure spray on sensitive electrical connectors or air intakes.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete Tips

At FatBoysOffroad, we love the trails and want to keep them beautiful. A sustainable can am maverick bed delete is about making smart choices during your project.

Instead of throwing the old plastic bed in a landfill, consider repurposing it. Some owners cut them down to create small storage tubs or even a custom pull-behind trailer for yard work. You can also list it for sale online; someone who damaged their stock bed might be looking for a cheap replacement.

When choosing a kit, an eco-friendly can am maverick bed delete approach involves selecting a product from a manufacturer that uses durable, high-quality materials. A well-made powder-coated steel or aluminum kit will last the life of the vehicle, preventing the waste associated with replacing cheap, poorly made parts.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Maverick Bed Delete

Do I need to retune my Maverick after a bed delete?

No, a tune is not required. The weight loss and cooling benefits are advantageous on their own and do not negatively affect the engine’s stock calibration. However, the improved cooling can help your machine perform more consistently, especially if you already have a performance tune.

Can I still carry a cooler or cargo?

Absolutely! Most bed delete kits are designed with storage in mind. They often feature flat panels and mounting tabs specifically for coolers, tool bags, and other gear. Many riders find they can secure their cargo better and more logically than in the stock bed.

Does a bed delete affect the Maverick’s warranty?

This can be a gray area. Technically, modifying any part of your vehicle could give a dealer grounds to deny a warranty claim if they can prove the modification caused the failure. However, a quality bed delete is a simple bolt-on part and is highly unlikely to cause a failure of a powertrain component. If you’re concerned, have a chat with your local dealer’s service department.

Performing a can am maverick bed delete is more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a functional transformation. You gain unparalleled access for maintenance, improve your machine’s cooling, and shed performance-robbing weight.

By following this guide and taking your time, you can confidently tackle this project in your own garage. The reward is a more capable, more reliable, and more aggressive-looking Maverick. Now get out there, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!

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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.