Racks and Carriers.

[4WD: picture of Jerry can carrier on rear of 4x4, jpg] The cheapest way to carry extra fuel is to buy a couple of fuel cans. They are not as convenient as long-range fuel tanks but they can be unloaded to lighten a bogged vehicle and you can keep them when you sell your four wheel drive.

The good old Jerry Can is definitely the best kind of fuel can; it is strong and leak resistant. Check that the seam is not damaged, that there is no rust (particularly on the base), and that the rubber seal is in good condition.

A full Jerry can weighs about 50lbs (25kg) and you do not want a loose one bouncing around inside the vehicle on a rough road or during an accident. All loads should be securely tied down.

Alternatively, Jerry can(s) can be mounted in a strong rack. Water containers are sometimes mounted at the front of a vehicle but one does not really want extra weight on the front springs and such a position may obscure lights and restrict airflow into the radiator. Fuel cans should never be carried at the front of a vehicle because of the obvious danger in an accident.

Heavy items such as full cans should not be carried on roof racks unless absolutely necessary because they obviously raise the centre of gravity of the vehicle. They can also easily exceed the maximum weight limit for gutter-mounted roof racks; check with the vehicle manufacturer. Vehicles such as the Camel Trophy vehicles that carry heavy loads over rough tracks direct the roof rack's weight to the chassis through an internal or external roll cage.

The best place for an external Jerry can rack is at the rear of the vehicle. Most hinge side-ways but if the vehicle has a sturdy, down-ward opening tail-gate, it may be possible to bolt the rack directly to it. The latter arrangement is neat but does require more effort to open and close the tail-gate. Take care that the rack does not foul the tow hitch if fitted.