Rotopax vs Jerry cans for spare fuel

Belize · 11-12-2020, 08:44 AM

Can I get some pros and cons from those experienced with carrying extra fuel on Rotopax vs. jerry cans? I love the sleek look and storage of the Rotopax, but have heard som negatives about the caps and longevity. Jerry cans are bulkier and I will have to manufacture a mount for them with security. Thanks!

marret · 11-12-2020, 10:03 AM

I have and use both. Took a Rotopax to AK and back on a motorcycle in 2016, no issues. I have that one and another as well. No issues yet with them in any way. For smaller amounts, these would be my preference. They are expensive for the size.

I like the Scepter 20 liter fuel cans due to capacity. They are a bit of a pain to fill the tank with due to weight and size/shape. That said it is easier to carry more fuel with them. More capacity for the money.

unreng · 11-12-2020, 12:10 PM

Scepter or Supply Core.
We've used metal gas cans for years and they are really hard to keep rust-free (internally and externally)...and thermal expansion can cause metal gas cans to shrink and swell in a not-so-good manner.
If you don't want to lift the can to empty into a fuel tank, check out a siphon = https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/pr...RoC8dAQAvD_BwE

arctictraveller · 11-12-2020, 01:19 PM

I've always felt the Rotopax ones are too small and expensive. I've carried three old fashion 5 gallon red metal jerry cans for years. They fit nicely on top of my Aluminess box, are easy to fill using the gas pump while they stay in place, and using a siphon hose with a squeeze bulb, I can transfer fuel to the main tank, or what ever else I want. I've never had an issue with rust either despite just discovering water in a couple of them. I suspect the alcohol in the fuel absorbed the water through the vents.

Charliesmom · 11-12-2020, 09:35 PM

We have used a 3.5 gallon Rotopax for our 2019 Transit since it was delivered in March, 2020. We store it behind the Aluminess Deluxe Box on our rear bumper with a locking mount for security. I got the idea from Fitz’s Sprinter build on this Forum, although he uses a water pax and fills it with Jack Daniels

.
The SAFETY Eco-spout is a PITA. I use a flexible self-venting spout that you can purchase separately from Rotopax.
I have used 6 gallon jerry cans for water, but to lug around 50# cans to refill our water tank is a chore for me. I haven’t used the siphon hose mentioned above, but the one referenced is a gravity fed system. There are battery powered pumps and hand pumps that I am aware of, as well. Because of the weight issues, I switched to 3.0 gallon containers to manually fill my water tank when needed.

pjpvi · 11-12-2020, 10:49 PM

I carried a 5 gallon Rotopax knock-off on my trip to Central America this year. Ratchet strapped & locked it to the spare tire. Filled it in the US before crossing into Mexico and didn't need it once. Finally emptied it in the tank a few days before I got home just to get rid of the diesel. Not sure I'll carry one when I hopefully head to South America in 2022. Not to question your need but just want to let you know my experience.

You can see it sandwiched between the tire and back door in this picture.

Belize · 11-13-2020, 10:13 AM

I suspect you have the 45 gallon fuel tank? I have the 35, and have really wanted to have the extra 10 gallons on a couple of trips.

pjpvi · 11-13-2020, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Belize

I suspect you have the 45 gallon fuel tank? I have the 35, and have really wanted to have the extra 10 gallons on a couple of trips.

Yes I do and just assumed you did too. I fully understand your desire to carry extra fuel!

**BroncoHauler** · 11-13-2020, 06:13 PM

One extra advantage to an extra fuel container is if you have a leak in your primary tank. I carry either JB Weld or Permatex Fuel Tank repair just in case, as well as a MFC of fuel. That way if I have a catastrophic leak, I can apply a temporary patch and drive as far as 5 gallons will get me. Better than walking.

Herb

Twoxentrix · 11-13-2020, 07:28 PM

Belize - Where did you envision carrying the extra cans? Thought I would share these two ideas in the event they may help you consider some alternatives.
I had two 5 gallon scepters on the top of my Aluminess box, but with the generator & 10 gallons of fuel I exceeded the Aluminess recommended weight capacity by quite a bit. Worried about welds breaking, Haven't used them since. Now I store two scepter water "runt's" on the box.
I've been toying with the idea of adding two of these (link - DOUBLE JERRY CAN HOLDER) mounted at each side of a bar welded to a hitch mount (tucked neatly behind the rear bumper). I believe I got the idea after seeing a front mount which TwoLost had pictured. This would allow for 20 gallons of fuel. I'm just a little concerned with potential impact, but if you're in an area less traveled it may not be such an issue.
https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.co...an-holder.html
I also considered two of these (10 gal total - SIDE MOUNT JERRY CAN HOLDER) hanging from the roof gutter on the side of the Van just rear of the back window (but would have to secure the bottom - either drill into the side of the Van to brace, or use extra strong suction cups like the ones used to hold Bike mounts to the roof of a vehicle)
https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.co...an-holder.html