Carrying extra fuel for your ATV is necessary for any adventurous rider who wants to explore remote trails and go the extra mile. However, it’s crucial to approach this task with caution, as improperly stored fuel can pose serious safety risks. That’s why finding the best way to carry fuel on your ATV is essential. If this is your concern, you’re in the right place.
The three (03) the best ways to carry extra fuel on your ATV are:
- Fuel bottles in a holster or saddlebags strapped to the machine
- A set of flat gas cans or gas packs
- Getting a higher-capacity gas tank for your quad
While the three methods mentioned are noteworthy, I highly recommend giving strong consideration to the gas pack. Its simplicity and durability make it an excellent choice, ensuring it will last a lifetime.
This article will explore these options in detail, guiding you to make an informed decision for a safe and convenient fuel-carrying solution during your ATV adventures. So you don’t want to stop reading here!
What Are the Best Ways To Carry Extra Fuel For Your ATV?
There are several ways to safely carry extra fuel on your ATV. Based on the search results, here are the three best ways:
Fuel Bottles
Fuel bottles are an inexpensive way to have the extra fuel you may need in case of an emergency. The most popular fuel bottles are these MSR Fuel Bottles, found here on Amazon. They are made for carrying fuel, and they are safe. They’re made of metal to prevent punctures, and they’re leakproof to prevent spills.
However, if you have storage space you could fit these bottles in, then great. If not, you can either buy a rear storage box or get a Bottle Holster found here on Amazon and mount it on the ATV somewhere. This holster will fit the MSR bottles nicely and has plenty of straps to secure it to your machine easily.
The ATV rear storage box I recommend is the Coleman ATV Rear Padded Bag, found here on Amazon. They run about $60–$70 and are a simple, padded bag you mount to the back of your ATV. The Camco Storage Box is a lot nicer but will cost you an extra hundred bucks. That’s why I stuck with the cheaper Coleman.
Gas Packs
These gas packs are the best way to store extra fuel on your ATV. These work well for jeeps or side-by-sides, as well. The ones I recommend are the Rotopax Gas Packs found here on Amazon. These containers are durable, they’re made with thick walls and are leakproof. They will fit right on the racks of your ATV and are easy to mount.
To mount the gas pack, you could strap it (with ratchet straps or something) to your machine using the strap points on the top and bottom of the can. I recommend the Fuel Pack Brackets, like this one from Amazon, to mount it on your ATV. These brackets save time and the fuss of having to deal with straps. Just place the can on the bracket and rotate the center lock to lock the can to the bracket.
The brackets will keep the gas packs out of the way of other things you want to mount on your racks. You can mount the brackets anywhere the hardware allows. Here is an example:
Higher Capacity Gas Tank
The factory gas tanks on ATVs are usually only a few gallons. They do this for weight and cost reasons, but if you are going on long-distance rides, this might not be enough. Some long-distance riders will swap the gas tank itself for a higher-capacity one. However, I don’t recommend doing this unless you are good at working on your machine, or you take it to a shop.
First, you have to find a gas tank that will hold more fuel and still fit your machine. Then you would disconnect the fuel lines from the tank. Make sure the machine is off, and the key is removed before starting any work. You will need to empty the tank before you unhook the fuel lines, or you could have a big mess on your hands. To remove the fuel tank, take all the bolts connecting it to the machine out, you may have to remove the seat or other components to do this. Remove the fuel tank and install the replacement.
You can see why I recommend the gas packs. They are so much simpler and will last forever.
10 Practical Safety Tips to Consider When Transporting Extra Fuel on Your ATV
Here are some safety tips to consider while transporting extra fuel on your quad.
- Carry as much fuel as you need. Check your gas levels before going on a ride. This way, you aren’t bringing way too much or not enough fuel with you.
- Make sure there are no leaks. Check your gas packs or fuel bottles to ensure they aren’t leaking before you head out on a ride.
- Avoid Overfilling: You should never overfill the fuel containers. It’s essential to allow some space for fuel expansion due to temperature changes. Overfilling can cause fuel leakage or spills, leading to a hazardous situation.
- Do not wear the fuel in a backpack or on your person while riding. The fuel could get on you, and then all it would take is one little spark to ruin your day. There is also the risk of a crash, puncturing any fuel containers, which may cause the fuel to ignite. If this happens while you’re wearing it, it could end very badly.
- Use Proper Fuel Containers: Use approved fuel containers that are specifically designed for transporting flammable liquids. You want to ensure that the containers are in good condition, properly sealed, and free from leaks. Other plastic containers aren’t made of gasoline, and the plastic could warp and break over time.
- Keep Fuel Away from Heat Sources: Make sure that your fuel container is kept away from heat sources such as the exhaust system or hot engine components. This is because heat can increase the risk of fire or fuel vapor ignition.
- Don’t store fuel for extended periods. Gas can and will go bad after a while.
- Follow ATV Manufacturer Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines provided by the ATV manufacturer regarding carrying extra fuel. Adhere to their recommendations and instructions to ensure safe transportation.
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry a fire extinguisher and a spill kit in case of emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the proper use of the fire extinguisher and know how to handle fuel spills safely.
- Follow Local Regulations: Ensure that you comply with local regulations and laws regarding the transportation of extra fuel on ATVs. Different regions may have specific rules and restrictions in place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to exercise caution when carrying extra fuel on your ATV. Avoid wearing fuel in a vest or coat and opt for safe storage on your machine instead. There are numerous preferable options available that eliminate the risk of personal injury. I highly recommend using the Rotopax Gas Packs, as mentioned earlier. That is what I use. Their convenience and safety surpass alternatives, making them an unbeatable choice