Rooftop diesel storage

[Brissieboy]

Just looking at options to carry some extra fuel on the roof rack - planning a Simpson trip later this year. Has anyone used this type of plastic 20 litre containers? Supposedly good for diesel. I want something that lays down rather than a normal jerry can that needs to stand up (and I will have one of those down below as well). Do they seal well? Sturdy enough?
86639

[mudski]

You'd wanna trust the cap to not leak.

[Brissieboy]

You'd wanna trust the cap to not leak.

That is why I asked - I don't really trust what any ad says. I want to be able to lie it down flat. Water jerries often leak there but I have repaired a few of them by simply smoothing up the spout surface that seals against the O-ring in the cap. They are usually just as they come out of the mold and quite rough, but easy enough to fix.

[10G]

I've carried 3 x normal 20 litre jerries on the roof sitting on their side with the breather down several times and never once had a problem.

Don't over fill them, just remember they will expand so take that into account when filling them. I have the Scepter brand jerries which are way better than most other plastic jerries IMO.

I've popped up and undone the filler on them a few times during trips, just use common sense.

A 20 litre jerry weighs about 20 KGs.

[mudski]

Another thing. You'd want to have that strapped down tight, any movement, even slight will be wearing away at the plastic.

[10G]

Yep, or have them confined so they can move, but not jump out of their confinement.

I built a cage that bolted to my roof rack and locked via padlocks and the jerries sat in that.

86643

Yes, the rack looks bent, that's how it was delivered. It's not as bad as it looks when seen in real life.

You may notice a stretchy cord across the top??? That's to keep them down when empty, they fly everywhere when empty.

[BrazilianY60]

That is a cool picture 10G.

[10G]

Thanks.
Don't store fuel on the roof anymore. Keep 2 jerries inside now. No, they don't smell.

[Brissieboy]

Thanks.
Don't store fuel on the roof anymore. Keep 2 jerries inside now. No, they don't smell.

I believe that is legal for diesel but not petrol. I also have an arrangement that securely holds 2 jerries inside, but looking at an extra one for the Simpson. I don't mind if a bit of water leaks up top, but not too happy if the diesel does.
And I appreciate all the comments, thank you mudski 10G!!

[10G]

it's only illegal if you get caught.

i wouldn't carry petrol inside anyway it's too bloody dangerous, diesel is nowhere near as dangerous.

[mihit]

I don't mind if a bit of water leaks up top, but not too happy if the diesel does

Water causes rust...Diesel prevents it ;)