Metal or plastic jerry cans?

I have used the Willow blue plastic Jerry cans in the past for water, but will no longer do so as they start to perish after a few years. I will now use the Green Army style plastic ones. I have not tested these ones though on an extended trip, though they have passed the test on a smaller journey. Water Jerries do not seem to be required to pass as stingient standards as fuel jerries. It may pay to buy fuel Jerries for water use?

The black hard plastic Jerry cans I have been using for fuel use since 2003 and still (I think) have all the original jerries in very good condition. I have also started to use the Red Plastics Jerrys for fuel use. (more Jerries = longer distances) I have only done one major trip with them (last year) and they seem Ok. (Cost $20 from Conventrys on special)

Metal Jerries are too heavy for my liking.

Regards
Alan

As a 20 year army man, I used to think anything but metal was likely to be a bit sus. I converted to plastic about 6 years ago and have never had a problem.

Metal is more likely to split in my view (along the seam). We have never had a plastic gerry split or leak. Carried 4 on the draw bar of CT for 4 years on a lot of very rough dirt roads. Now have 2 plastics on the front of off road van.

As long as your gerry holders have no sharp bits, plastic should do the job. Cheaper and lighter as well.

Main downside of plastic in my experience is swelling if left in the sun. But in a good gerry holder, this has not been a problem. Only if I leave one on the ground in the sun.

Norm C

On my Trak Shak I have carried a combination of both for the last 13 years.

I use plastic for water and metal for diesel. I have never had a problem with any of them.

If you buy good quality plastic or metal you will be OK.

Duncs

We use heavy duty plastic ones with no problems, but make sure they are the HEAVY DUTY ones.

gave up on steel ones a long time ago, have had my plastic ones for years, as mine are in the tray all I have done is put some 3mm closed cell foam in the areas that rub
regards Vince

I carry water inside the vehicle in 20L green plastic jerries. One is about 8 years old and still going strong.
I also carry 20L red plastic fuel jerries on the roof when nessasary. They are about 8 years old as well and also still going strong.
The jerries are left out in the elements when not in use.

Poly is my pick - Fuel Safe my usual brand pick - tough as. Around $40 for 40L - some brands are a lot cheaper at times - and I was aghast to see how much metal jerries can cost at times, especially seeing I don't want them :-o)... $70+ for a 40L was one brand I saw somewhere.

I bought second hand plastic and found they had worn close to leaking and this they did after a short trip. Everything wears out sooner or later but I mention this to warn that the surface the can sits on can especially on a trailer can become abrasive with dirt. I still go for plastic but I keep something between the plastic and the steel to help extend the life.

Owen

Hi Bluemetaldaisy
This is one question that you will get many varied reports. I have used both, but prefer a good quality plastic one. I have the black Rheem ones for over 15 years and have no issues at all, as well as the Red Scepter Plastic Jerry cans, made in Canada. Prior to using good quality plastic ones I used metal. One leaked from the seam after a very short time, and the others did not seam to seal correctly.

The main thing to remember, is to make sure that they have stamped on the container, they are for fuel.

Cheers

Stephen

I have been useing Rheem plastic fuel jerries for 20 years and still have the first one I ever bought.
No rust, no leaks, no smell.
Would not use a steel one if you gave it to me.

Cheers,
Peter,
OKA196 Motorhome

Bluemetaldaisy
We have the $20 army green ( solid colour ) gerry cans for water, and the $25 red diesel gerry's for fuel.

On a recent trip thru the Canning, the Gibb, and the Bungles, never had a problem.
Had 6 for water and 8 for fuel, most of which would be at least 5 years old.

Our Trak Shak has rubber strips and lock down bars, as standard.

Cheers
Bucky

Have you seen a plastic jerry can hit by a rock while travelling ??

Not only do you loose all the fuel in it but if it happens where there is any danger of the fuel igniting .... karvoom

I would only use the strongest and most secure material available - STEEL

Maîneÿ . . .

Well, I have several ex-army (steel) jerry cans, a few of which have been in my possession for more than 30 years, and the oldest of which is dated 1948...

All in A1 condition, and apart from replacing the odd lid seal now and then, the army ones have never let me down...

These have well and truly stood the test of time and will probably outlast me, so I can't see myself convertin' to plastic any time soon ..

Just can't bring myself to part with 'em ;-))

YMMV

:)

Thanks everyone for your replies. It still makes it a difficult decision, but it seems on the weight of the replies that good quality plastic ones seem to suffice. Not to disparage the metal ones. I've seen the 20lt metal ones for $80 with pourer sold at Supercheap and 20lt yellow plastic ones for around $30, one of which I bought. The previous yellow one ended up with the pouring lip deformed somehow so the cap didn't screw on securely and I had diesel spill as a result. Just have to tie them down or something to stop the possibility of them banging up against the top of the C/T. Also, it seems the dark green plastic military style jerries are better for water than my light blue one. Thanks again.