How to Choose a Truck Bed Tire Carrier Rack with Gas Can Mount

By Armordillo® | Premium Truck & SUV Accessories – Armordillo4x4 | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: Buying Guides

Learn the key factors for selecting a truck bed tire carrier rack with an integrated gas can mount, including fit, capacity, and mounting style.

Quick answer

Pick a truck bed tire carrier rack with a gas can mount by matching its bed clamp design to your truck size and ensuring it supports your tire diameter without drilling.

Why an in-bed tire carrier beats a tailgate or roof mount

An in-bed tire carrier keeps the spare low and centered, improving stability compared to a tailgate mount that adds leverage or a roof mount that raises the center of gravity. The integrated gas can mount also frees up bed space for gear.

What to check before you buy

Not every rack fits every truck. Mid-size and full-size trucks have different bed widths and rail designs. A rack built for a full-size bed may sit too wide on a mid-size truck, and clamp arms may not reach the bed rails properly. Measure your bed interior width at the top rail and confirm the clamp range of the rack.

Also verify the tire diameter rating. Most in-bed carriers handle up to 37-inch tires, but if you run larger, you may need a custom solution or a different mounting style.

Drill versus no-drill mounting

No-drill racks use pinch clamps that grip the bed rail. They install faster and don't permanently alter the truck. Drill-in mounts are more secure but require holes in the bed. For most overlanders and weekend trail runners, a no-drill clamp system offers the best balance of strength and reversibility.

Decision rules for choosing your rack

1. Match truck size: Select a rack specifically listed for mid-size or full-size trucks. Using the wrong size can lead to poor clamp fit or bed rail interference.
2. Confirm tire diameter: Most in-bed carriers support up to 37 inches. If your spare is larger, look for a heavy-duty or custom option. Measure your spare tire's inflated diameter before ordering.
3. Decide on drilling: Prefer no-drill pinch clamps for easy installation and removal. Choose drill-in mounts only if you need maximum security and don't mind permanent bed holes.
4. Verify gas can compatibility: Check that the integrated mount fits standard NATO or metal gas cans. Some racks only accept specific can sizes. If you own odd-sized cans, measure the mount bracket opening.

Product facts

ARMORDILLO® Universal Fit Truck Bed Tire Carrier Rack w/ Gas Can Mount (For Mid Size Truck): Designed for most mid-size pickup trucks, fits up to 37-inch tires, uses a pinch-clamp mounting system. If you drive a mid-size truck like a Tacoma or Colorado, this rack clamps onto the bed rails without drilling, saving install time and preserving resale value.
ARMORDILLO® Universal Fit Truck Bed Tire Carrier Rack w/ Gas Can Mount (For Mid Size Truck)
ARMORDILLO® Universal Fit Truck Bed Tire Carrier Rack w/ Gas Can Mount (For Full Size Truck): Built for full-size trucks, fits up to 37-inch tires, features an angled design and pinch-clamp mounting. Full-size truck owners get a stable, no-drill mount that keeps the spare and gas can low in the bed, improving off-road weight distribution.
ARMORDILLO® Universal Fit Truck Bed Tire Carrier Rack w/ Gas Can Mount (For Full Size Truck)

Who should buy which

Best for

Mid-size truck owners who want a no-drill, space-efficient spare tire and gas can solution for off-road trips.
Full-size truck owners who need a stable in-bed carrier that keeps the spare low and doesn't interfere with a tonneau cover or bed rack.

Not for

Trucks with factory bed steps or uneven rail profiles that may prevent clamp arms from gripping securely.
Drivers who carry tires larger than 37 inches and need a custom or extended mounting system.