Side-by-Side Dust Control: Keep Your Ride Clean and Comfortable

When you’re tearing through sand dunes, desert trails, rocky terrains or working on your ranch dust is part of the fun, until it gets inside your cab. Too much dust reduces visibility, affects breathing comfort, and can even wear down parts over time.

Keeping dust out of your side-by-side (SxS) means more comfort, better performance, and fewer post-ride cleanups. Whether you ride a Defender, Maverick, or Commander, smart dust control helps combat dust swirl—that constant cyclone of dust that circulates inside the cab when airflow isn’t balanced.

With the right setup, you’ll ride cleaner, see clearer, and stay comfortable wherever the trail takes you.

Quick Dust Control Tips

Top Causes of Dust in a Side-by-Side

Understanding where dust comes from is the first step to keeping it out.

• Airflow and pressure differences: An open cab or partial windshield can create suction, drawing dust in from behind.

• Terrain conditions: Riding in sand dunes, gravel, or rocky trails naturally kicks up clouds that swirl into your cab.

• Cab openings and gaps: Even small spaces around doors, vents, or panels let dust sneak in during high-speed rides.

• Improper venting: If air enters your cab but can’t escape easily, it creates suction that pulls dust in from behind and under the seats.

💡Tip: After a long ride, check your air filter, cab seals, and windshield vents to spot where dust tends to collect.

How to Keep Dust Out of Your Side-by-Side

Ready to reclaim your clean cab? Follow these steps for better side-by-side dust control.

1. Seal Your Cab

• Install a Can-Am Cab Seal Kit to block dust entry points around doors and panels.

• Add rubber door seals or foam gaskets for extra protection.

• If you have a half cab, make sure all panels fit snugly.

2. Choose the Right Windshield Setup

Your side-by-side windshield setup plays a key role in managing dust, airflow, and overall cab comfort.

• A full windshield protects from dust, wind, and sand but may increase cabin pressure.

• Add rear panels or a rear windshield to balance airflow and reduce the vacuum effect.

• A vented windshield can help to combat swirl by letting controlled airflow through the cab — just make sure you also have a way for that air to exit, like a rear panel or roof vent.

3. Maintain Airflow Balance

• Use a vented roof or side vents to create a clean airflow path through the cabin.

• Avoid blocking vents with gear or accessories.

• Keep your air intake clean and your air filter fresh to prevent engine strain.

4. Protect Yourself with Dust-Proof Gear

• Wear a side-by-side dust mask or neck gaiter to stay comfortable on long rides.

• Pair it with dust goggles or visors for clear visibility in sandy terrain.

• Lightweight vented helmets improve airflow without sacrificing safety.

5. Keep It Clean

• Wash your cab after every dusty ride using XPS Cleaning Products.

• Clean and re-oil your air filter to prevent dust from reaching your engine.

• Wipe down seats, vents, and instrument panels with XPS Interior Cleaner to protect surfaces.

FAQ

How do I keep dust out of my Can-Am Defender cab?

Balance your airflow to stop dust swirl. Add a full windshield and rear panel to equalize pressure and prevent dust from being pulled inside. A Can-Am Cab Seal Kit helps close small gaps around doors and panels, improving comfort and keeping your ride cleaner.

What’s the best way to seal a side-by-side enclosure from dust?

Use a Can-Am Cab Seal Kit to tighten joints and seams across your doors, floors, and rear panel. Inspect seals and gaskets for wear, and ensure your windshield and roof fit snugly. A properly sealed enclosure blocks fine dust, improves comfort, and protects your interior from debris.

Final Takeaway

Dust control isn’t about avoiding dirt; it’s about riding smarter. With the right setup, accessories, and maintenance routine, your Can-Am side-by-side stays cleaner, performs better, and keeps every adventure comfortable—no matter how dusty the environment.

Ready for Cleaner, Longer Rides?

Seal it. Protect it. Maintain it with genuine Can-Am accessories and XPS products—built for dust, durability, and comfort on every trail.

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