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How to Install a Convertible Cab Enclosure Doors on the Can-Am Defender

By Chloe Preocanin | How-To on July 6, 2023
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Length: 22:43
Created: July 6, 2023

What’s up guys Braden here with SuperATV and today we’re going to be showing you how to install SuperATV’s full cab enclosure doors on this Can-Am Defender so let’s get right to it.

Pre-Installation of Components (0:34)

In this section, we prepare all the components for installation. Start by grabbing the pillar bracket, striker bracket, and side clamp. Pre-install these components on the side pillar to simplify the process when attaching them to the machine. This pre-installation step includes ensuring all hardware is ready and lined up correctly, making the actual installation smoother and more efficient.

Striker Bracket Installation (1:03)

Begin by aligning the striker bracket with the two holes on the inside of the pillar. Using two M8 by 25-millimeter screws with flat washers, insert the screws through the holes and secure them with M8 Nylock nuts from the back side. This secures the striker bracket to the pillar, which is crucial for the door’s locking mechanism.

Side Clamp Installation and Foam Installation (1:59)

Loosely install the side clamp using M6 hardware. Insert the M6 bolt through the hole in the pillar and the clamp, securing it with an M6 Nylock nut. Ensure the clamp can rotate and adjust as needed during the final installation.

Apply foam to the backside of the pillar at all points where it will contact the machine’s cage. This foam helps prevent vibration and noise while ensuring a snug fit. Follow the contours of the pillar and cut off any excess foam for a clean finish.

Lower Hinge Mount and Strap Installation (3:55)

Install the lower hinge mount by aligning it with the four threaded holes. Use six M8 by 20-millimeter Allen screws with M8 flat washers to secure it. Insert the screws through the mount and into the threaded holes, but do not fully tighten them yet to allow for adjustments.

Attach the strap to the side of the hinge mount using M6 Allen headed hardware. Insert the M6 bolt through the strap and the mount, securing it with an M6 flat washer and Nylock nut. This strap provides additional support for the door assembly.

Rubber Gasket Installation and Final Foam Application (5:37)

Install the rubber gasket on the hinge bracket. Starting at one end, press the gasket firmly along the edge, following the contour of the bracket. This gasket helps seal the door and reduce noise. Cut off any excess gasket material for a clean finish.

Apply the thinner foam strip around the edge of the pillar, except for the side with the striker. This foam strip ensures a tight seal when the door is closed, preventing dust and water from entering the cab.

Panel Installation Preparation (7:16)

Prepare the vehicle for panel installation by dumping the bed and removing the top and bottom push pins from the side panel. Additionally, remove the bar and two mounting screws located behind the upper seat cushion to clear the installation area.

Upper Cage Bolts Removal and Clip Nut Installation (8:13)

Remove the two upper cage bolts using a 15mm socket. If your machine still has the factory door net installed, remove all associated hardware at this time. This step clears the way for installing the new door panels.

Install an M8 clip nut in the bottom factory hole. Attach the panel by inserting an M8 by 35-millimeter bolt with a flat washer through the panel and into the clip nut. This secures the lower part of the panel to the machine.

Clamp Adjustment and Hardware Installation (9:12)

Adjust the pre-installed clamp around the cage, bumping the windshield up if necessary. Insert the hardware through the designated hole and secure it. Fully tighten all bolts except for those on the striker bracket, which will be adjusted later.

Rear Hinge Bracket and Additional Clamp Installation (10:15)

Remove the factory T30 Torx screw and install the rear hinge bracket. Line up the bracket with the factory cage bolt hole, then reinstall the T30 Torx screw. Secure the bracket further with an M8 Nylock nut to ensure stability.

Install clamps on the cage, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure. Fully tighten the hardware, including the upper nuts for cage mounting and the T30 Torx screw. These clamps add extra stability to the door assembly.

Lower Door Hinge Mount and Lower Door Installation (12:11)

Remove the protective film from the lower door hinge mount and install it using M8 by 25-millimeter hardware with flat washers. Insert the screws into the door’s mounting locations but do not fully tighten yet to allow for adjustments.

Slide the lower portion of the enclosure onto the hinges. Adjust the striker for proper alignment, ensuring the door closes snugly. Fully tighten the hardware for the striker bracket once the door is correctly positioned.

Striker Adjustment and Upper Door Installation (13:53)

Fine-tune the striker’s position to ensure the door locks securely. Engage the striker with the door latch and adjust until the door seals properly. This step ensures the door opens and closes smoothly while providing a tight seal.

Install the upper portion of the door by sliding it onto the hinges. Check the alignment and ensure the bulb seal contacts the cage firmly. Secure the upper and lower portions of the door with M10 bolts, making any necessary adjustments for a tight fit.

Ensure the door seals properly and opens and closes smoothly. Perform any final adjustments to the striker and hardware to optimize the fit. Check for even gaps and a secure latch to ensure the door provides the best possible seal.

Gas Strut, Mirror, and Alcorn Nuts Installation (20:00)

Attach the gas struts to the upper door frame and hinge bracket using M8 Nylocks. Secure the struts with a 12mm wrench and 13mm socket, ensuring they provide adequate support for the door.

Install the mirror by removing the flat bracket and securing it with the provided eight-millimeter screws and Nylock nuts. Adjust the mirror for optimal visibility and snug up the hardware.

Thread acorn nuts onto the exposed threads on the back side of the hardware. Tighten them to prevent any exposed threads from causing issues and to give a finished look.

Final Steps (22:21)

Repeat all steps for the opposite side of the machine. Ensure all hardware is fully tightened and that the doors function properly. That’s all there is to it to install SuperATV’s convertible cab enclosure doors on this Can-Am Defender. Be sure to check the description below to pick yours up today. While you’re there, drop a like, comment, and subscribe. Thanks for watching and we’ll catch you on the next one.

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