Reinforcing storage bins

[nsraja]

Hello,

I have been thinking about ways to running wire ropes through two square steel tubes under the storage compartments and tied to steel frames (the 2" square tube that appears to be under the house flooring. Is it a good idea? stupid idea? Anyone tried any such modifications? The Class As and Super Cs seem to have well designed storage bins. The Class C bins on the other hand "looks" problematic although I have not had any problem. I will continue to keep it as light as possible but adding 1/8th wire ropes might offer additional peace of mind.

Thanks
Raja

 

[16ACE27]

Aluminum strapping might be an easier idea. Like you said - not needed in our Class A.

 

[nsraja]

Aluminum strapping might be an easier idea. Like you said - not needed in our Class A.

Yes that could work too, but I want to force the bottom to remain flat and prevent it from cupping, which is why I thought two parallel steel tubing will prevent the wire rope from cutting through the plastic bin as well as help the bottom stay flat. The sound of it is not giving me a good feeling though, which is why I reached out to see if anyone has better suggestions.

 

[16ACE27]

Yes that could work too, but I want to force the bottom to remain flat and prevent it from cupping, which is why I thought two parallel steel tubing will prevent the wire rope from cutting through the plastic bin as well as help the bottom stay flat. The sound of it is not giving me a good feeling though, which is why I reached out to see if anyone has better suggestions.

OK, I gotcha. You would need to have at least U-channels on the bottom to keep it flat.

 

[ghnl]

I had some pieces of marine grade 1/2" plywood left over from another (non RV) project). The bottom of the storage compartments in our ACE are ribbed plastic. I cut the plywood to fit in the ribs (underneath the compartment) and ran vertical supports to the steel frame the compartments are suspended from. This reinforced the floor of the compartments. We often have a case or two of bottled water in one and my toolbox & battery jump box in another.

 

[ducksface]

Plumbers tape

https://www.amazon.com/LASCO-13-1601-28-Gauge-Galvanized-Perforated/dp/B0083GC8V2/

And
1" Square tubing.

Easiest.

(One of my bins will legitimately hold a ton after its rebuild. I've considered all sorts of bin building)

 

[nsraja]

Your aluminium strap idea got me thinking. And ducksface is spot on - why not use steel strap with holes (link below). Cut to length, then loop the ends around square tubing under floor, use a bolt to tie the straps. Getting it snug is going to be a challenge. Then it gave rise to another thought - why not use a 1.5 inch ratcheting nylon strap. Cupping is a problem only if you keep something heavy in one place for too long. My main goal is to address the risk of going on rough road (or pit) and shaking the bins off and out.

Amazon.com

1000 lb. Capacity 1-1/2 in. x 10 ft. Ratcheting Tie-Down Straps, 4 Pack

Amazing deals on this 4Pk 1000Lb 1-1/2In X 10Ft Ratcheting Tie-Down at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[ducksface]

The straps would be easy.
They'll need to be added to your preflight list.
They'll be fine and not deteriorate...until they Suddenly do....