I'm planning on installing a couple of sliding cargo trays in my basement. One tray (sliding both directions) would fit in a 97"x36" space while the other would be one direction 73"x30". Since I do most of my own work, I'm thinking about doing the install with the help of a couple of friends. Is this something best left to the pros? If anyone has done this I would appreciate some advise.
Any brand recommendations?
Thanks
Nothing special to it. Suspect YOU will do a better job than most pros.
The secret IMO is to drill out an oversized hole (2-3") through the basement floor, then STOP. Use a knife or even a standard screwdriver to remove the foam insulation. Then epoxy in a wood plug to fill the hole. That allows you to properly torque the nuts from below without relying only on the very thin fiberglass bottom for support.
Been there, done that.
Have inspected way too many installations where the bottom FG was cracked and allowing water intrusion.
That sounds like a great idea Brett. Sounds like a 2" dowel rod would do it. Any recommended manufacturer for the slide?
Sorry, we had Joey Beds. Don't believe they are still in business.
RV Cargo Slides - SlideMaster (https://slide-master.com/rv-cargo-slides/)
RV Cargo Slide Trays & Parts - CAMPERiD.com (https://www.camperid.com/cargo-slide-trays-parts.html)
MORryde Products - MORryde International | MORryde (https://www.morryde.com/all-products/)
You might want to use a piece of a 4x4 treated post. You could make it sort of round if you want. Or use white oak. Both will provide long term resistance to rotting if they get wet. The thickness between laters of fiberglass is 1.5". And your sliding bed mounts might line up with the steel structure or the edge of one of the floor structure pieces. Probably a good idea to not compromise a structural piece.
I agree. Use a magnet to locate the box beams so you don't accidentally hit one.
I am not worried about water proofness, as the only hole thorough the bottom FG is large enough for the bolt. And, I bet that with a good polysulfide, SS fender washer and SS nylock nut.
I won't be able to adjust (fore and aft) for location of the bolts as that is determined by the cabinet space. Good idea about using a magnet - I have an upgraded stud finder. With regard to the bottom opening, that should not be a problem. I can have Kristi below watching for the penetration of the pilot bit of the hole saw.
These detail suggestions will come in handy later, since it might be October before I begin the project. We presently have plans for the Buffalo Stampede in SD, but have some concerns, especially in the wake of the Sturgis rally.
Another question: A slide out that goes both directions or two that are butted in the middle?
I suggest one that goes both ways as we have. I think it maybe cheaper than 2 as well.
Johnh
Our Cargo tray is a Journeyman Cargo Tray. Cargo Tray = pn FTCT6592 RL 2W 65"x92". Their website is a dead link, but the following has a link to a .pdf catalog : Journeyman® Trays — Keyline Sales, Inc. (https://www.keylinesaleselkhart.com/journeyman-trays-1)
Good luck, Dave A
edit to add: Our tray slide both ways, very handy.
I would look at what you think you might store there and how that may impact the center ceiling rails/panel. I have a clam shell BBQ that stands on end and it really limits how far I can slide out in one direction. I could lay it down flat but then it would take 3 times the space. 2 separate opposing slides would remedy that but would limit the length of what you could store also. I suppose I could move it to my other compartment. Tradeoffs...
We had a MOR/RYDE cargo tray installed by MOT. It was custom made to the size we needed. It is a one way as it is not a clear through opening to the other side. We think it is one of the best improvements we made to the coach.