Basement Tetris

Topic: Basement Tetris (Read 1468 times) previous topic - next topic

Basement Tetris

April 06, 2021, 02:00:40 pm

For those of you will fully loaded basements, how're you keeping things organized? We're slowly moving back into the rig after being in a S&B for the last six months and the current lack of organization in the basement is stressful. We have big storage crates from the old rig (~3'x1.5'x2') but they're bulky, heavy to move when loaded down, and you can't see what's in them. I'm wondering if there are any magic bullets that everyone's using.

What about tools? Since buying the FT, I've probably doubled the amount of tools I'll be bringing with me and am considering removing the chest cooler in favor of a big tool chest. The big bay has a roll-out drawer, the smaller bay does not.

Previously I had just enough room for three of the aforementioned crates and that was it.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #1 – April 06, 2021, 02:19:45 pm

Watch the weight limit of the joey bed if you put a large, heavy toolbox there (especially at the outer limits, where pulling out the joey bed can cause it to cantilever).

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #2 – April 06, 2021, 02:58:37 pm

Quote from: Elliott – April 06, 2021, 02:00:40 pm

What about tools? Since buying the FT, I've probably doubled the amount of tools I'll be bringing with me and am considering removing the chest cooler in favor of a big tool chest. The big bay has a roll-out drawer, the smaller bay does not.

I use the large Sterilite clear plastic storage bins. They are very strong and come is several sizes that can be stacked. Easy to see the contents.

The Home Depot Logo

I built a custom slide-out for the Craftsman tool chest I inherited from my father. I don't know if something like that would work in your small storage bay, but just in case you're curious:

Homemade Slide Out Tray

Scroll to the bottom of the thread to see photos with tool box in place.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #3 – April 06, 2021, 03:34:38 pm

Also be aware that there is about 2 inches below the Joey bed that makes a great storage area for those plastic containers. Just have to open Joey to access from other side. Can only put a single level in so makes access better.

Amazon.com: Outuxed 2pack 36 Grids Clear Plastic Organizer Box Storage...

Scott

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Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #4 – April 06, 2021, 03:41:40 pm

On my coach there is the compartment access behind the left rear wheels. When I remove my muffler I plan to build a removable box system to store tools inside there. Every square inch counts.
Scott

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #5 – April 06, 2021, 03:46:39 pm

Quote from: dsd – April 06, 2021, 03:41:40 pm

On my coach there is the compartment access behind the left rear wheels. When I remove my muffler I plan to build a removable box system to store tools inside there. Every square inch counts.
Scott

Scott, when you do post the project so I can copy it. Between you, Roger and Don I have made a hybrid clone.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #6 – April 06, 2021, 04:26:01 pm

Quote from: dsd – April 06, 2021, 03:34:38 pm

Also be aware that there is about 2 inches below the Joey bed that makes a great storage area...

That's a great tip! The open space under the joey bed is where I store my 30' 50 amp extension cord. BUT, I would also have room for some of your plastic organizer boxes.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #7 – April 06, 2021, 04:34:55 pm

I actually want a little more than plastic containers. Probably build for ammo cans. Just purchased several 5x10x24 inch cans that interlock to stack. Would be easy to color code and are genuinely weather proof
Scott

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #8 – April 06, 2021, 04:55:35 pm

I've used this type of toolbox in previous coaches for tools. Worked well to organize different tools in each drawer and took up minimal space in the basement.
Ironton 5-Drawer Truck Tool Box Diamond Plate Aluminum, 21in. | eBay

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #9 – April 06, 2021, 05:04:55 pm

Quote from: folivier – April 06, 2021, 04:55:35 pm

I've used this type of toolbox in previous coaches for tools. Worked well to organize different tools in each drawer and took up minimal space in the basement.
Ironton 5-Drawer Truck Tool Box Diamond Plate Aluminum, 21in. | eBay

I really like this... great use of space.

Scott, great idea storing stuff under the drawer...never would have thought of that.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #10 – April 06, 2021, 05:14:00 pm

Sewn Binding Composition Book.
Number the containers, and list what's inside.
Draw a map for each bay.
Cursive handwriting only. In ink.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #11 – April 06, 2021, 05:17:28 pm

Quote from: dsd – April 06, 2021, 04:34:55 pm

I actually want a little more than plastic containers. Probably build for ammo cans. Just purchased several 5x10x24 inch cans that interlock to stack. Would be easy to color code and are genuinely weather proof
Scott

Where are these critters available?

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #12 – April 06, 2021, 05:18:01 pm

Quote from: Old Toolmaker – April 06, 2021, 05:14:00 pm

Sewn Binding Composition Book.
Number the containers, and list what's inside.
Draw a map for each bay.
Cursive handwriting only. In ink.

Bully!

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #13 – April 06, 2021, 05:31:49 pm

The 2" of space below the Joey bed is of no use to me. I have 2 slides that go out in opposite directions and meet in the middle.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #14 – April 06, 2021, 06:15:24 pm

Quote from: dsd – April 06, 2021, 03:34:38 pm

Also be aware that there is about 2 inches below the Joey bed that makes a great storage area for those plastic containers. Just have to open Joey to access from other side. Can only put a single level in so makes access better.
Scott

We put several items under the Joey Bed. Broom, awning tool, torque wrench etc. anything that lays flat.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #15 – April 06, 2021, 06:35:36 pm

I'm planning to repurpose the former muffler space as well. I was originally thinking of storage for a 20lb propane tank and perhaps dump hose storage. We bring a propane fire pit and don't like to run a hose off the coach tank. I may have talked myself out of that idea though as thoughts of storing propane under the bed (even though propane gas is heavier than air) and in close proximity to hot exhaust pipes, doesn't sound like a good idea. I believe someone else posted about placing some sort of metal basket there to store their dump hose. I'm still kicking around ideas.

I currently have a solar panel stored under the joey bed that I pull out to put some small charge into the batteries. I'm planning on a roof install soon so that will free up those 2 inches.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #16 – April 06, 2021, 06:38:17 pm

There is also some room against the wall behind the Joey Bed for things you don't need often.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #17 – April 06, 2021, 07:59:14 pm

Quote from: ifixboats – April 06, 2021, 06:15:24 pm

We put several items under the Joey Bed. Broom, awning tool, torque wrench etc. anything that lays flat.

Rear ladder laundry rack PVC parts....

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #18 – April 06, 2021, 08:06:14 pm

bpal, that was me with the wire basket. Works great for the sewer hoses and fittings.

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #19 – April 06, 2021, 08:13:32 pm

Quote from: Michelle – April 06, 2021, 07:59:14 pm

Rear ladder laundry rack PVC parts....

Do you have to glue them each time?

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #20 – April 06, 2021, 08:18:32 pm

Quote from: TGordon – April 06, 2021, 05:17:28 pm

Where are these critters available?

The guy that gets them for me gets them from a dealer down in Kingman Arizona. I'm third party and don't know there name but will ask. I also know of a Dealer in Beatty Nevada, although I've never purchased from him. Surplus stores?
Scott

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #21 – April 06, 2021, 09:15:05 pm

Quote from: craneman – April 06, 2021, 08:13:32 pm

Do you have to glue them each time?

Nope - only a couple of the joints are glued. The rest are slip-fit and tension holds it all together.

I found the instructions here PVC Drying Rack

The drawing he references in the article is

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #22 – April 06, 2021, 10:05:32 pm

Rear storage bay.
A New Storage Bay

I made part of the front side of the new bay a removable panel for access to the ride height valve, the shock and the air bag.

We are using tubs with attached covers. 9" and 12" heights. 3x12" and 6x9" ones.
Amazon.com: Akro-Mils 39120 Industrial Plastic Storage Tote with Hinged...

It took us several years to get it right so redo it every year or two, don't get stuck in a rut.

Lots of hoses, gas and water, lock cables and more fit under the joey bed.

I am sort of a minimalist when it comes to hauling around tools. I have much less now than 10 years ago, much more focused on what I need to do what I can do myself. If I need it on a trip I keep bringing it. If I don't use it for a couple trips I am going to consider leaving it home. Bring tools to do jobs you are realistically going to do yourself. Anything bigger I am going to call for help.

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Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #23 – April 07, 2021, 10:22:30 am

Quote from: rbark – April 06, 2021, 08:06:14 pm

bpal, that was me with the wire basket. Works great for the sewer hoses and fittings.

Do you have a picture or a link to another post?

Re: Basement Tetris

Reply #24 – April 07, 2021, 12:13:03 pm

I'm pretty sure I posted when I did it, with pictures . If I can't find it I'll take some today.

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