Vanagon Under Vehicle Storage Mod

12/29/2015

I decided to use the space below the sliding door for some under-vehicle storage — a secure waterproof container for extra parts and tools, and the levelling blocks that have been taking up too much space in the luggage rack

Mortar can contents " big crowbar, torque wrench, pipe extension, assorted hoses, grease gun with moly and needle nozzle, belts, pipe repair kit, water pump, fuel filter, small vice, hacksaw with extra blades, spark plugs, lots of assorted bolts, screws, clips, grommets, extra bulbs, wire, old shower curtain to use as a ground tarp, smooth and textured rags, gloves, etc...

12 Comments

Vanagon Shenanigans link

5/8/2016 09:26:58 am

This is a really great idea. Thanks and good job.

Jeffrey J. Hoover

11/16/2016 04:44:44 pm

Great stuff. Is this the right sizzle ammo can? http://ammocanman.com/81mm-tall-ammo-can-grade-1/

Did you make the Levelers? Any details on that?

Shane

11/16/2016 04:59:06 pm

The storage container attaches through the floor with a single bolt (this makes the container secure, as one has to have access to the vehicle interior to loosen the bolt). The levelling ramps (made of 2"x8" pressure-treated lumber) are held together as a unit with bungee straps, and then simply strap into the channel in front of the new storage container.

Gary Johnpeer

10/26/2022 05:16:08 pm

Sure would love to see some detailed pictures of your storage container. Seems like an excellent idea that I'd like to use on my 1984 Vanagon.

Greg Toews link

5/23/2019 02:41:37 pm

Great job Robert, Thanks for sharing. You've just inspired me to renew that domain (westyinnovations.com) and start posting my own mods, hacks and ideas.

Ron ten Velden

3/3/2020 12:37:59 pm

Dear Shane,
struggling with the same problem i was tinkering with the same idea. I even found same sort of container due to its dimensions (although i have to admit that id rather have it being able to open full length as opposed to the top, but still)
Now i see your solution on fixing it to the bottom
Love the simplicity. The bolt security is simple but effective

Only thing i dont get on the bolt is the access. Do you access it through a sort of latch you have on the inside?
Can you clarify a bit for me

kind regards

Ron
the Netherlands

Vacation Vicky link

12/8/2020 10:54:55 pm

This is a grreat blog

Levente Martelyi link

1/4/2021 04:48:17 pm

I created a metal storage compartment for my 1990 Westy under the floor on the passenger side, just below the sliding door. Find a metal office type cabinet drover and convert it. You need to buy two small metal hinges, obtain two small cross members (scrap metal made and drilled to size, and fitted. My drawer is roughly 12"X 23" and 5-6" high. It is inexpensive; (many ads are out there for free give a ways metal cabinets) and practical. It fits inside the area where the room is for a second propane tank. The BOLTS SHULD BE THERE ALREADY. Perfectly fitted, opens as the front drops to the ground, the rear is hinged to the bolts sticking out of the underside of floor. I got the grey color cabinet, it matches the grey interior - and the orly blue outside van.
If you need pictures, let me know.

Gary

2/24/2021 09:35:16 pm

I'd like to see pictures... I've been trying to find a inexpensive way to use the space.

Levente Martelyi

2/25/2021 10:20:17 am

Hi Geary; This is easy and inexpensive experience. The challenge is to find the right size metal file cabinet and/or drawer. First, exact size, 11.5" (32M/M) wide, measure the space under the sliding door. You may have to fabricate some small parts from your "junk" in the garage. The rest of parts, small hinges, nuts & bolts, metal cross bars etc., are in your hardware store under $10. Discard the metal shell of the file cabinet, or save it for other projects. I used mine for a flower pot/bucket.

I am unable to attach pictures here, send me your direct email.

Lev Martelyi

10/26/2022 10:08:19 pm

E=mail me

Lev Martelyi

10/26/2022 10:04:47 pm

If you like to contact me send an e-mail to me with your return e-meil address.

hogy_te_vagy@yahoo.com

VAN MODS & HOW-TO'S

Vanagon Under Vehicle Storage Mod

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