Rear door storage - hinge mounted?

[tmalay]

I've got a 02 e350 and have been looking for a way to add some outside storage on the rear doors. Are there any options for adding a cargo box, frame, etc to the rear door(s) using the hinges as a mounting point? Mounting solely to the door seems like it might not be the strongest, even with some additional backing plates

I see hinge mounts quite often in sprinter/transit builds but have only seen it utilized by Aluminess with their rear door tire rack.

Thanks.

[doublevan2]

I'd recommend something that bolts to the bumper - and/or door hinges - that recommends the appropriate "weight" that those attachment points can handle. So explore Aluminess (no affiliation) and other manufacturors mentioned on the forum. Personally - I wouldn't mount to the door. In the "Search" window above - type in rear bumpers and see what pops up ? Check EBay - CraigsList where you live, etc. Good luck --

[tmalay]

Thanks doublevan2, agreed that door mounting isn't the right option.

I've done some searching here on the forum, but didn't come across much in regards to using the hinges as mounting points and I was hoping to stick with my current (stock) bumper, but maybe thats not the case for this project

[BrianBlair]

I mounted a small Aluminess box to the passenger door on my van. Many folks have told me it wouldn't work but it's been fine for the last 20k miles or so.

I don't put heavy items in, maybe a max of 20lbs....mostly bulky lightweight stuff that we don't want in the van(awning walls/running shoes/cycling helmets/etc).

I was/am completely prepared for my system to wind up being a failure at some point. If that occurs I'll remove the box and plug the holes in the door. If it ruins the door I'll replace the door. In my mind it was/is worth the risk as I don't need a 3k Aluminess bumper but I do need more storage.

BB

[tmalay]

Well dang, thats about what I'm looking to use it for as well. I'll have to keep an eye out for one of those boxes.

I suppose keeping it light is key and like you said, if it fails, plugging the holes and/or replacing the door aren't too terribly difficult.

Thank you

[carringb]

Conversion vans always had door-mounted tires. For stock size tires, it seems to hold up just fine.