Finally had the time and money to travel out to the coast and see the Aluminum Master, Sam Mulder (aka NorthLeftCoast), for an underfloor storage box. People here have called it a work of art and now, having seen it, I couldn't agree more. I'm grateful for his hard work and willingness to make the install perfect for my van. And, he's the nicest guy you'd ever want to meet. We had a great day. His lovely wife Melissa even gave me lunch because I was so distracted with my "mission" I forgot to bring any. Truly kind!
My build is slow but sure. In a few weeks I hope to have my new floor in. Then the storage box cover will lift off and and its attached trim will set down at the right height on the new floor. It'll be screwed down into the floor through its trim.
The box is 29 3/4 L x 21W x 15 deep. The cover is 21 x 14. We went with the 29 3/4 width (after starting with 31W) because the tail pipe hanger wanted to bang against the side and the original seat bolt inserts were in the way. Rather than deal with those things, we went shorter and the 29 3/4" fits perfectly between it all.
I started filling the box today and can't believe how much stuff fits in it. I eliminated two crates from the rear of the van and can finally safely carry the big jack from Agile. I'm a pretty happy camper right now. Here's some pics of the install:
Lots of stuff to cut out:
Sawzall cuts through most, grinder does the rest:
Finally, empty space:
The craftsman at work:
The box pre-flange:
The box rests below:
Setting the template:
Starting the cut:
This gives you a weird kind of feeling:
Measuring for the box flange:
Fitting the box:
Shims, big washers, and bolts through the floor:
The top goes on and fits like a glove. Got the lock on Amazon:
Nice piano hinge:
A little soundproofing with an old rug:
You can't say I didn't try:
Everything's a lot neater now and waiting for the new floor:
Find Sam's thread here for buying info, etc:
http://www.sportsmobileforum.com/for...rage-6034.html
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