XL Storage Box Condensation

[bec_n_em]

Does anyone have condensation problems on tools kept in the XL Storage Box?

I've done some searches on the forum and don't seem to come up with anything. I certainly seem to be having this problem. I thought sure it was something I didn't secure and it leaked. After taking everything apart, the only explanation I can come up with is...condensation on metal tools.

...and yup, I'm a total newbie on this stuff!

Thanks! Em -

[carringb]

It's normal-ish, in that regualr temperate changes will make cold/metal objects condense water from the air. It does suggest you have excess moisture in the van. If it's from parking long-term, you can use an RV chemical-dehumidifier. But if you drive regularly, you probably have water seeping in somewhere, possibly making the carpet or subfloor wet. Front windshield corners are a common sources. Worn out door seals, old window seals etc are all culprits.

[bec_n_em]

Thanks for your quick reply carringb!

The wetness is isolated to the metal tools in the XL storage box; just on that one side of the box. We've been using the van, that said, we're definitely in new condensation weather with a season change that we haven't seen since April when we got the van.

Any clever tricks you've seen folks use on keeping tools in the box to prevent condensation and/or rust?

[bec_n_em]

Thanks again carringb, didn't know that chem-dehumidifiers were out there!

After a google dive, I just ordered some of these from West Marine: https://bit.ly/2YI2UBR

Because they're bags, it looks like I may be able to pack one in each of my tool bags. That and perhaps a light coat oil on the tools with periodic maintenance could work.

Best, Em -

[carringb]

Just remember to empty the dehumidifier before each trip! I’ve only use the dome-top plastic cans, so maybe the bags are leak resistant? Anyways, the solution that forms is a corrosive salt. I think they use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride. Does bad things when you forget to empty it and it dumps all over the bathroom cabinet….

[Twoxentrix]

Probably not the answer for your rear storage box, but I use the Caframo in the Van when its not being used - also worked great in the cabin of our boat.

https://www.amazon.com/Caframo-Limit...UMIDIFIER&th=1

[bec_n_em]

Thanks Felix and carringb! Interesting plug-in options and the chloride compound warning is much appreciated!

Best, Em -

[daveb]

Originally Posted by Twoxentrix

Probably not the answer for your rear storage box, but I use the Caframo in the Van when its not being used - also worked great in the cabin of our boat.

https://www.amazon.com/Caframo-Limit...UMIDIFIER&th=1

I use the same when I'm plugged into shore power.

[1der]

I was thinking about our under floor storage and moisture then recalled our box is polypropylene. You might also try a trunk liner material to line the inside. Not sure if it is better rubber backed or just a robust thickness.

I would definitely check the seal between the box and underside of the van. In San Jose I would not expect humidity related issues. Maybe using bright lights under the van around the box (at night) will reveal seal gaps when looking into the box.

[daveb]

IIRC mine has a drain hole but could be wrong. Haven't seen the bottom of it since 2006 plus each year might be different.