Enclose Underside and Insulate for 4-Season Camping?

[Deleted User]

Hi everyone, I tried to do a search before posting, but I couldn't figure out what to search for!  I'm wondering if anyone has considered or already modified the underside of the T@B so that it is insulated for use in the winter? I know you can buy tank blankets, etc, but I was thinking of something permanent.

Nomad

There was just a discussion this last week about heating the tanks and that area. Search for tank heater, heating and you should find it. There's an older discussing about actually installing tank heaters.

Tabaz

Most T@Bs after 2015 have a corrugated plastic covering along the entire underbelly that acts to somewhat insulate the tanks. 

[Deleted User]

OutbackAZ said:

Most T@Bs after 2015 have a corrugated plastic covering along the entire underbelly that acts to somewhat insulate the tanks. 

Oh really! I'd like to see a picture of that underbelly if anyone can get a shot of it.

Dalehelman

We have a 2015 that didn't come with the underbelly enclosed. I enclosed it with the  corrugated black plastic that is commonly used. I also added 1/2" beaded  foam board insulation. It's hard to get a good picture angle. Hope these help.

Nomad

Ahhh, that's what you used.
I know there was a picture of the factory cover poset but I'll be danged if I could find it - Hopefully someone will post some shots of that also.

Verna

I had mine covered at the factory last summer, but the last occupant of this campsite did not clean up after their dog and I am NOT going to lay on that gravel to take pics!  Maybe tomorrow when I'm on sand.  (Yes, I clean up after Sunny Day.)

Dalehelman

I purchased it from a local RV service dealer. Cost about $90. It's the same material used on most all trailers. Comes in 6' width I think sold by the square foot.

Nomad

Looks like the same material they make lawn signs out of only black.

Dalehelman

PXLated said:

Looks like the same material they make lawn signs out of only black.

Much heavier 

ericnliz

robyn769, As soon as the 3' of snow leave, I'll THINK about lying on my back for that shot! Just kidding. Maybe Dalehelman can give you a shot of that one, his is in a heated garage

ericnliz

Dalehelman, Thanks, I knew you'd come through!

Dalehelman

Eric I all ready did.

jkjenn

I have thought about doing this just for added floor protection.

ChanW

Yeah, that's the one thing I've noticed with this Alde heating system. If it's cold outside, the floor is definitely cold. 
The dog sleeps on the floor, and I put down the seat cushions for him in any real winter camping. (I never pamper a dog, but I also can't justify torture).
It seems better insulation down there would be a great place to start.

[Deleted User]

Thanks everyone for the replies and a special thanks to Dale for the pics!! Does anyone know if the factory installed version offers any real reliable insulation to the tanks?  The material in the photos from Dale doesn't seem like it offers much in the way of insulation but more so protection from road dirt and debris.

Dalehelman

The  corrugated plastic does have air chambers. If the sides are crimped tightly it will have a small insulation factor. It's pretty easy to add additional foam board.

[Deleted User]

oh ok. I will definitely look into this. Thanks again for the pics!

Tabaz

I'll post some photos of a factory covering later today.

Tabaz

Here is the underbelly for a 2016 Outback.  View from front, facing passenger side:


View from front, facing driver side:


View from front, facing center:



View from rear:

[Deleted User]

Great! Thanks. I really appreciate the effort. I'm really glad to get a look at the factory install as well.