Boondock Style Cargo Nets

BrianZ · May 2018

For any Boondock model owners who have the factory-installed cargo netting over the side wooden shelves, as shown here..
https://tab.nucamprv.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2017/12/T@B-Outback-Netting-1024x683-1024x683.jpg
I'd be curious to hear from you how these are attached to the wood, and how the one back corner shown is attached to the ceiling - screws or something else? What do the fasteners look like? I wonder if that ceiling attachment point next to a seam happens to be where one of the aluminum framing ribs runs across the ceiling? Seems like it would need to be, in order to endure tugging on the net to access stored items.
I'm planning to add some netting to our 2018-320S.

jgram2 · May 2018

Sorry re lighting-all 4 corners screwed in

BrianZ · May 2018

Thanks, jgram2, that helps! I can see they are both anchored into the seam trim in the ceiling, use screws, and the clips & netting look the same as what I ordered from OrganizedObie.

BrianZ · May 2018

So, I concluded from the above photos from @jgram2 that the screws going into the seams must be anchored into the aluminum framing, and used that info to help install my own cargo netting..

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/8i/4m3tt24hhjm7.jpg

Never shot a close-up panorama before, but here's my end result all in one photo.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/tq/vwaunv4ev7hj.jpg

Details of netting installation over my wire shelf. Knowing the ceiling seam was over an aluminum framing support & that supports are spaced at 8" OC, I was able to anchor the top of the net into the ceiling. Red arrows indicate the direction of drill holes & screws.
Correction: I used the stiffer/thicker 12G wire.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/ou/lzjandnqbwe5.jpg

Passenger side. Red arrows indicate direction of drill holes & screws for clips.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/pl/f1iovsfx8j9k.jpg

Driver side.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/0n/ub4hrdzdxxs1.jpg

I found my Dremel took handy for drilling in tight spaces, and 7/64" was the perfect size to fit the provided screws while still being tight enough to hold well under tension.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/3a/4ntbuodc3cx9.jpg

This shows the orientation of screw & clip. At the bottom, I simply used electrical wire (12G) to secure the the bungee & netting to the shelf, as the first step. Getting the opposite end secured next was a bit of a struggle, due to the tension of stretching the bungee to its limit (or 3" past its recommended span of 60"). I wanted to put the most tension at the bottom, where the strong wire shelf could easily keep it stretched. It worked fine.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/bg/1xk3dy4g63a6.jpg

The netting is fastened to the wire shelf at 5 points, and to the ceiling framing at center.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/gj/8nkpnmb5t68e.jpg

Passenger side shelf netting fasteners.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/4s/52cw5neiya7s.jpg

This shows fasteners at end of back wire shelf and rear of driver side shelf, including screw that goes through ceiling seam trim & into aluminum ceiling frame. The back netting has one screw going into the ceiling 8" below the seam trim, and passenger side netting has one screw going into the ceiling 8" above the seam trim. So, three different ceiling frame supports are used to secure the tops of the three nets.
PS:
The first thing I did before mounting the nets was to position the cylindrical metal bungee crimp clamps at one end, so they would be out of the way during normal use. You can see one on each of the bungee nets in this photo between the two pairs of mounting clips.

xbooooo · May 2018

Superb documentation!

BrianZ · May 2018

Thanks, xbooooo. Since I couldn't find all the details, I figured I may as well provide what I've learned.
UPDATE:
Now that I have received my order for an alternative sized cargo net, I have replaced the 4x36" net over the wire shelf with this 8x60" version, which I think is a much better fit, even though the space is only 6" tall..

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/pw/29nv82gkdchm.jpg

This 60" size is a better fit for the width, so the net is not stretched so tight, and it allows the top to be more easily pulled down for access. It also has the added benefit of coming with mounting hooks that are larger/sturdier and allow the net to be removed easily, versus the small, but more permanent clips that come with the smaller nets which don't allow easy net removal without removing the screw.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/a5/o2llnavmoby9.jpg

At right you can see the large hooks that come with the 8" tall cargo nets. Compare to the non-removable net clip in the corner to the left which comes with the 4" nets.

There were enough of these hook style mounts that I was able to replace the old clips at the tops of all three cargo nets with hooks, so all nets can be temporarily released at the top for access to shelves if needed. It's not really necessary, but could be more convenient at times.

BrianZ · May 2018

So, I had an 8"x48" cargo net leftover; then I thought of an unconventional place for it that might be handy for some additional storage space under the rear cabinets..

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/bz/mcna8fph8mb8.jpg

I installed the hooks 2" from the edges in an 8"x50" layout.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/m6/axszhgy1hcqb.jpg

We think this will be handy for storing the small pillows we use for bed (one at each end in this photo) and for bed clothes or other clothing.

The space can be accessed if needed without dropping the back of the seat, though it's easier with the back down & we think it will be convenient for storing items needed at bedtime.

jkjenn · May 2018

BrianZ said:

So, I had an 8"x48" cargo net leftover; then I thought of an unconventional place for it that might be handy for some additional storage space under the rear cabinets..

I installed the hooks 2" from the edges in an 8"x50" layout.

We think this will be handy for storing the small pillows we use for bed (one at each end in this photo) and for bed clothes or other clothing.

The space can be accessed if needed without dropping the back of the seat, though it's easier with the back down & we think it will be convenient for storing items needed at bedtime.

I might steal the under the cabinets idea.

BrianZ · May 2018

Please do, @jkjenn .
Here's a closer view..

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/q5/z6t4zzdpkg7v.jpg

I'm showing 10 hooks, but this 8x48" size comes with 8, which is enough. I added two that were left from my wire shelf net, so the space would divide evenly for my wife & I.

thoreau24 · June 2018

Thank you so much @BrianZ for this wonderful tutorial! We just installed the 2 nets above our windows and also the long one under the back cabinets. What a wonderful addition and the perfect place to stash tablets, phones and books.

Dalehelman · June 2018

@BrianZ
Could you please be a little more detailed description and instructions 😂😂😂😂

hymie · June 2018

Love the under cabinet net. Brilliant!

thoreau24 · June 2018

hymie said:

Love the under cabinet net. Brilliant!

I think that's our favorite part. It's going to be super handy and you can't even see it when you're standing or sitting.

TerryV6 · August 2018

hymie said:

Love the under cabinet net. Brilliant!

I agree, but also love your detailed pics and directions...

TerryV6 · August 2018

Brian,
Since you seem to be the hardware master, what size screw would you use to attach the clip I just received to hold up the optional outside storage door?

( not hyjacking thread, just a simple question and I’ll leave the room...grin)..

BrianZ · August 2018

Thanks you all, and for a good chuckle, Dale!
@TerryV6, I would probably have an answer for you if I had the hardware in my hands, and if I knew what it was being mounted on. Sorry, but I will have defer to someone who might know more about it.

TerryV6 · August 2018

No problem really. It’s just a simple plastic clip and I remember when Austin cut the hole, he said there wasn’t any worry about hitting anything.

dsfdogs · August 2018

@TerryV6 I use a small suction cup with hook to snag the storage door handle and suction it to the trailer. Easy to remove and I keep it right inside the opening.

ColleenD2 · August 2018

Clever!

TerryV6 · August 2018

Well, it was more of a matter of Jody saying, what? Drilling into our baby? Better get advice first.
But, she was inside, I was outside (86 degrees) and I just grabbed the appropriate length in a stainless, and mounted the clip. She must have that radar my mom had. I swear she was standing next to me as I straightened up. I was then told, Austin says to put some caulk on that.... Okay honey...

okay.... back to cargo netting discussion...

BrianZ · August 2018

Good for you, @TerryV6! I was thinking I should have at least suggested using stainless, so glad you had that covered. I would have said use a size that fits, but didn't want to sound like a smart ass. Yeah, caulk on the screw is a good idea. Looks great! Bet that will be handy.

PoodleMayhem · June 2019

I stumbled upon this post after I had already ordered nets from Organized Obie. Helpful info, great install detail. Thanks for sharing!

Kjvo3n1 · August 2019

OrganizedObie.com has baggage door magnets so that you don't have to use 2 hands to open and lock your baggage door. Just lift it and click it to the magnet and it sticks. It replaces the clips that like to break.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/k6/8fvmnwjn3gau.jpg

Dalehelman · August 2019

If I were to install one of those baggage doors I would consider putting the hinge on the bottom.

morey000 · August 2019

Kjvo3n1 said:

OrganizedObie.com has baggage door magnets so that you don't have to use 2 hands to open and lock your baggage door. Just lift it and click it to the magnet and it sticks. It replaces the clips that like to break.

yup- got that same magnet. it works.

LisaH · August 2020

@BrianZ - I am very impressed with the cargo net installation in the back end of the trailer. My husband and I were planning to install cargo nets in the same location but the shelf idea is even better. Can you please send or post pictures of how the shelf was attached? I see there is some sort of L bracket attached above the overhead cabinet. I would love to see how the shelf is attached to the side brackets. Really like the cargo nets underneath as well. We tend to pile stuff on the back shelf which makes the back drawer section hard to get it.

Thank you!

Denny16 · August 2020

@BrianZ, very nice, where did you get the hooks and cargo net from?
cheers

BrianZ · August 2020

@LisaH, below is a link to the page with shelf details, which I think will answer all your questions.. (a modification of Dale Helman's original idea)..
https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/92423#Comment_92423
The support bracket is custom cut from a strip of metal shelving bracket, bent to fit, with a plastic wire shelf support bolted to it.
@Denny16, the above linked page has a link to the netting from Organized Obie. They come with hooks.

Denny16 · August 2020

Thanks Brian
cheers

LisaH · August 2020

Thank you! I've ordered the cargo nets and I'll start gathering parts for the shelf. It looks like 'custom cut" shelving that can be purchased from Home Depot or Lowes. This will make my husband happy since I take over all the cabinets and leave him with very little storage!

BrianZ · August 2020

@LisaH, not sure if I said in the old posting, but I believe I got the wire shelf at Home Depot & the plastic supports too. Can't remember if it needed cutting or not, although I did cut ones I installed over the open compartments behind the back seat for more storage - another clever idea not mine ( see bottom of this page for my version..
https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/3027/a-question-about-storage-under-the-rear-sofa-my-solution/p2).
Also added some storage bins next to the wheel well under the passenger side seat (https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/7146/2nd-tier-storage-method-under-seat).

Boondock Style Cargo Nets

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