Stowaway2 is back

[wincrasher]

Well, I put the box back on. Was going to post the pics to the forum, but the software wouldn't let me link to Flickr for some reason. Something has changed that I don't understand I guess.

Anyways, here's my blog entry: http://wincrasher.blogspot.com/2015/...2-is-back.html

[Davydd]

With the Stanley box out of the van what goes back inside to fill the inevitable void that begs to be filled? The kayak? That new back carrier, not only looking wickedly cool also gets your bike from hanging way off the back the way you originally had it on your old Travato.

[wincrasher]

Either kayak can go in there, or I can just leave it empty. It's nice standing room to get dressed.

I also figure, on my trip to the beach, since it's only a 4 hour drive, I can just put the scooter inside the van in that space. Will need to figure a way to strap it down though. When I go to the Keys in December, I may need to reconfigure again and use my scooter platform and the Stanley. Nice to have options.

If you notice in the pics, I took off the reciever I had mounted, as well as two of the wheels. I left the one wheel on the main support in case I bottom out somewhere.

[Highlander]

I'm curious, is it possible to lock the swing arm in place? The reason I'm asking is, it would be a nice safety feature to keep the arm from accidentally swinging out on the rode. Also, the box is an obstruction, along with bike(s) in place, to someone using the ladder to get to anything on the rooftop. Like say for example, a portable solar panel.

Did you decide against using the the two plastic bins in the Stowaway2? Thanks!

[wincrasher]

Good questions.

The Stowaway2 has 3 safety catches. First, on the drivers side, is a T handle screw-in bolt you twist down to secure the frame. Second, there is a pull-latch/catch you need to disengage to let the bin swing out. Third, there is a pin at the joint on the passenger side. So all three need to be released to let the bin swing free. At camp, I generally release the T handle screw and the pin. That leaves the latch to let it swing out.

If you left it in the swung out position, then there is a position for the passenger side pin to be inserted to hold the bin in that position.

As far as the interior goes, I'm using 2 plastic storage bins in the bottom for my junk. The space on the sides and front for folding chairs, tables, lantern posts, etc. On top of the bins I place the grill, the campfire and my leveling blocks. In the lid, there is a lip that will hold my camp rug.

Since the bins are so big, I still have lots of room for other things that I may pic up along the way. Extra sewer hose, water hoses and fishing rods are in the Valterra tubes (2 tubes on the van, 2 tubes mounted on the Stowaway).

Yes, to use the ladder, you have to swing out the Stowaway, as well as open the door with the bikes on it. At camp, not really an issue, as you can leave the Stowaway swung out, and you've probably removed the bike and folded up the rack (so you can climb the ladder with it in that position, without having to open the door).