Alternative Front Storage Basket

[jd1923]

Thanks @Steve Morris. I’ve always used the simple Ancra utility strap to tie down dirt bikes and motorcycles (for 30 years) and had not heard of Rollercam before. I’ll check them out!

There is the place for ratchet straps, but I prefer  a cam-lock for many needs. They’re smaller, quicker to mount and the large ratchet can bang and damage cargo if not placed carefully or wrapped.

Two quick pulls on two Ancra straps to the handlebars of my dirt bike and it’s mounted for travel in a minute!

https://ancracargo.com/utility-tie-downs/cam-buckle-strap-packs/

[Just Joe]

I want to first thank all in the group for indicating their concerns, and offering suggestions. 

I removed the side mounted gas cans, and upgraded to four substantial ratchet straps. The ones that I used around the generator have large hooks on each end. I crisscrossed the straps over the generator and wrapped them all the way around the tounge and hooked them to the main framing under the tounge on both sides. I also slid the generator over so it is now centered on top of the main framing and I looped one of the straps around the jack pole for added stability since the generator is now right next to it. I will watch for any wear on the straps and reroute them as necessary. 

Although we don't use our generator often, we wished we had it on a 45 day summer trip we took up the east coast into Canada in 2023 as there were a lot of overcast days when our solar panels couldn't keep up with our tired batteries. We took it with us on a 70 day trip back up North this year and used it about 20% of the time when the weather didn't cooperate and we were without hook-ups. Lifting it in and out of our truck's bed got old real quick. Letting it travel on the tounge of our Oliver will make things a lot easier when I need to pull it off and use it. For now, I will use the 2.5 gal no-spill gas can that I bought before this year's camping season and keep it secured inside our truck's bed as I did this year near the tail gate. I travel with the generator and gas tank empty and only fill them up at the end of the day when we get gas for our truck just before checking in at campgrounds where we won't have an electric connection. Prior to checking out I pour any remaining gas in the generator into the can and then into our truck. This way I'm not traveling with any gas in the generator, or in the gas can, and we are always using fresh gas when we need to use it. 

The basket that I have installed extends forward the same length as the Sea Biscuit basket and it is only 2" wider on the sides. The corners are rounded, although not quite as far back as the Sea Biscuit basket. The basket that I have left enough room for our dog's fold-up stroller which was the other item I found difficult to be pulling in and out of our truck's bed. I will confirm my ability to make sharp turns before heading out on our next trip. The quality of the Sea Biscuit products is unquestionable and I may switch out my basket for one of their containers in the future when our dog is no longer with us. For now, my wife always acts as my spotter when we're pulling in and out of campsites to keep me from hitting something so she can let me know if I'm getting too close to our truck's bumper. Thanks again for all your input. Joe 

[Ronbrink]

9 hours ago, Geronimo John said:

Sounds like these Roller Cam cam lock straps would be a great choice for battery hold downs.  

Thanks

GJ

Indeed, recommended two over the battery(ies), and good measure to fold the tag end back over the cam then use a tie wrap. However, the buckle type with a flip down lever seem more secure and reliable. Regardless, metal of choice is stainless steel with precautions taken to avoid contact with battery terminals. 

[topgun2]

1 hour ago, Ronbrink said:

with precautions taken to avoid contact with battery terminals. 

Unless it is the 4th of July! 🤯

(Note - just kidding here)