Axe & Shovel Bracketry Help!

[ScottBailey]

I need help. I don't want to store my axe or shovel under the couch. I want the space for other, cleaner stuff. Having said that, I've basically narrowed my decision down to 2 bracket types and 2 mount locations.

See the attached pictures for the bracket choices. Prices are basically the same. The first option looks like it will hold better vertically, but won't have a padlock. The first option looks like it'll be easier to use, but more likely to loosen on the road (no padlock). The first option looks like it'll hold the tools more securely.

Mounting options are horizontal high on the driver side or vertical on the back. The side mount will be easier to install (bolt backings above the counter). The rear mount more aerodynamic with less mirror (and tree/bush) interference. The rear mount requires using fireproof tools (tools mounted near furnace exhaust) and/or removing tools before furnace use.

Does anyone have any experience with these options or even a better idea?

Thanks,
SB

 

[drakeslayer]

Who makes those mounts?

 

[Stan@FourWheel]

here are some sample pictures of where I have seen people put them ...

sorry I don't have any other suggestions

hopefully others will chime in with helpful tips & tricks

good luck on your project



.

 

[ScottBailey]

Who makes those mounts?
The first is a fire supply company (KWM maybe?), the second manufacturer is unknown, but 4wheelparts.com is the retailer.
here are some sample pictures of where I have seen people put them ...
Thanks, Stan! The pictures help.

If I had more time, I'm sure the best solution would simply be to fabricate it myself, but I have neither time nor skill...

 

[davinski]

Wow, nice pics stan. Gives me a few ideas. Always a problem storing stuff like that.....shovel, ax, jack, fuel/water.

I do think that the enterprising person (or company, wink wink wink) who came up with reliable ways to carry such items could stand to sell a fair number of them. If they were backwards compatible with older campers, I think it would be a great market. As a matter of fact, I'd probably buy one on the spot.....

Thanks

Dave in SEattle

 

[ScottBailey]

Two Day Shipping

I'd probably buy one on the spot.....

Send mine two day!

 

[craig333]

Thanks for reminding me of one more project I've been putting off. I really need to do that. I got stuck in the snow and did I remember to toss a shovel in the back? Much nicer just to have it at the ready all the time. I like the idea of at least partially tying it into the bumper for strength.

 

[Marc]

Scott,

Here is how i carry my High-Lift Jack and shovel. I use a combination of brackets from High-Lift and a set of fist clamps. My hatchet is stored inside. I think you could you use another set of fist clamps for an ax and mount it similiar to the way I mount my shovel.

Marc

 

[davinski]

Marc:

I like that mounting system. Keeps them neat and tidy. Still can use the door. Some questions, though.
1. can you lock them down?
2. did you have the rear wall reinforced?
3. does the jack sit with weight on the bumper or does the mounts hold all the weight?

dave in seattle

 

[Marc]

Davinski,

Yes you can lock it down
Yes the wall was reinforced
No it does not rest on the bumper.

I gave it alot of thought before I decided on this set-up, and for me it works real well. When not in us it is very simple to remove the jack/shovel. Also if I was to do it again I probably would have mounted the brackets behind the door as I later found out that there would have been enough clearance.

Tread Lightly

Marc

 

[davinski]

Marc:

Ah, good to hear. It is that reinforced thing that kills me. I don't think the wall can handle the weight and the rough roads with that hanging on . Was thinking maybe having it rest on the bumper, but this might call for tighter tollerances on the mounting.

Ideally, if there were enough room, i would love to mount this behind the door with jack, shovel, ax there. Then mount 1 or two 5g fuel/water cans to the other side.

In a perfect world.

thanks, anyhow for the idea

Dave

 

[flinchlock]

I tried and tried and tried and tried to get Ben to reinforce my Cougar to also mount a hi-jack jack, but he and Marty would not do it. See this post => http://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/showpost.php?p=11432&postcount=10

Also, Marc does not have the furnace, but I do and there is noway to even mount the hi-lift jack on the left side of the door.

Mike