Basement storage bin

[La.Paul]

I recently purchased a 2003 sea breeze lx 8311, and the driver's side basement storage bin behind rear tires (where water hookup is located) was destroyed by a blowout during transport. I called Ortega plastics, and they don't have the mold for bins, and I don't have enough bin left to have mold made. I've been told that these bins may be generic to other models of motorhomes, and I was wondering if anyone had experience with replacing these plastic bins? Thanks.

[mike9999]

I had the same thing happen on my 2001 Dolphin. Had to fix it in a hurry so I put plywood (1/2 or 5/8" I think) over the top of the plastic floor. I was able to screw it down with self drilling screws around the outside edge. It's flat now instead a little lower but has worked fine. Been using it that way for 2 years now.

Good luck

[La.Paul]

Did you cover the front area as well? I am concerned about rocks and road grime being thrown in the space from rear wheels, as it completely wiped out front of bin and about half of floor. Was thinking of just hanging or fastening truck mud flaps to cover this area.

[mike9999]

My storage compartment is metal on the front and side and rear, plastic on the bottom. The front was badly bent but not destroyed. I was able to bend it back with a large hammer and pry bar. I only had to put plywood on the bottom. Sound like yours is a little worse off. Good luck.

[Jeepster47]

La.Paul,
I had the drivers side rear three bay doors and bottom of the service (plumbing) bay area destroyed in a freeway accident. "The Paint Department" in Chino, CA rebuilt the doors and made a new black plastic bottom. Can not tell there was any damage after work done. Matched full body paint and graphics.
Ed

[La.Paul]

I think I may take the damaged part out and just get some thin metal grating tacked all the way around. Should protect from rocks and allow me to store hoses there.

[Edouard]

Did you consider a fiberglass replacement. A auto body-shop that does fiberglass, or a boat repair shop also, should be able to mold/fabricate a replacement, it's basically a large rectangular bucket with an open top and door access opening.

[La.Paul]

A local RV shop made a new bin for me out of aluminum, works well. On the other side I had a large hole also, but I was able to rivet some fenestrated aluminum to cover it, then fiberglassed over it and painted it primer gray to match. Turned out pretty good, doesn't look new but close enough.