Rear Drawers and Kitchen - Do's and Don'ts

[bring_it_on]

Hello All,

This forum has some really cool builds and information about how best to optimize space in the rear of the truck to suit ones needs. We also have threads dedicated to the various custom and branded storage system set ups possible in the back. I've used some of those as a guide in developing my own plan for a rear system and thought that a thread that covers tips, do's and don'ts would be very helpful for me and others researching this down the road.

In my 2 previous 4x4 rigs, I usually packed totes and ammo boxes and that was sufficient for most of my needs. However with this rig I wanted something that was more permanent, balanced weight and convenience and was easy to RO/RO (at least some aspects of it) when not camping to maintain the utility of the large and spacious cargo area.

With that in mind, I'd appreciate if some of those who have experience with permanent drawer/kitchen systems could shed some light on what they think works/doesn't work. These are just some of the things that came to mind -

- Optimal drawer height (most of the ones that I see range from 6 inches to 12 inches) from a practicality perspective (storage inside and the ability to store on top of the box system)
- Optimal drawer length ( I think these range from 24" deep to 36" deep)?
- One large drawer vs splitting it into two drawers?
- One drawer and a slide out kitchen module or two drawers with fridge slide on top?
- Balance between the number of drawers and free space to store items of various sizes on top (I've seen rigs packed to the roof with drawers and others where there is more flexibility)


MODS - Sorry if there is a thread like this already. I searched and found some really cool threads on builds and drawer system reviews so thought that a thread covering some of the best practices and tips would serve the community well.

 

[GunRock0811]

Hello All,

This forum has some really cool builds and information about how best to optimize space in the rear of the truck to suit ones needs. We also have threads dedicated to the various custom and branded storage system set ups possible in the back. I've used some of those as a guide in developing my own plan for a rear system and thought that a thread that covers tips, do's and don'ts would be very helpful for me and others researching this down the road.

In my 2 previous 4x4 rigs, I usually packed totes and ammo boxes and that was sufficient for most of my needs. However with this rig I wanted something that was more permanent, balanced weight and convenience and was easy to RO/RO (at least some aspects of it) when not camping to maintain the utility of the large and spacious cargo area.

With that in mind, I'd appreciate if some of those who have experience with permanent drawer/kitchen systems could shed some light on what they think works/doesn't work. These are just some of the things that came to mind -

- Optimal drawer height (most of the ones that I see range from 6 inches to 12 inches) from a practicality perspective (storage inside and the ability to store on top of the box system)
- Optimal drawer length ( I think these range from 24" deep to 36" deep)?
- One large drawer vs splitting it into two drawers?
- One drawer and a slide out kitchen module or two drawers with fridge slide on top?
- Balance between the number of drawers and free space to store items of various sizes on top (I've seen rigs packed to the roof with drawers and others where there is more flexibility)


MODS - Sorry if there is a thread like this already. I searched and found some really cool threads on builds and drawer system reviews so thought that a thread covering some of the best practices and tips would serve the community well.

Brian's Favorite from Goose Gear. Stove and fridge slide, plus a drawer next to it. Still enough free space for an insulated 5gal jug and propane tank on drawer.

 

[bring_it_on]

Brian's Favorite from Goose Gear. Stove and fridge slide, plus a drawer next to it. Still enough free space for an insulated 5gal jug and propane tank on drawer.

Thanks. It is indeed a great system (practical and a good looking set up) though not the one that I will be going in for.

I ordered the goose gear plate last week and will likely be choosing a different drawer option. The reason is that I want space in there so that the system can be bolted on the plate and left there for good without the need to remove these units when using the rig as a daily. I live in an apartment so don't want to be hauling the kitchen system up and down every time I need to use the trunk for luggage, strollers for the kids, and day to day stuff. Would prefer that I just remove the fridge when not in use and leave most of everything else as is. I think quite a few who may be thinking of doing a drawer system would probably also be in a similar situation of using the rig as a daily and needing the flat space.

Having said that, I'm finding it difficult to pick drawer heights. The options are 8, 10 and 12 inch and I guess you could always go custom (I recall that one of the members had a 6" set up as well). For non Goose Gear off the shelf options height is again between 6 and 12 inches. Having looked at the 12" drawer systems from frontrunner and a few others, I'm pretty sure that I don't want that. Which leaves 8 and 10 inches. I'm sure that fitting a fridge above one (on a slide) won't be much of a concern (getting it to fit, slide in and out) as frontrunner, dobinsons and others fit a fridge on top of the 12 inch drawers and they work fine. So then it comes down to how much room do I want on top of the drawers to stack up ammo boxes when camping or how much room for travel bags and other equipment when being used as a daily.

Right now, the type of system that I like the most is this from member uptheirons linked below. But again, since I haven't used anything this organized ever, would love to here from those who have in terms of what sized system (LxWxH and # of drawers) works well when combined with other things like ammo boxes and other cases.

https://www.toyota-4runner.org/2231260-post5.html

 

[IASTATE01]

Sorry, I don't have a real answer but thought I could ask a similar question: Is there problems with building a very short drawer system of about 4" tall?

We use the 4Runner for a lot of different things and can use most of the space in back for groceries, suitcases, and bargains off Craigslist. So I am thinking 4" drawers(6" total height to put tie-downs, hitches, ice scrapers, etc. and still have almost full usable space. Plus it would be easy to add a fridge on top in the future.

I am planning to add extra plywood on top of the drawers and could then use them as a pullout work surface.
Ryan

Hello All,

This forum has some really cool builds and information about how best to optimize space in the rear of the truck to suit ones needs. We also have threads dedicated to the various custom and branded storage system set ups possible in the back. I've used some of those as a guide in developing my own plan for a rear system and thought that a thread that covers tips, do's and don'ts would be very helpful for me and others researching this down the road.

In my 2 previous 4x4 rigs, I usually packed totes and ammo boxes and that was sufficient for most of my needs. However with this rig I wanted something that was more permanent, balanced weight and convenience and was easy to RO/RO (at least some aspects of it) when not camping to maintain the utility of the large and spacious cargo area.

With that in mind, I'd appreciate if some of those who have experience with permanent drawer/kitchen systems could shed some light on what they think works/doesn't work. These are just some of the things that came to mind -

- Optimal drawer height (most of the ones that I see range from 6 inches to 12 inches) from a practicality perspective (storage inside and the ability to store on top of the box system)
- Optimal drawer length ( I think these range from 24" deep to 36" deep)?
- One large drawer vs splitting it into two drawers?
- One drawer and a slide out kitchen module or two drawers with fridge slide on top?
- Balance between the number of drawers and free space to store items of various sizes on top (I've seen rigs packed to the roof with drawers and others where there is more flexibility)


MODS - Sorry if there is a thread like this already. I searched and found some really cool threads on builds and drawer system reviews so thought that a thread covering some of the best practices and tips would serve the community well.

 

[bring_it_on]

I think that is doable as long as you have most of the stuff that you would want to store there that is shorter than that height. Also, consider the type of cabinets you will be choosing as internal and external dimensions vary considerably. A 4" tall drawer may net you around 2.5" of usable space depending upon what type you build.

 

[Jetboy]

There's a million different configurations of pre-made slide-out kitchen assemblies. Generally they run from $400-$1,000 depending on how you configure them. The biggest cost is usually shipping. Probably around $3-500 to get on shipped from China if you order directly from the manufacturer. Depending on your budget and how fancy you want your setup to be - they could be a good option.

My general tips if you're building yourself: buy HD slides. They don't have to be super expensive, but don't use the regular home depot kitchen drawer slides - they aren't strong enough to hold up long term. If you do use the - at least double them up. Jeep hood latches - the rubber ones - work well to hold the drawers in place on the road. That's what I use on my DIY fridge slide out in my camp trailer. Cheap. Easy. And functional. They last about 5 years before the rubber goes bad in my experience.

Plan on a drop down leg for when the kitchen is rolled out. having it stable on the ground will help a lot, but also make sure that it won't break it if someone climbs in or moves around in the vehicle while it's down. Some flex is a good thing here if you have more than one person along.

If you don't go with a kit kitchen setup already - still buy the premade RV mini-sinks and such. They make assembly really fast and easy and probably still end up costing less than buying all the parts and hardware separately.

You always need more table top space. No matter how much it has - it's never enough. I always end up with a portable table, so I'd just plan on having space for a fold up table.

 

[GuySmiley]

.

Jetboy, do you have a source for this slide out kitchen unit?

 

[Jetboy]

Jetboy, do you have a source for this slide out kitchen unit?

Not specifically. You can find a variety of vendors on Alibaba and contact them. I order a fair amount of stuff from various Alibaba vendors and generally have not had any issues with it. It's kinda like chinese ebay - sort of. They are usually pretty fast about responding to inquires about products, shipping costs, etc.

Just as an example; Rv Caravan Camp Outdoor Kitchen Diy Slide Out Kitchen For Sale - Buy Rv Outdoor Kitchen,Diy Rv Outdoor Kitchen,Camper Trailer Kitchen Product on Alibaba.com

Most "overland" camp trailers and kits you'll see are made by these same manufacturers. Usually the sellers are mostly just importers of off the shelf products from a few chinese manufacturers.

 

[comtn4x4]

Look at the Drifta kitchen systems out of Australia. They make a variety of things that can be paired with drawer systems or not depending on what you want. Kakadu Camping in Vancouver can import anything you want from them. They bring a container over quarterly then can ship to a freight depot. I have some drawers coming in the next container so I'll do a review, however Drifta is well known for quality innovative products.



As far as general setup goes, I have been re-configuring things lately to make life easier at camp. In hindsight I think on my bumper I should have gone a single full length swing out, preferably pivoting on the passenger side. That paired with a 180 degree awning on the driver side would create a good work flow from the hatch around to the awning. It would also allow for good access to the 12v power on the passenger side to run a water pump off of and a light for the work table. Although a always hot line directly to the battery could be run on either side and I think is better. Also a full length single swing out has a wider work table which would fit a stove better. Just a couple thoughts


Drifta Camping & 4WD - Camping Gear, Trailers, 4WD Drawers & Kitchens


Drifta, MSA, Ark, Maxtrax, Quick Pitch and Max Coupler overland gear!


– Kakadu Camping


The 4runner specific drawer system is only listed on the Kakadu website BTW

 

[bring_it_on]

Look at the Drifta kitchen systems out of Australia.

I have had an opportunity of checking their drawer system out in person a couple of years ago (in Sydney). Honestly, from a space management perspective, the system is a hit but the fit and finish and overall quality is not really something that one would want to spend more to import IMHO.

 

[comtn4x4]

I have had an opportunity of checking their drawer system out in person a couple of years ago (in Sydney). Honestly, from a space management perspective, the system is a hit but the fit and finish and overall quality is not really something that one would want to spend more to import IMHO.

The dollar is pretty strong so it was actually more affordable than similar systems purchased here. And I was able to get it customized which no one here does. The systems I have seen in Vancouver were well built so I'm hoping quality hasn't slipped.

 

[bring_it_on]

I have had an opportunity of checking their drawer system out in person a couple of years ago (in Sydney). Honestly, from a space management perspective, the system is a hit but the fit and finish and overall quality is not really something that one would want to spend more to import IMHO.

That is good to know. Perhaps what I saw was just one of their older models. My concern was just in case the prices, with shipping etc, began creeping up to what we'd pay here for stuff from say a Goose Gear then it was not worth it IMO. But one thing about most tried and tested Aussie products is that they'll last a good while and generally take abuse even though overall fit and finish might vary. My brother has been living there for 8 years now and the 4x4 community is large and generally is willing to spend good money for quality products. They have crappy things too (Kings etc) but generally word travels fast within their community and either the product gets discontinued or modified or gets heavily discounted.

 

[proptied]

Look at the Drifta kitchen systems out of Australia.

I run Drifta. Got them from Matt at Kakadu as well. When the fridge comes out I have a nice flush surface. There's little side wings to make it flat across the entire back but I haven't cut mine yet. The table was a huge and valuable bonus.

 

[comtn4x4]

I run Drifta. Got them from Matt at Kakadu as well. When the fridge comes out I have a nice flush surface. There's little side wings to make it flat across the entire back but I haven't cut mine yet. The table was a huge and valuable bonus.

Looks great! You're happy with them?
I had my drawers made a bit shorter (10") and with no side wings. I also added some extra flush tie downs to total 6 on the top. Looking forward to getting them

 

[proptied]

Looks great! You're happy with them?
I had my drawers made a bit shorter (10") and with no side wings. I also added some extra flush tie downs to total 6 on the top. Looking forward to getting them

Love them so far. Went with whatever they had already coming off the boat so I didn't do anything custom. Well worth the wait. The sliding action on the drawers is excellent too, even fully loaded.

 

[808_702_4Runner]

Here’s a shot of my camp kitchen over the past weekend. Fridge on a slide out, stove on the swing out. This gives me good access for cooking and is very functional. The 3 burners stove come in handy for larger meals and the dual zone fridge/freezer make long trips easy.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Krayziekid]

Here’s a shot of my camp kitchen over the past weekend. Fridge on a slide out, stove on the swing out. This gives me good access for cooking and is very functional. The 3 burners stove come in handy for larger meals and the dual zone fridge/freezer make long trips easy.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Now that is a SLICK setup. I am looking to build a very similar slide out for a fridge and table/cutting board like you have. When you have the fridge pulled out all the way, do you have any problems opening the lid with the hatch? Is it possible to open it up and get something when it's in the back and you just roll down the rear window?

 

[808_702_4Runner]

Now that is a SLICK setup. I am looking to build a very similar slide out for a fridge and table/cutting board like you have. When you have the fridge pulled out all the way, do you have any problems opening the lid with the hatch? Is it possible to open it up and get something when it's in the back and you just roll down the rear window?

With it pulled out there are no issues with clearance. I have access of both the freezer and fridge when it’s closed but the lid can’t open all the way. But you have enough space to add or remove items. If I do redesign the rear slides I will probably remove my 3rd row seating so I give more clearance. It should get me an extra 4 to 5 inches of space.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Jamccain]

Here’s a shot of my camp kitchen over the past weekend. Fridge on a slide out, stove on the swing out. This gives me good access for cooking and is very functional. The 3 burners stove come in handy for larger meals and the dual zone fridge/freezer make long trips easy.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

How do you have the propane tank mounted to your spare tire there??? Thanks.

Love the set up, going to try to replicate it myself.

 

[808_702_4Runner]

I used the Rock Slide EZ Rack and SoCal 5lb tank mount. The Rotopax are mounted the the EZ Rack also.

EZ Rack Kit Spare Tire Mount - Rock Slide Engineering
So-Cal Teardrops - Parts - 5 lb. LP Mount Bracket - Parts