Sprinter Rear Compartment Door Prop Ideas

[Cendyj]

Looking for Ideas!! We have a rear slide on our 2015 Solera 24r with a large storage compartment door directly underneath. Because of its location, this door has no catch or latch to assist in keeping it open while using. It swings upward and is directly under the slide when open, and under the window when closed. Has anyone come up with any ideas as to how to prop or hold this fairly large door up just long enough to access needed items inside? We have considered trying to install a gas strut or possibly a latch of some sort that connects to the bottom of the slide, but worry it might damage the rubber gasket as it travels in/out. I just know someone has come up with a solution and hope you will share!! Thanks!

[AudiDudi]

I put a spring latch above the compartment (like the one on the passenger side dorr that opens upwards). I put it on with double backed tape for those times when someone forgets the door is up and latched and puts out the rear slide.

I did the same thing for the generator compartment which makes dumping the tanks much easier.

[Cendyj]

Thanks for the reply! That would definitely work when the slide is in, any ideas for when the slide is actually open?

[normtre]

I purchased a strut kit for the rear hatch on my 24r from Hatchlift.com. The hatch holds horizontally so that I can access storage when the slide is out. Easy install - drill and screwdriver.

[AudiDudi]

Originally Posted by Cendyj

Thanks for the reply! That would definitely work when the slide is in, any ideas for when the slide is actually open?

I try to make sure I have everything out before I put the slide out. Mostly chairs are needed and dolly straps put away. I try to avoid crawling under the slide to get stuff out.

[Mikegjax]

I use my head. It's not good for much else.

[kenandterry]

The only sure fire solution for if the slide is in or out........

Struts or your head. Your choice. Price will decide I guess.

[Tinbagel]

I use an extended hiking stick to prop it up.

[Karter]

I use our adjustable pole squeegee/scrubber against the inside lock mechanism. We carry it for windshield washing so it's always there. Very low tech!

[Cendyj]

Thanks for the ideas, folks! Tried the squeegee and the head, which usually wins on a pinch. We are looking into the struts as a permanent solution!

[TomAR]

Hatchlift, like this. One for each side:

[lacamastraveler]

I put two of these on (black). One wasn't enough to hold the door open; two works great.

https://www.amazon.com/MOTORHOME-ROU...3228625&sr=8-6

[lacamastraveler]

I forgot to mention. I bought stickon types because I didn't want drill holes

[AudiDudi]

Originally Posted by lacamastraveler

I forgot to mention. I bought stickon types because I didn't want drill holes

I also didn't want to drill holes and I used doubled sided tape. I only needed to install 1. I'd be afraid if they were screwed in and the slide was opened, you'd make a mess. I did the same thing for the side generator/dump valve compartment.

[TomAR]

The problem is not opening the sllde with the hatch open. However, CLOSING the slide could be a real issue. Never open the hatch and leave it open!!!

[TowPro]

I was thinking about this very problem today. Looking around the campground we are in I noticed some the hatchs are installed with the hinge is on the bottom so the door folds down.

[Cendyj]

Thanks, Tom! That looks like it would do the trick. Do you happen to remember the size that you ordered, as I see on the website that hatch lift has many options.

[TomAR]

I went directly to
https://www.hatchlift.com/hatchlift-kit
although they are also available on Amazon.
From the size chart, I picked 'Small", HLK-SM, and needed two kits. About $100 total.
I put a small wood block on the 'far' side of the lower mount, to help reinforce the compartment flange.
The trickiest part is figuring out exactly where to mount, on door and on frame. I'll take some measurements and PM you later in the week, ok?

[Cendyj]

Perfect!

[TomAR]

See pics