Chapter 15
Our biggest mistake: drawer orientation
Hard braking naturally tries to open two of our heaviest drawers.
The pantry has launched across the van
Our pantry and cutlery drawers open toward the front of the van. Under hard braking, everything inside pushes in exactly the direction needed to open them. Our pantry drawer has launched across the van, full of food, while driving around 40 mph—more than once.
A latch should not depend entirely on memory
We added manual latches. They help, but only when we remember to use them. Whenever practical, orient large or heavy drawers so primary braking force is not trying to pull them open. For us, a perpendicular orientation would have been better. Add positive retention that engages whenever the drawer closes, selected for your own loads and hardware.
Bad
The stored weight helps pull the drawer open.
Better
Perpendicular orientation does not line up the forces.