Installing the Weather Guard 52" Shelf Door on Van Shelving
|
Posted in Installation Videos
An open shelf keeps tools within reach, but it also leaves them in plain sight every time the doors are open. A Weather Guard shelf door turns that shelf into a locking cabinet, and it only takes about 10 minutes to install. Here's the full process, plus how Weather Guard's key codes work so one key can run all your lockable accessories.
Installing the Weather Guard Shelf Door
We're installing the Weather Guard Shelf Door for 52" Shelf Units (Model 9505-3-01) on a Weather Guard adjustable shelf. The door measures 10.5" high by 50.5" wide, is built from steel with a Brite White ARMOR TUF powder coat, and locks with a D-handle lock. It mounts to the pre-punched holes on the front of the shelf unit, and all mounting hardware is included.
Before you start, scan the QR code on the one-page sheet in the box for Weather Guard's latest installation instructions.
What's in the kit
- The shelf door with the hinge built into the bottom edge
- Keys, tied to the lock mechanism
- Three brackets, including two smaller brackets for the outside edges
- Two support wires that set how far the door opens
- Foam strips to cut down on noise and vibration
- Mounting hardware, including two serrated lock nuts, nylock nuts, and carriage bolts with washers
Step-by-step installation
Step 1: Set the keys aside
The keys come tied to the lock mechanism. Untie them and put them somewhere safe so they don't get lost during the install.
Step 2: Orient the hinge
The hinge runs along the bottom of the door, and it needs to point down. It bolts to the front holes of the shelf below the opening, so the door swings down to open.
Step 3: Hang the door with the outer lock nuts
Start with the two serrated lock nuts in the outermost holes. Getting those two in first makes it a lot easier to hold the door in place while you're working against gravity.
Step 4: Square it up and tighten
Check that the door is square and sitting where you want it. Tighten the outermost holes first, then install and tighten the rest of the nylock nuts across the hinge.
Step 5: Install the side brackets
The two smaller brackets go on the outside edges. Each one lines up with an existing square hole in the bottom lip of the shelf above. Secure each bracket with a carriage bolt, washer, and lock nut.
Step 6: Choose your support wire position
The support wires set how far the door opens. The holes on the side of the door let you choose: go higher or lower depending on your setup. We used the second open hole from the top, which lets the door open about flat.
Step 7: Connect the support wires
On each side, run one bolt through the end panel, the bracket, and the end of the support wire. We used the second location down. The bracket doubles as a stop for the door and anchors the wire. Repeat on the other side.
Step 8: Add the foam
Stick the included foam strips onto the latch plate. They keep road noise and vibration down when the door is closed.
Step 9: Test the lock
Close the door, spin the handle to latch it, and test the lock with your keys.
How Weather Guard key codes work
Your keys are stamped with a code, and the lock cylinder has the same stamp. The outside of the box also lists the key code for that unit. Weather Guard lockable accessories typically use the same key, so if you add drawers or other locking accessories, one key can open everything.
Tips
Pair it with a back panel. Adding a Weather Guard back panel behind the door creates a fully enclosed cabinet, so nothing slides out the back.
Shop the Weather Guard Shelf Door for 52" Shelf Units
Building out the rest of the shelf? Browse all van shelving for back panels, drawers, and more.
FAQ
How long does the shelf door take to install?
About 10 minutes. The door bolts to existing holes on the shelf, and all the hardware is included.
Which way does the door open?
It's hinged at the bottom, so it swings down. Support wires on each side hold it in place when open.
Can I adjust how far the door opens?
Yes. The side holes let you set the support wires higher or lower. The second open hole from the top gives a flat opening.
What is the foam for?
The included foam strips go on the latch plate to reduce road noise and vibration while you drive.
Can I use one key for all my Weather Guard locks?
Weather Guard lockable accessories typically share the same key. Check the key code stamped on your keys, the lock cylinder, and the box.
We want you empowered to make your own upfitting decision. If you'd rather talk it through, our US-based upfit pros are ready to help.