Lazy Daze Owners' Group

Frozen Outside Bin Doors

December 07, 2013, 08:23:40 am

Yahoo Message Number: 143979

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Oh wise ones,  How do I prevent my outside bin doors from freezing shut?  We're having an unusually cold snap here in western Washington and my outer bins are frozen shut. Unlike previous occasions, there isn't an obvious ice flow across the doors. It appears the gaskets are freezing shut. Tricks? Tips? I need to use the rig this winter... There's got to be a trick--too many of you use your rigs year - round.   Lori Y 2011 24FL

Re: Frozen Outside Bin Doors

Reply #2 – December 08, 2013, 09:00:31 am

Yahoo Message Number: 143988

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Joe's response was good.  Here is more.
 The cabinet doors will only freeze shut if there is moisture there.  That moisture can come from rain (you get that up there, right? ) or from condensation.  It is key to prevent moisture from STAYING there.  That means first, the gasket and the door edge must be absolutely clean.  Dust will hold moisture.  Once it is clean, you want something there that will shed moisture.  The owner's manual recommends a thin film of vaseline, which will work.  I don't know if 303 protectant will do the same.  It needs to be on both surfaces, so that if moisture appears, it is "rejected" by the surface, thus beading and running off.
 If 303 does this, it is a good choice because it dries and will not attract dust like vaseline.  I use vaseline because I can control it better and keep it off the finish.
 When I do it, I start with hot, soapy water and a rag.  I thoroughly clean both surfaces, then rinse with clean, warm water and dry.  I then do a wipe with isopropyl alcohol on a rag and clip the door open to dry thoroughly.  Finally, I put a little vaseline on a finger and rub it onto the surface.  There should be enough that the surface has a slight shine from the vaseline, but no real thickness or accumulation.  I remove excess by wiping with my finger.  That's it.

Ken F in NM

Re: Frozen Outside Bin Doors

Reply #4 – December 11, 2013, 01:35:40 am

Yahoo Message Number: 144027

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Thanks to all. I'll try a good cleaning & 303 once the weather lets me open them. ...then silicon...then vaseline. But I think 303 will work.

Lori Y 2011 24FL