Ford Transit Connect Racking:Guide

 

Installing Ford Transit Connect shelving is a game-changer for van owners looking to maximise their vehicle’s storage potential. This practical upgrade transforms a basic cargo area into an organised, efficient workspace. Ford Transit Connect shelving offers a range of benefits, from improved storage solutions to enhanced productivity for tradespeople, delivery drivers, and mobile business owners. Source

This comprehensive guide covers everything needed to install Ford Transit Connect shelving. It walks through the process of measuring and planning the layout, preparing the van for installation, and the step-by-step shelving installation process. The article also explores ways to optimise the shelving setup and provides tips on choosing the right racking system for specific needs. By the end, readers will have the knowledge to turn their Ford Transit Connect into a well-organised mobile workspace. See more 

Measuring and Planning Your Shelving Layout

Before installing Ford Transit Connect shelving, it is crucial to measure and plan the layout carefully. This step ensures that the racking system fits perfectly and maximises the available space in the van. A well-thought-out plan also helps to create an organised and efficient workspace.

Assessing your storage needs

The first step in planning Ford Transit Connect shelving is to assess storage needs. This involves considering the types of tools, equipment, and materials that need to be stored in the van. It is important to think about both current and future requirements to create a flexible storage solution.

For tradespeople, delivery drivers, and mobile business owners, storage needs may vary. Some may require space for large tools, while others might need compartments for small parts or paperwork. By identifying specific storage requirements, it becomes easier to choose the right racking system and design an effective layout.

Taking accurate measurements Ford Transit Connect Racking

Accurate measurements are essential for a successful Ford Transit Connect shelving installation. The van’s interior dimensions, including length, width, and height, need to be carefully measured. It is important to note that the Transit Connect comes in two wheelbase options: short wheelbase (SWB) and long wheelbase (LWB).

For the SWB model, the load area is 1,786mm long at the floor and 1,269mm from floor to roof. The LWB variant has a cargo area length of 2,152mm at the floor and the same height of 1,269mm. These measurements are crucial when selecting and designing the shelving system.

It is also important to consider the width between the wheel wells, which is approximately 1,219mm (48 inches) in the Transit Connect. This measurement is particularly relevant when planning the lower shelves or storage units.

Choosing the right shelving materials

Selecting the appropriate materials for Ford Transit Connect shelving is crucial for durability and functionality. Many van owners opt for plywood racking due to its strength and versatility. Pre-finished plywood is a popular choice as it repels dust and is easier to clean than unfinished wood.

For a more robust solution, metal racking systems are available. These are often made from reinforced galvanised steel, providing excellent durability and load-bearing capacity. Some systems combine metal frames with wooden shelves, offering a balance of strength and flexibility.

When choosing materials, it is important to consider the weight of the shelving system itself. The Transit Connect has a payload capacity that must not be exceeded, so lightweight yet strong materials are often preferred.

Many racking systems are designed to fit the specific contours of the Ford Transit Connect, making installation easier and ensuring a secure fit. Some manufacturers offer pre-designed modules that can be combined to create a customised storage solution.

By carefully assessing storage needs, taking accurate measurements, and choosing the right materials, van owners can create an effective and efficient shelving layout for their Ford Transit Connect. This thoughtful planning process lays the foundation for a well-organised and productive mobile workspace.

Preparing Your Ford Transit Connect for Installation

Before installing Ford Transit Connect shelving, it is essential to prepare the van’s interior properly. This preparation ensures a smooth installation process and helps to create an organised and efficient workspace.

Removing existing interior components

The first step in preparing the Ford Transit Connect for shelving installation is to remove any existing interior components. This may include old shelving units, floor mats, or other accessories that are no longer needed. To begin, one should remove the door cards to access the inner workings of the van. This process involves unscrewing various Phillips screws located around the door panel and carefully detaching any wiring connectors for mirrors or speakers.

Once the door cards are removed, it becomes easier to access and remove other interior components. It is important to keep track of all screws and small parts during this process, as they may be needed later for reinstallation.

Cleaning and prepping the van interior Ford Transit Connect Racking

After removing the existing components, the next step is to thoroughly clean and prep the van’s interior. This is crucial for maintaining a tidy work van and protecting equipment. A clean interior also boosts efficiency and keeps the cargo van organised.

To clean the Ford Transit Connect interior effectively, one should:

• Create a cleaning schedule: Regular cleaning prevents dirt and dust build-up. It is advisable to pack away equipment daily and perform a deep cleaning weekly.

• Remove clutter: Clear out any unnecessary items or equipment from the van. This helps to maximise space and improve organisation.

• Wipe up spills immediately: If any chemicals or liquids are spilled on shelves or surfaces, they should be cleaned right away to prevent stains or corrosion.

• Clean vents and hard-to-reach areas: Pay special attention to vents, gaps behind seats, and other areas where dirt tends to accumulate.

Installing floor protection (optional)

While not mandatory, installing floor protection in the Ford Transit Connect can provide numerous benefits. It helps to protect the original van floor, offers better traction, and can make maintenance easier.

There are various options for van flooring, including:

• Rubber floor mats: These are available in ‘Standard’ and ‘Heavy Duty’ options. They are durable, easy to clean, and provide excellent slip resistance.

• Carpet floor mats: These come in different quality options, from standard to luxury, offering a balance of comfort and durability.

• Custom-fit floor liners: These are specifically designed to fit the Ford Transit Connect and provide comprehensive floor protection.

When choosing floor protection, it is important to consider factors such as durability, ease of cleaning, and compatibility with the planned shelving system. Some shelving installations may require a wood base covering the floor to screw the shelves onto, so this should be taken into account when selecting floor protection.

By thoroughly preparing the Ford Transit Connect interior, removing unnecessary components, cleaning thoroughly, and considering floor protection options, one can create an ideal foundation for installing a new shelving system. This preparation not only facilitates the installation process but also contributes to the overall functionality and longevity of the van’s interior setup.

Step-by-Step Shelving Installation Process

The installation of Ford Transit Connect shelving requires careful attention to detail and proper execution of each step. This process transforms the van’s interior into an organised and efficient workspace. Here’s a comprehensive guide to installing shelving in a Ford Transit Connect:

Mounting the vertical uprights

To begin the shelving installation, one must first mount the vertical uprights. These provide the foundation for the entire racking system. The process involves:

• Identifying the correct mounting locations: Use existing mount points in the van to avoid drilling new holes. This is crucial as the fuel tank is close to potential drilling areas.

• Preparing the brackets: The kit typically includes rear and forward mounting brackets. These are designed to fit specific locations in the Transit Connect.

• Attaching the brackets: Use the provided hardware, such as bolts, lock washers, and regular washers. It’s important to leave the bolts slightly loose at this stage to allow for adjustments later.

• Installing the floor bracket: Remove the D-ring bracket and reuse the bolt to secure the floor bracket. This bracket should point towards the front of the van.

Attaching horizontal shelves

Once the vertical uprights are in place, the next step is to attach the horizontal shelves. This process involves:

• Positioning the shelf: Carefully lift the shelf into place, avoiding dragging it to prevent damage to the floor or the shelf itself.

• Aligning the shelf: Ensure the shelf aligns properly with the mounted brackets.

• Securing the shelf: Use the hardware provided with the shelf, including hex bolts, nylon lock nuts, and washers. Start by loosely attaching all hardware to allow for adjustments.

• Making adjustments: Shift the shelf as needed to ensure proper alignment before fully tightening all hardware.

Securing additional components

To complete the Ford Transit Connect shelving installation, several additional components need to be secured:

• Installing upper mounting brackets: These brackets provide extra stability to the shelving unit. They often require drilling new holes in the van’s interior, so careful measurement and marking are essential.

• Adding floor protection: While optional, installing floor protection can enhance durability and make maintenance easier. Options include rubber floor mats, carpet floor mats, or custom-fit floor liners.

• Attaching accessories: Depending on the chosen racking system, additional components like ladder stoppers, guides, or straps may need to be installed.

• Final adjustments and tightening: Once all components are in place, make final adjustments to ensure everything is level and properly aligned. Then, tighten all hardware securely.

By following these steps, one can successfully install Ford Transit Connect shelving, creating a customised storage solution that maximises the van’s interior space and improves overall efficiency for various professional needs.

Optimising Your Shelving Setup

Once the Ford Transit Connect shelving is installed, the next step is to optimise the setup for maximum efficiency. This involves making the most of the available space and creating a system that allows for easy access to tools and equipment.

Adding dividers and bins

To enhance organisation within the Ford Transit Connect shelving system, adding dividers and bins is a practical solution. Modular bins with transparent fronts and optional dividers make it easy to see and organise contents. These bins are particularly useful for storing small items such as screws, nuts, and bolts.

For larger items, durable transport bins can be used on both top shelves and in interior systems with shelf widths of 260mm and 410mm. These bins are ideal for storing and transporting items of various sizes, making them a versatile addition to the van shelving setup.

Shelf dividers are another useful accessory that helps to better organise shelf contents. They create separate compartments within a single shelf, allowing for more efficient use of space and preventing items from mixing or shifting during transit.

Incorporating tool holders and hooks

To maximise the functionality of the Ford Transit Connect shelving, incorporating tool holders and hooks is essential. Perforated panels make it easy to hang up tools and accessories, keeping them readily accessible and preventing clutter on the shelves.

Various types of hooks can be added to the shelving system, including single hooks, double hooks, and cable hooks. These are perfect for hanging extension cables, hoses, and other frequently used items. Tool racks with holes in different diameters can hold a range of everyday tools, from wrenches to screwdrivers.

For specific items, specialised holders can be installed. These include gas bottle holders, spray can holders, and clamp fixes that can be mounted on the gable, shelf edge, or tool panel. These additions ensure that every tool has its designated place, making it easier to find and access equipment when needed.

Maximising vertical space Ford Transit Connect Racking

One often overlooked aspect of Ford Transit Connect shelving is the vertical space. Making use of this area can significantly increase storage capacity without compromising floor space. Installing shelves or cabinets up high is an excellent way to store less frequently used items while keeping them easily accessible.

When maximising vertical space, it’s important to consider the headroom needed for comfortable movement within the van. A popular approach is to install shelves that are slightly angled backwards. This design prevents items from falling out during transit while still allowing for easy access.

Another way to utilise vertical space is by incorporating multi-functional furniture. For example, a workbench that doubles as storage or a fold-down table can provide additional workspace without taking up permanent floor space.

By optimising the Ford Transit Connect racking setup with dividers, bins, tool holders, hooks, and clever use of vertical space, van owners can create a highly efficient and organised mobile workspace. This optimised setup not only improves productivity but also enhances the overall functionality of the Ford Transit Connect for various professional needs.

Conclusion Ford Transit Connect Racking

To wrap up, installing Ford Transit Connect racking shelving has a significant impact on transforming a basic cargo area into an organised, efficient workspace. This guide has walked through the key steps to measure, plan, and install a shelving system tailored to specific needs. By following these instructions, van owners can create a customised storage solution that maximises their vehicle’s potential.

The optimisation of the shelving setup is crucial to enhance productivity and functionality. Adding dividers, bins, tool holders, and hooks, along with clever use of vertical space, allows for a highly efficient mobile workspace. This well-organised setup not only boosts productivity but also improves the overall usefulness of the Ford Transit Connect for various professional needs. With these insights, van owners are well-equipped to turn their vehicle into a well-organised, functional mobile workspace.

FAQs Ford Transit Connect Racking

What are the frequent issues encountered with a Ford Transit Connect?
One common issue with the Ford Transit Connect is transmission problems. The transmission plays a crucial role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels, and any malfunction can lead to significant performance setbacks.

Why was the Ford Transit Connect discontinued?
Ford ceased the sale of the Transit Connect in the U.S. to cut global manufacturing costs and complexity, as well as due to a reduced demand in the compact van segment. Similar market exits have been seen from other manufacturers like Ram, General Motors, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz.

How can you effectively secure shelving in a van?
To prevent cargo from moving or falling off the shelves in a van, it’s advisable to use ratchet straps and bungee cords. These straps help maintain the position of items, safeguarding both the cargo and the shelving during transit. Ratchet straps can also be utilised to enhance the stability of commercial van shelving systems.