Hack #37 Drain Pipe Storage.

Some people avoid storing their drain hoses in the bumper as it tends to cause rusting issues.
Here is a great solution. Using 5″ x 5″ vinyl fence posts and caps along with 5″ vinyl gutters (modified), this makes for an easy way to store your drain pipes with easy slide-in/out access.

First cut the vinyl post to about the same length as the rear bumper.


Use PVC glue to attach one cap to one end (this will be the passenger side end). Paint it, and the other end cap, black. Start with a flat black primer designed for use on plastic. You can finish it off with a semi gloss or gloss if desired.

Attach latches to the cap and open end of the post. A locking toggle latch is best to prevent accidental opening while traveling.

You can also put a small hinge one one side and a clasp on the other but it may difficult to open. Trim the outer edge of the post to help with this if needed.


Use two 5″ wide by 6″ long square u-bolts to attach the post to the bottom of the frame. You made need longer bolts depending on where you are positioning the holder. Measure to be sure. You will need to drill holes through the lip of the frame for this. Be sure to paint the bare metal of the drilled hole with black enamel to prevent rust.

You can attach it with a homemade clamp style connection instead, if you are handy, to avoid drilling through the frame lip.

The most logical position is near the sewer connections but other lines running under your specific model may dictate another location.


Now, cut gutter to a length 1″ shorter than the post then cut the lip off of the gutter with a power saw such as a band saw or table saw. Hand power saws are OK but make it hard to cut this long of a cut nicely. Cut two pieces of a ¾” – 1″ dowel to about 4¾” long for the end handles. Attach them to the ends of the gutter using screws with a very flat head.


Simply slide the gutter assembly into the post. You can add pads to the bottom of the gutter to make it easier to slide if you wish.


Use a small padlock or D link to lock the clasp when the door is closed.