Let’s Talk About Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray
For those of us who enjoy the freedom of RVing or utilize trailers for work or leisure, the secure transport of propane (LP) bottles is paramount. The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray promises to be a robust and versatile solution. Manufactured by Outdoors Unlimited, this tray boasts a heavy-duty steel construction and universal design to accommodate both 20-pound and 30-pound LP tanks, offering peace of mind on the road.
I was personally searching for a more secure and reliable way to transport my propane tanks on my off-road trailer build. The factory-supplied straps never felt adequate, especially when navigating rough terrain. I wanted something that bolted directly to the trailer frame and wouldn’t allow the tanks to shift or bounce.
My initial unboxing experience revealed a well-constructed tray with a durable powder coat finish. The steel gauge felt substantial, and the included hardware appeared complete and ready for installation. Compared to flimsy, plastic trays I’ve seen elsewhere, the Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray immediately impressed with its heft and apparent quality. I considered options from Stromberg Carlson and Camco, but the Outdoors Unlimited model seemed to offer a more robust mounting solution and a better fit for both my 20lb and 30lb tanks without needing separate trays.
My first impression was positive. This wasn’t a flimsy, “good enough” solution. It felt like a properly engineered piece of equipment designed to withstand the rigors of travel. I was genuinely excited to install it and see how it performed on the road.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved a weekend camping trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains, notorious for their winding, unpaved access roads. I secured a 20lb propane tank in the Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray and put it through its paces. The tray mounted securely to the trailer frame, and the threaded rod and hold-down bracket kept the tank firmly in place, even when traversing rocky sections of the trail.
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray performed flawlessly in dry conditions. I did not experience any rain, however, the powder-coated finish seemed ready to handle anything mother nature threw at it. Ease of use was excellent; it took only minutes to secure the tank. Initially, the wing nut handle felt a little stiff, but a little lubrication solved that problem. I was pleasantly surprised at how quiet the entire setup was, even on bumpy roads. No rattles, no shifting, just a secure and stable propane tank.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and thousands of miles logged across various terrains, the Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray has proven its worth. The powder coat finish shows no signs of chipping or rust, even after exposure to road salt and mud. The mounting points remain solid, and the threaded rod still secures the tank tightly.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the tray clean. The tray has outperformed my expectations significantly. It’s far superior to the generic straps I used previously, and it provides a level of security and peace of mind that’s well worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray
Specifications
- The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray features a new 13-gauge steel powder coat finish. This ensures excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability.
- The tray is designed for use with a variety of trailers. Its universal design accommodates different mounting configurations.
- It includes two pieces of threaded rods. One rod is specifically designed for 20-pound tanks and the other for 30-pound tanks.
- A zinc-plated hold-down bracket and wing nut handle are included. This makes securing the LP tank simple and reliable.
- The base of the tray has a cut-out for routing the LP hose. This thoughtful design prevents kinking and ensures a clean and organized setup.
These specifications are crucial for a safe and reliable LP tank mounting solution. The heavy-gauge steel and powder coat finish guarantee longevity, while the threaded rods and hold-down bracket provide a secure grip on the tank. The hose cut-out is a small but significant detail that demonstrates attention to user needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds both 20-pound and 30-pound LP tanks, preventing shifting and rattling during transit. The included hardware is easy to use, and the hose cut-out is a practical addition.
The tray’s strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. However, the wing nut handle could be slightly larger for easier tightening. Overall, the tray far exceeds my expectations for a universal LP bottle mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray boasts a functional and well-thought-out design. The heavy-gauge steel construction provides a solid and durable base, while the powder coat finish adds a layer of protection and a clean aesthetic. The weight of the tray reflects its robust build quality.
The design is user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. The threaded rods and hold-down bracket are intuitive to use, and the hose cut-out simplifies installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray is built to last. The heavy-gauge steel construction and powder coat finish ensure long-term durability, even in harsh outdoor conditions. The tray requires minimal maintenance.
A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functional. The materials used are resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray includes all the necessary hardware for secure tank mounting. There are no included accessories beyond the threaded rods, hold-down bracket, and wing nut.
While there are no specific customization options offered by Outdoors Unlimited, the tray’s universal design allows for compatibility with various aftermarket accessories. For example, users could add a padlock to the wing nut for added security or use different mounting bolts to accommodate unique trailer frame configurations.
Pros and Cons of Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray
Pros
- Durable 13-gauge steel construction with a powder coat finish ensures long-lasting performance.
- Universal design accommodates both 20-pound and 30-pound LP tanks, providing versatility for different needs.
- Secure hold-down bracket and wing nut provide a tight and reliable grip on the tank, preventing movement during transit.
- Integrated hose cut-out prevents kinking and ensures a clean and organized LP system.
- Easy to install and maintain, making it a user-friendly solution for any trailer or RV owner.
Cons
- The wing nut handle could be larger for easier tightening, especially in cold weather.
- No included padlock or locking mechanism for added security against theft.
Who Should Buy Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray?
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray is perfect for RV owners, trailer users, overland adventurers, and anyone who needs to securely transport propane tanks. It’s ideal for those who value durability, versatility, and ease of use. Campers and mobile workers requiring gas/propane should greatly consider this product.
This product might not be necessary for individuals who only occasionally transport propane tanks short distances. If price is the most important factor, this product may not be for you. A simple strap system may suit their needs better.
A must-have accessory is a padlock for the wing nut. You could also consider a rubber mat for extra grip between the bottle and tray.
Conclusion on Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray
The Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray is a well-designed and robust solution for securely transporting propane tanks on trailers and RVs. Its durable construction, universal design, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values safety and peace of mind on the road. The value proposition is excellent; the price is justified by the quality and functionality of the product.
I would personally recommend the Outdoors Unlimited Universal Lp Bottle Tray to anyone in need of a reliable LP tank mounting solution. It is a significant upgrade from generic straps and provides a level of security that’s well worth the investment. Upgrade your propane tank security today!