Vista 32K Compartment Question

[TeamD_NC]

I have a Vista 32K. The largest and best compartment is behind / under the couch next to the door. It is the perfect spot to store frequently accessed items such as kids toys, bug spay, shoes, etc. The only issue I have with it is that it is open to the coach above so when the kids open it and spend 5 minutes standing in front of it (for reasons I can't explain) all the cold air escapes and all the bugs fly in.

I have to assume there is a reason for having left this open to the coach, does anybody have an idea? There is no plumbing or tanks in the area that need to be kept warm.

Has anybody sealed it up? I'm considering making a removable panel from rigid foam insulation to seal it off from the living space. Thoughts?

Thanks

[inlineskater]

If you don't see a good reason for that to be open and there are no pipes or tanks in or near that compartment, I don't see why you couldn't seal it up. I have a 35G and don't have that compartment.

[sask66]

I have a 2012 32k and have thought about sealing it also. I also want to replace the jack knife couch with recliners and by sealing the opening that would create a better base for the replacement furniture. It might be a bit tricky as the outside cd radio is covered inside with a metal shroud that will need to be dealt with?

[jpspaz]

I thought about sealing mine until my wife discovered that it makes a great place for a clothes hamper. Our old rig had one in the bathroom but this one doesn't. So we put a laundry basket in there and drop the dirty clothes down between the couch and window. Works pretty well...

[Remus]

2008 Vista 32K I used a plywood cover with 2X4 on back edge for strength. Also removed valence in front of couch for storage underneath. Added cabinet doors to to ends of dinette seats for access without removing cushions. On the back side of U dinette holes were cut for access to that storage. Cabinet doors would have been in the way, so used velcro to secure carpet to cover openings.

[sask66]

Remus, is it possible to send pictures of those modifications? They sound interesting and effective.
Thanks.

[Remus]

Will try to get pictures in the morning.

[mgtr]

Or, you could just keep that compartment locked!

[sask66]

Decided to replace jack knife sofa with a double recliner. Removed old jack knife sofa, will put a 3/4 inch piece of plywood over opening. Removed the outside entertainment center to allow for recliner. Ordered the recliner from Amazon. Should work o.k.

[sask66]

Found out recliner will fit without removing the outside cd/radio. There is a metal protective shell over it but recliner is a wall hugger type and the base is far enough away so it doesn't interfere with the shell.