Advice on modding this cab

[kalikush]

Hey guys, Im not sure if this mod will destroy the stability of this cab, what do you guys think? The overall dims are 48" long, 36" tall and about 24" deep. Take a look on the very last page, of this instruction manual.

http://www.closetmaid.com/pdfs/12169.pdf

I for sure want to remove the middle shelf, and the vertical divider. I think that might be ok but I also would like to move the bottom shelf to the very bottom and maybe secure it with the small L brackets provided. Theres about a 2" gap under the entire cab, that I would like to include in the growing space if i can. Do you think that moving the bottom shelf to the floor and securing it there will weaken the structure. I want to put my mdf inline fan box, its about 35-40lbs, on top of the cab and dont want to compromise the cab stability. The very top piece is probably at least 1" thick mdf but the walls are thinner. I will also modify the back, which is basically just cardboard, and get 1/2" or so mdf paneling and secure with small L brackets. Any suggestions?

 

[Guest]

you can always screw in L braces at the corners to regain stability if you move the shelf.

 

[PharmaCan]

Mdf doesn't hold screws real well so the L brackets you want to use don't offer much support. I would glue the joints (carpenters glue - Elmer's) as I assembled the cab and attach the floor and back with small nails and glue. The nails are mostly going to hold things in place until the glue dries, so don't get carried away on the nail size.

PC

 

[FreezerBoy]

Small 45 degree triangles of masonite, nailed and glued to the corners of the cab, will perform the same function as L brackets.

 

[badgr]

Masonite, lol. I don't know about that that stuff is only 1/8" thick. I would just buy the right size cab if I was you. Thats the easy clean out and you will be happy with your decision if you plan on using the cab for awhile.

 

[FreezerBoy]

There's no such thing as the "right sized" cabinet. If it's rectangular, it's subject to flex. L brackets or triangles will greatly reduce that flex. If 1/8 is too thin, get 3/8.