DIY: Build A Storage and Transport System To Protect My Gear from All Elements

Why the RIDGID Pro Gear 2.0?

There are a lot of "pro" boxes on the market, but the 2.0 system has a few specific features that make it my preferred box:

• The Waterproof Gasket: This isn't just a "water-resistant" lid. The heavy-duty IP65-rated gasket creates a true seal, keeping road grime, salt spray, and humidity out of your expensive electronics or dry clothes.

• Modular Stackability: The boxes lock together securely using a side-latch system. I can stack a medium gear box on top of a large rolling base, and they won't slide around in the bed of the truck while hitting those back-road washboards.

• Off-Road Wheels: The attachment system for the wheels is robust. Instead of tiny plastic casters, these are 9-inch all-terrain wheels designed to handle gravel and dirt, making it easy to roll a full load of heavy gear.

• Size Versatility: From small parts organizers for terminal tackle to deep bins for bulky winter layers, the ecosystem allows you to build a kit that fits your specific needs.

• Readily Available & Reasonably Priced: One of the best perks is that I don't have to hunt these down at specialty shops. They are readily available at any Home Depot, and unlike some of the high-end "boutique" systems that cost a fortune, these are priced reasonably enough that you can build out a full stack for not too much money.

Storage Methods

I prefer using Orange Silica because it’s cobalt-chloride free and changes color (from orange to dark green) when it's saturated. You can use:

• Muslin Bags: Cheap, breathable, and easy to tuck into the corners of a bin.

• 3D Printed Boxes: If you have a printer, you can make custom vented containers that snap into the RIDGID lid organizers.

If you are storing gear long-term, toss a cheap digital hygrometer inside the box. Check it periodically and if that humidity reading starts climbing above 40–50%, it’s time to recharge the desiccant.

Pro Tip: If you have a 3D Printer…download these specially designed labels for the Ridgid boxes to keep things even more organized. Give me a Boost as its a pretty niche, but useful creation

DIY: How to Recharge Silica Desiccant

Don’t throw away your silica once it turns green. It’s infinitely reusable if you "bake" the moisture out of it. Here is my process:

Step 1: Prep the Trays

Spread your saturated (green) silica beads in a thin, even layer across the aluminum grill drip pans. The ridges in the pans help increase surface area.

Step 2: Set the Heat

Set your toaster oven to 250°F. Do not go higher, or you risk damaging the indicating crystals.

Step 3: Bake

Place the trays in the oven for 1 to 2 hours. You’ll know they are done when the beads have completely returned to their bright orange color.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Let the beads cool slightly, then immediately pour them into a plastic ammo box with a good gasket seal. If you leave them out on the counter to cool, they will immediately start pulling moisture from the air in your house.

Step 5: Deployment

Whenever a bag in your Pro Gear box looks "spent," swap it out for a fresh bag from your ammo can.