When it comes to overlanding, off-roading, or extended road trips, one of the most overlooked yet essential accessories is a reliable fridge and with that you might want to invest in a slide. For anyone who owns a portable fridge/freezer, having a secure and accessible way to retrieve your food and drinks is pretty essential. One option on the market is the Front Runner Fridge Slide, a high-quality, rugged, and well-engineered fridge slide that ensures easy access and optimal organization while you’re on the road. It also pairs well with the Front Runner Tailgate Table on our Jeep Wrangler.
What is a Fridge Slide?
If you’re a hard-core overlander, you can skip to the next paragraph. But for those who are new to the scene or are constantly struggling with moving coolers or fridges in and out of the back of your vehicle, this might be the answer for you. A fridge slide for overlanding is a sliding tray or platform (think kitchen drawer) designed to securely hold a portable 12V fridge/freezer in a vehicle while allowing easy access. It is typically mounted in a truck bed, SUV cargo area or even in a trailer. Sliding rails let you pull the fridge out for convenient access and bring convenience to a new level. Now you don’t need to go out and buy an expensive fridge to reap the benefits, a fridge slide can work with heavy coolers such as a YETI or even heavy cargo such as power tools you access on a regular basis.
Build Like a Tank
The Front Runner Fridge Slide is manufactured in South Africa and designed to withstand extreme off-road conditions. I mean what better place to test Front Runner gear then in the African Outback. It is constructed from high-strength steel, coated with a black powder coat finish that not only blends in with black interiors but also provides superior corrosion resistance. This is particularly important for overlanders who often traverse muddy, sandy, or humid environments or when mounted to trailers. The robust construction ensures longevity, making it a one-time investment that will last for years. Be prepared when you first it it up, it is not lightweight.
The slide operates on high-quality roller bearings, allowing for a smooth and effortless glide even when fully loaded. Unlike cheaper alternatives, there’s no wobbling or excessive lateral movement, giving you reliable stability even on uneven terrain. The release handle is sturdy and easy to use. The unit also come with four Dometic straps for securing your fridge to the slide.
Installation & Use
Mounting the Front Runner Fridge Slide is another story in itself. The package includes mounting hardware included for wood and metal surfaces allowing you to secure it to most flat surfaces with minimal effort. Pre-drilled mounting holes simplify the process, making it compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, pickup trucks, and custom-built expedition trailers.
Once installed, using the slide is a breeze. It features a simple yet effective locking mechanism, ensuring that the fridge remains secure while driving. The one-handed operation makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to slide the fridge in and out effortlessly, even while juggling other gear or supplies.
Now here is the issue, and this is from a JeepWrangler owner. If I am mounting this on a trailer or into a wood surface, I am feeling pretty confident. Drilling holes in my floor of my $70,000 Jeep is going to be a big no for me. What I was able to do what to replace the plastic cargo hole cover with a sheet of plywood and wrap it in a black carpet from Menards.
Functionality & Design
The Front Runner Fridge Slide isn’t just about durability—it’s designed for maximum functionality. Its spacious platform accommodates most major fridge brands, including Dometic, ARB, Engel, and National Luna. Whether you own a 40L compact fridge or a 95L full-size unit, the fridge slide can handle the weight and size with ease.
The slide extends almost fully, ensuring that you can access your fridge without having to reach awkwardly into your vehicle. This full-extension design is crucial for users who store perishable goods or want quick access to their beverages without fumbling in a confined space.
Another impressive aspect is its low-profile design. Unlike bulkier fridge slides, the Front Runner model sits closer to the mounting surface, minimizing wasted vertical space. This is particularly beneficial for vehicles with limited interior height, ensuring you still have ample room for additional storage above the fridge.
Performance
With a high weight capacity, this slide can easily handle fully loaded fridges without compromising its structural integrity. The smooth gliding mechanism ensures effortless operation, even when dealing with heavy loads. The locking mechanism further enhances safety, preventing any unintended movement during transit.
To put the Front Runner Fridge Slide to the test, we put it to the test on a 1,000+ mile road trip that included highways, mountain roads, dirt roads, and more rugged Jeep trails. The slide experienced zero rattling or movement during off-road travel or big bumps at highway speed,
- Flawless slide operation, even when covered in dust and dirt.
- Secure locking that held the fridge in place, no matter the incline or decline.
- No signs of wear or damage, proving its durability.
Beyond just being a fridge slide, the Front Runner model can double as a heavy-duty sliding tray for other camping and overlanding essentials. Users have successfully utilized it to store toolboxes, kitchen setups, and storage containers, proving its multi-functional value.
Additionally, Front Runner offers custom mounting solutions and optional accessories, such as tie-down straps and cargo barriers, enhancing its adaptability to different needs and setups.
Is the Front Runner Fridge Slide Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about overlanding, camping, or off-road travel or even epic road trips, investing in a high-quality fridge slide like the Front Runner model is a no-brainer. Its overbuilt construction, effortless operation, and versatile design make a solid contender in the market. The ability to travel with your own food and having easy access to it,n ot only saves money but is a healthier option. The pull out cutting board is an extra bonus as well.
For those looking to maximize their vehicle’s storage and functionality, the Front Runner Fridge Slide is a valuable addition to your overlanding setup. It’s a purchase you’ll appreciate every time you hit the road. I made a fridge and the slide a permement part of my Wrangler JL, it comes in handy when running errands, kids sports and more. It is not just for epic adventures.
The Front Runner fridge slide is available in 4 sizes and starts at $399.00 and can be ordered online at frontrunner.com or https://snp.link/7410d314
