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Most of the questions have been answered, but here's my .02 I work out of my car, and have had the same issues.
1. Cupholders. Funky, but inadequate setup for me. I carry what used to be the standard in oversized plastic travel mugs. I've picked up the plastic cupholders that fit in the window channel from KMART types of places, but these are not ideal either, because every now and then you'll hook one moving the window.
I didn't like the larger adapters that fit in the dash holder, as the whole assembly seemed overtaxed and vibrated all over the place BEFORE putting a large cup in it. There are also the fold down ones which screw into a kick panel, (I've got 2 but they don't match, and I haven't put them in yet.)
In the old days, I used a COASTER-BUOY by Bar-buoy (sailing or outdoors or camping vendors - do a google search) They swivel, securely attach, and work great. I let my old ones go in an old van, and the newer ones are just a bit too tight for my mugs. I still kick myself on that one.
2. I've had no problem w/the 12volt plugs "slipping out" of the socket with any phone model I've tried, nor with an escort or valentine radar, gps units, or AC adapter. Maybe you could orient the plug to make it fit better, or perhaps you have a defective socket in the car you drove. I've used both front and rear with no problems.
That said, I've now hardwired the phone, radar, dimming mirror, etc. That is ultimately a better solution which looks better and is safer! I would definately go that way! Once you've used the "hands free" phone system, you won't ever want to go back, and you WILL hate having to use the phone in any other car you drive. Even if it seems expensive to start with.
3. Storage: I couldn't believe how much stuff was left over when I tried to move from the Acura legend to the saab. Almost twice as much stuff, and things I thought I had lost! Now I carry less "Junk" ;-)
Glove box pretty much carries manuals.
Armrest Console pretty much carries pens, magnifing glass, calculator, highlighters, misc keys, spare napkins, spare batteries, and power bars, etc.
Spare maps go in front seat pockets, or inbetween seat and tranny tunnel.
File folders I'm working on in the field get slid down between the passenger seat and "transmission" tunnel if they aren't open. A clipboard slides in there great, too.
Glasses go on my head or around the shifter (I have retention straps on mine) I've learned that glasses in the door pockets are likely to jump for freedom!
Door pockets carry pocket knife /leatherman, business cards, extra pens, etc.
I use the coat hangers that clip on to the head rest to keep the wet stuff off everything else.
I tend to carry a headlamp behind the passenger seat (not for the 9-5, for me!) They work better than a flashlight in most circumstances, like changing a tire.
In self defense, I've finally done the following: I got an accessory pocket which goes in front of the front passenger seat and carries the water bottle, books on tape, measuring tape, CD's,maps (I have LOTS of maps), large flashlight, etc. I think it's the Case Logic model that bedbathandbeyond carries. (add a .com if you want to look online)
I also am using a fanny pack for the miscellaneous tools I want with me when I switch cars. Every time I took the honey's car, it was a disaster b/c I'd forget something, and the transition was ALWAYS a drag. I REALLY prefer having my car to work out of w/o the wires dangling. The pack works really well at getting things out of the way (like to the trunk)when I suddenly need to carry passengers instead of stuff!
4. Trunk: I got cargo nets for BOTH sides of the trunk, with the assorted clips. This makes a HUGE difference in keeping the trunk straightened out. I usually carry spare shoes, boots, snowshoes in the winter, booster cables, change of clothes, work jacket, rain gear, work gloves, washer fluid, etc. I can usually find what I'm looking for now, and can use the trunk w/o a major struggle when I'm carring groceries or luggage! Most of the storage systems won't work because of the low sill when you open the trunk, or if you fold down the seats regularly (I do)
posted by 68.163.216...
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