Arrow FDN54 - User Manual

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Arrow FDN54 and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Assembly Steps

Assemble Base Frame Rectangle

Fasten side channels and cross channels to form the base frame rectangle using screws.

Reinforce Corners and Gussets

Attach corner angles and a gusset to reinforce the base frame structure.

Finishing Materials

Ground Preparation

Prepare the ground bed by removing debris and leveling the surface.

Deck Material Selection

Choose suitable deck material like exterior plywood, avoiding pressure-treated lumber.

This document is an owner's manual and assembly instructions for the Arrow Base Kit, Model No. FDN54, designed for storage buildings. The manual provides guidance on assembling the base kit and integrating it with a storage building's floor frame, offering options for either decking material or a concrete slab finish.

The primary function of the Base Kit is to provide a level and stable foundation for an Arrow storage building. It acts as a structural support for the floor frame of the storage building, ensuring the overall stability and longevity of the structure. The kit is designed to be used in conjunction with a storage building's existing floor frame, creating a complete and secure base.

Important Technical Specifications:

The parts list for the FDN54 Base Kit includes:

Side Channel 56 1/16" (142.4 cm) (Part No. 9783): 2 pieces
Side Channel 44 13/16" (113.8 cm) (Part No. 9784): 4 pieces
Corner Angle (Part No. 0572): 3 pieces
Cross Channel 21 7/16" (54.5 cm) (Part No. 9782): 3 pieces
Gusset (Part No. 6481): 1 piece

Fasteners provided include:

#8Ax5/16" (8 mm) Screw (Part No. 65004): 38 pieces
#8-32x3/8" (10mm) Bolt (Part No. 65923): 7 pieces
#8-32 Hex Nut (Part No. 65103): 7 pieces

The dimensions for the 5x4 model, as illustrated in the assembly steps, indicate a base structure with specific measurements for channel placement and door opening. For example, the cross channels are placed at 22 15/32" (57.1 cm) from the end, and the door opening is 21" (53.3 cm) wide. The corner angles are fastened at an 18" (45.7 cm) dimension.

When using decking material, the manual specifies "EXTERIOR PLYWOOD OR ANY SUITABLE DECK MATERIAL (5/8" 15.5 MM MINIMUM THICKNESS)." It explicitly warns against using pressure-treated lumber that will make contact with Arrow Products due to accelerated corrosion. The recommended decking material for a 5x4 front is a 4x8 (1220x2440 MM) sheet.

For concrete slab applications, the suggested method involves a minimum 4" (10.2 cm) concrete slab, reinforced with 6"x6" (15.2x15.2 cm) reinforcing mesh. The base should include a plastic moisture barrier, a 2" (5.1 cm) sand bed, and a 4" (10.2 cm) gravel bed. The base kit itself can serve as a finished form for pouring concrete.

Usage Features:

The Base Kit is designed to be versatile, offering two main options for the floor:

Decking Material: Users can attach decking material (such as plywood) to the assembled floor frame. This creates a raised floor within the storage building, suitable for various storage needs. The plywood rests between the floor frames on the inside flange.
Concrete Slab: The base kit can also be used as a form for pouring a concrete slab. This provides a durable, permanent, and level floor for the storage building. After the concrete is poured and cured, the floor frame assembly is attached using concrete anchor bolts.

The assembly process is straightforward, involving the fastening of side channels, cross channels, corner angles, and a gusset to form a rectangular frame. The manual emphasizes the importance of a level ground surface for proper assembly and stability.

The kit is designed to integrate with the storage building's floor frame. The instructions detail how to position the floor frame assembly onto the base kit, ensuring equal distance on all sides. If the floor frame does not have pre-drilled anchor holes or if they don't align, users are instructed to drill 1/4" (6 mm) diameter holes at the cross members for attachment with the provided bolts and nuts.

Maintenance Features:

While the manual primarily focuses on assembly, it implicitly highlights maintenance considerations through its warnings and recommendations:

Level Ground: Maintaining a level ground surface is crucial for the kit's stability. Any settling or unevenness in the ground could compromise the integrity of the base and the storage building.
Material Selection: The explicit warning against pressure-treated lumber in contact with Arrow Products underscores the importance of using appropriate materials to prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of the kit and the storage building. This is a key preventative maintenance measure.
Regular Inspection: Although not explicitly stated as a maintenance feature, the emphasis on proper assembly and fit suggests that periodic inspection of the base kit and its connections to the floor frame would be beneficial to ensure all fasteners remain secure and the structure remains stable.
Decking Material Care: If decking material is used, it would require standard maintenance for outdoor wood, such as sealing or replacement as needed, to prevent rot or damage from weather exposure.
Concrete Slab Care: A concrete slab, while durable, may require occasional cleaning or sealing to maintain its condition, especially in areas with harsh weather.

The manual also includes general safety precautions, such as wearing work gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves when handling metal parts, as some pieces may have sharp edges. This contributes to safe handling during initial assembly and any future maintenance tasks.

In summary, the Arrow Base Kit FDN54 is a foundational component for Arrow storage buildings, offering a robust and adaptable solution for creating a stable floor, whether through decking or a concrete slab. Its design prioritizes ease of assembly and long-term durability, provided the installation guidelines and material recommendations are followed.