Measuring an estate car, hatchback, or MPV for a Hamster Baskets dog pod

It is strongly advised that you have a look at our cageview page and read through this page before you start.

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You will need:

You will need the back of the vehicle cleared of all clutter to ensure that there is no hidden obstruction.

Use these instructions to enter the dimensions in the [   ] spaces, altering them as needed during the calculations. Use these to complete the order form.

Basics

As 2 inch mesh is used in the construction of the cages, where possible give the sizes in 2" steps (for example 6"- 8" - 10"- 12" or 14").


Please use inches rather than metric, and 34 inches for example, rather than 2 feet 10 inches.

The first thing to establish is a reference line within the vehicle.
Once a point within the cage area is established most measurements will relate to this.
 
 
 
Reference Point

Use the set square or a large cardboard box higher than the height of the back seat. Place it flat on the floor and against the top of the seat, (make sure that the seat is locked in place). Where the vertical drop from the back of the seat touches the floor, using the chalk, mark a reference line along the back base of the box, from one side of the floor to the other. Now remove the box to avoid clutter.

 

Reference Line
Seat back shape

From this line measure back to the base of the seat.

Enter Dimension "A" [  ]

From the same line measure up to the lowest point where the box would touch the back of the seat. The cage will be made in a straight line from the base of the seat to this point.

Enter Dimension "B" [  ]

 

Dimensions [A] and [B]
Height

Using the same line measure upwards to decide the height of the cage. Before deciding on this dimension check that the back door is high enough to allow entry and exit of the cage - if not reduce the height. ALWAYS allow at least one inch.

Enter Dimension "C" [  ]

 

Height [C]

At this point you will need assistance from outside, both to ensure that the back door is fully closed and that there is somebody to let you out.

Now have somebody firmly close the back door with you inside.


Length of Floor

From the same line measure along the floor to the back door and check that the door has no obstructions along the base. You may find that the door is curved, show this distance at the point closest to the measuring line - then take off at least one inch.

Enter Dimension "D" [  ]

 

Length of Floor [D]
Length of Roof or Lid

With the door still closed, measure from the top of the cage above the seat to the same height above the floor at the back window. The glass may curve also, so find the closest point - then take off at least one inch.

Enter dimension "E" [  ]

Height of Roof or Lid [E]

At this point you discover that you are shut in and shout for help. Once you have got out leave the door fully open.


Width of Floor

Check what width of cage you need. It must be easily put in and removed, as the spare wheel is probably beneath it. The width at floor level will be governed by the space between the wheel arches or the width of the door. Beware of a curve in the shape of the door frame at the base. The edge of the cage will be a sharp angle and should pass in without having to lift it up (unless you reduce the height of the cage to allow for lifting).
Reduce the suitable dimension to the next even number of inches. 
This is required to ensure that the cage door catches locate properly.

Enter dimension "F" [  ]
 

 

Width of Floor [F]
Width of Roof or Lid

Having decided on the height of the cage, check the width of the doorway at the top of the cage to ensure that it will fit through the tailgate frame. If the cage will pass safely enter the same dimension as the floor width. If the cage would be too wide select a suitable width and reduce again as above to an even number of inches. Beware of frame around door glass if lid is too long.

Enter dimension "G" [  ]

Width of Roof or Lid [G]
Sill at Back Door

Some estates and all hatchbacks have a sill or slight step which obstructs the entry of a cage. At this point you will have allowed for this when ensuring that the cage can enter the doorway. However, this can get in the way of the cage door if it is not allowed for.

If there is a sill add the dimension here, measuring up from the floor of the cage, or if not just enter "0".

Enter dimension "H" [  ]

Height of Sill at Back Door [H[

For special extra instructions for hatchbacks go here.

Useful Tips
1. Check! Having selected the measurements check them all again. A cage that is too large in any dimension is not going to fit.
2. You will need a piece of good quality carpet on the floor of the cage, it is very uncomfortable without.
Make a note of the size which will be A + D by F. Have a hunt for a suitable off cut, (Axminster, Wilton or Persian) whilst we make the cage.


Having filled in the dimensions on these instructions, use them to complete the   ORDER FORM  and phone your answers in it to Hamster Baskets (0153-670-209) or by fax (01531-670-630) or post it to: HamsterBaskets, Aylton, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 2QJ, UK, for manufacture and delivery. 

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