Another Cargo Box idea for ya geared toward expeditioning. I like to camp but don't like setting up and tearing down tents. I built this for my 2001 4Runner.
I got tired of loading and unloading my gear. I think this will help a lot. For reference, the aluminum drawers hold as much as a pair of cargo drawers made of just 3/4" ply that is 8 inches high and 20 inches deep.
The cargo box is low enough for a person about 6 foot and under to sit upright without touching.
Tah Dah! All done.
ring pull and slam latch
slides are rated at 200 lbs. Drawer is made from 1/16" inch aluminum welded at the corners to hold in liquids if they leak. Rubberized coating to help prevent things from sliding around.
42 inch drawer yo!
The blue sleeping mattress is open cell latex 2.75 inches thick. It's very comfortable and there are no worries about it deflating.
Edge to edge carpet
extra side storage on both sides
Preserved rear tie downs in case something needs to be ratcheted down. 1/8" x 2" steel flat bar going all the way under the box and bolted to the sides in case of a roll over.
I guess this might be a good spot for a future air compressor? It was nice to be able to keep the rear power port.
There's over 6 inches of depth under the hinged board. Again there are latches to keep stuff from flying in case of a roll over.
1/8" aluminum sheet on a piano hinge between the cargo box and the rear seat storage.
A little more storage for the full size axe or something.
Used a piece of 1/8" aluminum to bolt the front half of the box down. I used the existing seat belt bolts for this. Didn't even need to get longer bolts.
I didn't keep close track of the total cost but I'd guess that all the materials were probably about $225.
edit: I said I would report back with any problems after a few miles and trail runs and I'm happy to report that there are no major issues. It's holding up like a champ. If I had to build it again I'd make sure the slides hold the drawer open when it's fully extended. I thought these were supposed to do that but they don't. If I'm on a hill the drawers want to slide shut. Probably won't be hard to make a little brake for it but it doesn't bother me enough yet I guess.