Low Profile Cargo Box 3rd Gen

glenyoshida · 10-03-2007, 07:19 PM

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.

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wormhole · 10-03-2007, 07:27 PM

That looks awesome. I'm jealous

HuskyRunner · 10-03-2007, 07:44 PM

Damn. That's sweet. Well thought out. Thinner material, more space!

Ric · 10-03-2007, 07:51 PM

guys, these pics DO NOT do justice.. these ROCK.

Whitey13 · 10-03-2007, 07:54 PM

Kudos to you. Extremely well executed.

glenyoshida · 10-03-2007, 08:34 PM

Thanks. It's real nice to have some positive feedback.

I'll post up if there are any problems with it when I actually start to use it.

Texas_Ace · 10-03-2007, 08:48 PM

Dang that is nice! I wish i could get something like that in my truck! Only thing i would want to change would eb the use of the rear seat. but that is a GREAT setup you have there! wish i could have done that!

SC4Runner · 10-03-2007, 08:57 PM

Yeah nice.

Its funny cause if you want to put in these "carpet kits" you'll want to make it custom for your own needs. Mine is completely different.

Skrillah · 10-03-2007, 08:59 PM

Very awesome!...I like the compact design idea, it really saves the space the others fill up so well. Using the aluminum really saved the space and I'm sure helped keep the weight down too!

You should think about going into production! I'd order one!!!!!!!!

Texas_Ace · 10-03-2007, 09:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skrillah

You should think about going into production! I'd order one!!!!!!!!

So would I! something to think about...

neliconcept · 10-03-2007, 09:29 PM

Yea Glen is freakin awesome at this stuff, I plan to do the same thing sorta with mine, I thought about 6 inchs but im going up to 5, and im going to cherry wood finish the front and make it fit perfectly like that.

so beautiful

Skrillah · 10-03-2007, 09:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by neliconcept

Yea Glen is freakin awesome at this stuff, I plan to do the same thing sorta with mine, I thought about 6 inchs but im going up to 5, and im going to cherry wood finish the front and make it fit perfectly like that.

so beautiful

Lol...don't forget these are rugged off-road machines! They aren't suppose to have cherry wood finish! Haha....j/k! More power to ya and get some pics up when you finish!

slus · 10-03-2007, 10:15 PM

By far the best cargo box I've seen.

RacerX · 10-03-2007, 10:49 PM

Wow! That looks incredible and is really well though out...

glenyoshida · 10-04-2007, 12:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skrillah

You should think about going into production! I'd order one!!!!!!!!

That would be cool. Unfortunately I think the labor involved would probably nix the deal. The materials were relatively cheap, but as Ric can attest, I'm no speedy production worker. I like stuff precise and that takes time.

However, if anyone is really serious about wanting to duplicate this setup I'd be willing to take the measurements for ya. It really did work out sweet.

When I get the Engle fridge/freezer/warmer in there it's going to fit behind the passenger side seat and will only stick up 4 inches above the cargo floor. I'll be able to reach over and grab a Coke without getting out and will not have to move the cooler to sleep. Lazyness rules!

OSU4Runner · 10-04-2007, 01:57 AM

Wow that looks great

**rocket** · 10-04-2007, 04:27 AM

Thats the best 3rd gen cargo box i've ever seen...and i've seen them all. Very nice job! I'm definitely interested in measurements and more pictures if you have them.

OSU4Runner · 10-04-2007, 04:33 AM

So are you able to used the back seat at all? Or is it completely removed. I think thats the only that would bother me about doing a cargo box like this, not having a back seat.

Rock Slide · 10-04-2007, 05:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guapo83

So are you able to used the back seat at all? Or is it completely removed. I think thats the only that would bother me about doing a cargo box like this, not having a back seat.

x2. Is the back seat totally out w/ this style of sleeping platform? I carry folks around too much to leave my back seat out.

Although, I will agree with what others have said...your design looks outstanding

. I have always been interested in these type of builds and I really like the low profile design of yours. I especially like how it is form fitted to your truck. Very nice!

YotaJunky · 10-04-2007, 05:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glenyoshida

...
However, if anyone is really serious about wanting to duplicate this setup I'd be willing to take the measurements for ya. It really did work out sweet.
....

Please do take the measurements. I would like to duplicate what you have done. And I agree with another member, it's the best cargo box I've seen for this application to date.

Troy

glenyoshida · 10-04-2007, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guapo83

So are you able to use the back seat at all? Or is it completely removed. I think thats the only that would bother me about doing a cargo box like this, not having a back seat.

No, it's gone, but the back seat could have stayed in. In fact I designed it to be able to put them back in if I want. If you do have the seats in there then you would just need to build a platform to rest on top of the seats for level sleeping.

I thought a long time about pulling the rear seats out but after having them out for a year or so in my 94 I've only had a couple of times that it would have been handy to have them in. It's normally just me and occasionally my girlfriend. I go wheeling a lot and really like not having to load and unload all my tools.

In that little 3 inch space that the seats took up in my 94 I now fit:
Full size axe, 48inch hi-lift, flat bastard file, standard screwdriver, #2 phillips screwdriver, crescent wrench, pliers, dikes, pair of vise grips, wire cutter/stripper, Mapp gas torch, spare fuses, torx bits, hex wrenches, tape measure, fire extinguisher, spotlight, socket set, pair of tire chains, drill bit set, tree saw, parachute cord, foldable shovel, $35 back up air compressor, hitch pin, hack saw, and a hammer.

I feel kinda selfish about making it a two seater but I figure I bought the thing to wheel and after the umpteenth time of loading and unloading the heavy tools, the back seat was gone. It does crack me up a little when someone asks for a ride and I say sure but there's no back seat! lol

glenyoshida · 10-04-2007, 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rocket

Thats the best 3rd gen cargo box I've ever seen...and I've seen them all. Very nice job! I'm definitely interested in measurements and more pictures if you have them.

Thanks.

Alrighty, I'll take measurements and draw them up. It'll be a little while though. I have company from out of state and then I'm taking a several day trip to the western slope before the snow season gets too thick.

Rocket, you can come by and take measurements anytime if you like. You're probably only 30 mins from me.

keithguts · 10-04-2007, 08:27 AM

Dam that is cool. I love it, and I also want one. But I need to keep my backseats in place. Im sure that that disign can be used going up to the back seat as well. Again, best looking storage box I ever seen.

Atomic · 10-04-2007, 08:30 AM

Wow! Greatest storage box ever! I am really interested in making one for my rig (but I need my rear seats)

hey! you lost your rear bumper!

SC4Runner · 10-04-2007, 08:35 AM

I think its an awesome design, but, would be more useful if it was a little taller. I've got 8 inches of room underneath, and can store a ton of stuff in there. At the same time, I can sleep perfectly on a 3" thick mat, and don't have to take out anything during the night. This includes my tool boxes, food bins, surfboards, camping gear etc.

I really cannot think of many things that could fit in the drawers besides some tools, rope, and stuff like that.

Just my $.02... I could never make anything like that, its a great piece of work.

This is mine, still have plenty of room up top too. This is not the finished version, I am too lazy to go outside and get pics at the moment. But, I have it fastened with turn buckles.

There are two surfboards in the center section below btw.

10-03-2007, 07:27 PM	#2 (permalink)
wormhole Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Bountiful, Utah Posts: 1,526	That looks awesome. I'm jealous __________________ 2000 Toyota 4runner auto, 4x4, elocker, budbuilt skid, Sonoran Steel 7.2, 265/75/16 Yokohoma Geolanders AT-S Just call me "T"

10-03-2007, 08:34 PM	#6 (permalink)
glenyoshida Contributing Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 236	Thanks. It's real nice to have some positive feedback. I'll post up if there are any problems with it when I actually start to use it. __________________ - Glen 2001 4Runner SR5 Auto - Armorology Front Bumper, Warn M8000 w/hidden solenoid - Wireless remote, 1/2" Technora winch line & Safety Thimble - Toytec coilovers - OME 891s w/Bilsteins - Yokohama Geolander MT+ 305/70R16 - Stubbs HD-SKO Sliders - Engel 15 Freezer - Toytec Rear LCA skids - Budbuilt front and belly skids - Low profile cargo - Laptop mount - Thule aluminum roof basket - Viper 5 channel remote start two way paging model # 5900 - Cobra 8WSXTII CB Radio - Stainless rear bumper

10-03-2007, 08:57 PM	#8 (permalink)
SC4Runner Contributing Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: 5th Gen San Diegan, California Posts: 5,885	Yeah nice. Its funny cause if you want to put in these "carpet kits" you'll want to make it custom for your own needs. Mine is completely different. __________________ 1996 4x4 3.4L 4Runner on 35's - 6" of lift, MTR's, E-locked, ARB Tacoma Bumper, Sliders and a cut off tail pipe. 1966 FJ40 - SOA with stock springs, stock 1F motor, and a smelly tailpipe.

10-03-2007, 08:59 PM	#9 (permalink)
Skrillah Registered User Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Bloomington,Indiana Posts: 859	Very awesome!...I like the compact design idea, it really saves the space the others fill up so well. Using the aluminum really saved the space and I'm sure helped keep the weight down too! You should think about going into production! I'd order one!!!!!!!! __________________ 1997 Toyota 4runner 4x4, 2.7L, Auto, 146k miles, KC Slimlites, Bilsteins, OME 881/890s, Custom Westin Push Bar, Brembo/Hawk Pads, Yakima Gear, Midland CB, 265/75/16 Bridgestone Revos, Limited 5-spoke rims (Custom),Herculined Rocker Panels, Diff. Breather mod,Deckplate mod,4.56 gearing, Pioneer head unit w/Ipod connection and Sirius Sat. Radio.

10-03-2007, 10:49 PM	#14 (permalink)
RacerX Registered User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Houston, Tx Posts: 88	Wow! That looks incredible and is really well though out... __________________ 97 4runner 2.7L Auto 2WD Radiant Red, Hypersilver Tundra wheels, Tundra brake upgrade, Cooper ATRs ---In the garage--- 88 BMW E30 M3- stroker motor-- garage queen 93 NX2000-road race car-- 2250lbs@300whp/tq--kidney killing suspension and a few dents

10-03-2007, 07:51 PM	#4 (permalink)
Ric Banned - User requested Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: earth Posts: 4,494	guys, these pics DO NOT do justice.. these ROCK.

10-03-2007, 07:54 PM	#5 (permalink)
Whitey13 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: MA Posts: 1,115	Kudos to you. Extremely well executed.

10-03-2007, 09:29 PM	#11 (permalink)
neliconcept Banned Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 0	Yea Glen is freakin awesome at this stuff, I plan to do the same thing sorta with mine, I thought about 6 inchs but im going up to 5, and im going to cherry wood finish the front and make it fit perfectly like that. so beautiful

10-03-2007, 10:15 PM	#13 (permalink)
slus Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 106	By far the best cargo box I've seen.

10-04-2007, 01:57 AM	#16 (permalink)
OSU4Runner Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Woodway, TX Posts: 1,333	Wow that looks great __________________ 2006 Tacoma SR5 - Stock for now 2000 4Runner Limited 16x8 Pro Comp Steelies wrapped in 285/75R16 Pro Comp M/T'S~RB 2" Body Lift~SS 1.2 Lift~1st Gen Roll Bar~Surco Safari Rack~ Trail Gear Sliders~Deckplate Mod w/ True Flow~Satoshi Grille~Hayden 1678 Aux Cooler~Safari Snorkel and a bunch of other crap.....

10-04-2007, 04:27 AM	#17 (permalink)
rocket Super Moderator Staff Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Colorado Posts: 4,527	Thats the best 3rd gen cargo box i've ever seen...and i've seen them all. Very nice job! I'm definitely interested in measurements and more pictures if you have them. __________________ '96-'02 gone: '92

10-04-2007, 04:33 AM	#18 (permalink)
OSU4Runner Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Woodway, TX Posts: 1,333	So are you able to used the back seat at all? Or is it completely removed. I think thats the only that would bother me about doing a cargo box like this, not having a back seat. __________________ 2006 Tacoma SR5 - Stock for now 2000 4Runner Limited 16x8 Pro Comp Steelies wrapped in 285/75R16 Pro Comp M/T'S~RB 2" Body Lift~SS 1.2 Lift~1st Gen Roll Bar~Surco Safari Rack~ Trail Gear Sliders~Deckplate Mod w/ True Flow~Satoshi Grille~Hayden 1678 Aux Cooler~Safari Snorkel and a bunch of other crap.....

10-04-2007, 08:27 AM	#23 (permalink)
keithguts Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Bay Shore, NY Posts: 1,422	Dam that is cool. I love it, and I also want one. But I need to keep my backseats in place. Im sure that that disign can be used going up to the back seat as well. Again, best looking storage box I ever seen. __________________ IF YOU DON'T DRIVE A TOYOTA, TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY! MY PICS 95 4runner 3.0 auto 4x4 My Rig My Rig RangerMan Enjoy

10-04-2007, 08:30 AM	#24 (permalink)
Atomic Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Crystal Lake IL (Home) or Oxford OH (MU Ohio) Posts: 317	Wow! Greatest storage box ever! I am really interested in making one for my rig (but I need my rear seats) hey! you lost your rear bumper! __________________ Tess- 1998 4Runner 4WD SR5: 154k, Evergreen Pearl Metallic, ARB Tacoma Bull Bar, Hella 500's, Deckplate, ISR, WabFab discos, 5.25'' Infinity Reference rears, Baja amp powering a 10'' Infinity Reference sub, Sylvania Silverstars, JB L.E.D. Taillights 1996 4Runner 2WD SR5: stock, dented, almost dead, 207k- Brother's Last edited by Atomic; 10-04-2007 at 08:31 AM.

10-04-2007, 08:35 AM	#25 (permalink)
SC4Runner Contributing Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: 5th Gen San Diegan, California Posts: 5,885	I think its an awesome design, but, would be more useful if it was a little taller. I've got 8 inches of room underneath, and can store a ton of stuff in there. At the same time, I can sleep perfectly on a 3" thick mat, and don't have to take out anything during the night. This includes my tool boxes, food bins, surfboards, camping gear etc. I really cannot think of many things that could fit in the drawers besides some tools, rope, and stuff like that. Just my $.02... I could never make anything like that, its a great piece of work. This is mine, still have plenty of room up top too. This is not the finished version, I am too lazy to go outside and get pics at the moment. But, I have it fastened with turn buckles. There are two surfboards in the center section below btw. __________________ 1996 4x4 3.4L 4Runner on 35's - 6" of lift, MTR's, E-locked, ARB Tacoma Bumper, Sliders and a cut off tail pipe. 1966 FJ40 - SOA with stock springs, stock 1F motor, and a smelly tailpipe.

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