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.

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!

10-03-2007, 07:19 PM	#1 (permalink)
glenyoshida Contributing Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 205	Low Profile Cargo Box aluminum drawers 3rd Gen 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. __________________ - 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 - Low profile cargo - Laptop mount - Thule aluminum roof basket - Viper 5 channel remote start two way paging model # 5900 - Cobra 8WSXTII CB Radio - Stainless Steel 304 rear bumper (Swing out carrier in the works) Last edited by glenyoshida : 03-19-2008 at 11:51 PM.

10-03-2007, 07:27 PM	#2 (permalink)
wormhole Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Missouri/Arkansas/Idaho/Utah/Yuma, Arizona Posts: 1,209	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" Sold: 1996 Toyota 4runner, auto, 4x4, Bud Built front skid, Stubb Welding Sliders, SS #3, hella 500's and elocked rear axle

10-03-2007, 08:34 PM	#6 (permalink)
glenyoshida Contributing Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 205	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 - Low profile cargo - Laptop mount - Thule aluminum roof basket - Viper 5 channel remote start two way paging model # 5900 - Cobra 8WSXTII CB Radio - Stainless Steel 304 rear bumper (Swing out carrier in the works)

10-03-2007, 08:57 PM	#8 (permalink)
SC4Runner Contributing Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: 5th Gen San Diegan, California Posts: 5,206	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 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: 794	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, 140k miles, KC Slimlites, Bilsteins, Airlift 1000, Custom Westin Push Bar, Brembo/Hawk Pads, Yakima Gear, Midland CB, 265/75/16 Bridgestone Revos (Best tire), 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., LC Engineering Exhaust (coming Summer '08)

10-03-2007, 07:51 PM	#4 (permalink)
Ric Banned - User requested Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: earth Posts: 4,526	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: 1,038	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.

10-03-2007, 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

10-04-2007, 01:57 AM	#16 (permalink)
OSU4Runner Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Deep Creek Posts: 1,278	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~Goodridge Front and rear brake lines~Rear Locker Mod~Rear Diff Extended~Surco Safari Rack~ Optima Yellow Top~ Trail Gear Sliders~6 100W Hella 500's~ Deckplate Mod w/ True Flow~ISR Mod~~Autometer Volt and Oil Press gauges~Satoshi Grille~Redline Hood Lift~Hayden 1678 Aux Cooler~Safari Snorkel

10-04-2007, 04:27 AM	#17 (permalink)
rocket Super Moderator Staff Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Colorado Posts: 4,337	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. __________________ under construction: '96-'02 gone: '92

10-04-2007, 04:33 AM	#18 (permalink)
OSU4Runner Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Deep Creek Posts: 1,278	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~Goodridge Front and rear brake lines~Rear Locker Mod~Rear Diff Extended~Surco Safari Rack~ Optima Yellow Top~ Trail Gear Sliders~6 100W Hella 500's~ Deckplate Mod w/ True Flow~ISR Mod~~Autometer Volt and Oil Press gauges~Satoshi Grille~Redline Hood Lift~Hayden 1678 Aux Cooler~Safari Snorkel