I made a cargo cover out of mdf. My goal was two fold, have something that covers my sub and amp and cargo when the top is off, and provides a new flat storage space for the freedom panels when I have the hard top on. The height is a bit under the rim of the tub. It is also hinged at the midway point and folds back on itself if you need a taller space. The front two legs are attached with cabinet hinges so they lie flat when folded back. The legs are 1x1 and the entire thing is covered with black auto carpet. It's worked out great for two years. I also attached tie down rings at all 4 corners for securing loads. Sorry no pics at this time. If anyone wants them I can snap a few.

 

I have been thinking about doing this project almost exactly the way you describe yours. I would greatly appreciate any pics, tils or directions you have for this.

 

This drawer system is perhaps more typical of the weight to expect from wood ...



It weighs 105.82 pounds according to the Quadratech website. I doubt that two of the SoCal Fiberthane drawers weigh even 20 pounds. They are truly feather light, but quite strong. That's a pretty significant weight savings.

 

Plenty of great forum ideas for expanding the trunk usage already. In the spirit of keep it simple and cheap, I added a cargo tray that allows the soft top to fold away flat (unlike others). More details and photos on this old thread https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/modi...rackets-89991/

 

Thats why you build your own so you can control what it weighs if that is a concern. I agree I would always choose lighter weight components but that goes all the way around, bumpers skids rims tires fenders sliders racks etc.... I think in the grand scheme of how many folks build their jeeps, even the heaviest of storage system pales in comparison to what they have already strapped on it. To each their own though we are all free to do as we please as long as its legal and makes us happy!

 

Weight is not a concern for me at the momnet i have very light bumpers, hood as well as other components. Thanks for the help guys.

Thanks
Sam

 

Mark,

Does the SoCal drawer not optimally fit the JK? You made the comment that you had it custom made to your specs. Do mind sharing your measurements?

Troy

 

My point was most drawers come in set sizes from other manufacturers. With SoCal, measure your space, then contact them with the dimensions you have. Cardboard boxes are a nice way to mock up various components. If I provided you my dimensions, it may not work exactly. You might have a subwoofer, or a different fridge slide, etc. They make the drawers on sight, so they usually have your drawers shipped within a couple days. No wait for an outside fabricator. The drawers are not cheap: Both in price, and in the quality you'll receive.

 

Just a heads up on this system the actual drawer itself on the ARB system is metal.
The side storage tops are made of wood but are held into place with metal brackets.

 

I saw where someone had fabricated a cover that goes over the entire rear area where the back seat was. I liked the idea and fabricated one of my own. It is very simple and sturdy. I always have a lot of gear and tools in the back and with the cover they are secure. I really liked the Backbone cover at backbone.com but at $650 the cost is just too high.

Mine took just 1 evening to fabricate and another day for the finish to dry. It still needs some finish work so it is more uniform, but I didn't have the patience. It is 1/2 inch finish plywood with 3 reinforcing 2x4's underneath that go from side to side. It is sturdy as all get out.

Right now I put all my gear in plastic bins, but soon I am going to fabricate a large drawer that pulls out. Also I am going to add some tie-down rails on the top for a cooler/tent/... http://www.uscargocontrol.com/Ratche...Tie-Down-Rails




This was my inspiration. https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/atta...3&d=1417581033