There are so many awesome builds for the 3T4R. So much inspiration. I've only had this truck for a month and a half, but it's clear that it's the perfect camping vehicle. we like to do quick overnighter's where we leave right after work, so often its dark by the time we arrive to set up camp. A drawer / sleeper platform was a must in my mind to cut down unpacking when we arrive.
I'm quite proud of how it turned out, as I've never made anything with wood before. So if you're thinking about doing it, just dive in! After spending hours and hours daydreaming and measuring and blueprinting haha. Hopefully i can do my part in contributing to this community. Here are the main measurements that i would use for a 3rd gen.
Here's the base. I used 2x8 for the main supports, 2x4 for the centre support, 3/8" (i think, had it lying around) plywood for the bottom. This photo was taken before i cut a bunch of sections out to save weight.
The top is 3/4" pine. I went heavy here because I didn't want any supports protruding into the drawer area, so cargo wouldn't get snagged. The face of the drawer acts as a support as well. I'm not able to open the drawer with two buddies sitting in the cargo area, but it was a calculated compromise. Big ol' paddle latch to have something nice to pull on. I oriented downwards which isn't ideal for ergonomics, but again, i was adamant to leave a smooth area for sliding cargo.
The drawer is a box made with 1x6 and again, some plywood i had lying around. It will be carpeted in there soon. Slides are 1" square stock and old roller blade bearings. I mounted the right filler panel on a piano hinge to allow access while we're inside. left side is accessible by opening the drawer. I can't really give measurements for the jigsaw work, go at it with some cardboard first.
And look what fits almost perfectly from IKEA! When i took the measurements, it blew me away. I was so excited in the kids aisle.
What I love:
- Going with one big drawer. I think having the flexibility of one giant drawer is awesome.
- Going with an 8" height. I almost used 2x6 for headroom concerns, but looking at it now, it seriously limits your storage capabilities.
- The custom bearing slides. It's very strong and smooth. It cost me next to nothing as I had an old pair of rollerblades i didn't need anymore. Two 30" square stock cost me about $20.
- Flush mounted latch. Cost me 40 big ones, but really keeps the install looking clean.
- go to the carpet store and ask for non-backed indoor / outdoor carpet. Very easy to work with. All it took was spray adhesive, a staple gun, some strategic slit cutting and common sense.
What I'd improve on:
- I think i would sacrifice some strength and use 1x8 for the main support. Make it lighter and maximize drawer space
- using 3/4" metal stock and using low profile head bolts to minimize the slide area gap. I really was trying to squeeze every bit of storage space out of this
- Maybe trying to make it even taller, to get over the fuel filler hump.
That's all i can think of. Please feel free to ask any questions and I'll answer as best as I can. Next step is the sleeper attachment. Keep it DIY!
Linear Mode
