[rickashay]

I was originally on the fence about adding one of these to my 4Runner. I thought they were too big and heavy and just not worth the effort. The more I camped in my truck and had to shuffle things around everytime I had to go to bed, the more I realized that I needed a storage/sleeping platform to make better use of the space. I am also 6'6" and need a LONG area to sleep. I often camp alone but once in a while my GF and dog come along.

Here is my finished product:
View of the small storage area behind the seats when they are folded up. (I know, I know, I forgot to mask off the under area when bedliner was applied....) The pump will be hard-wired when I get some time.

IMG_0209 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

Storage cubby measured out to hold my two Thermarest Luxury mattress's.

IMG_0211 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

Folded flat.

IMG_0213 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

another angle (sorry, overexposed!)

IMG_0216 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

Drawers open (rated at 75lbs.)

IMG_0220 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

Folded up, with seat backs up.

IMG_0223 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

[Brignola85]

Very nice! What'd that run you if you don't mind me asking? Weight? I like the fact that you used actual drawers instead of storage bins. It seems much more thought out.

[Gerdo]

Nice.
It will make the wheeling/camping trips so much easier.
On mine, one drawer holds my wheeling tools and stuff. The other is most of my camping/cooking/survival stuff.
My food and clothes get tossed in the front seats for the night.

[blcktpgsr]

I remember seeing Victor's version of the sleeping platform very much similar to yours.

I like this idea of more storage space with the sliding drawer design...really makes for a clean look. Good job man!

[IanB]

Looks really good! I like the drawers. Any idea what the whole thing weighs?

[Baja Runner]

Nice work. I like your idea with using the piano hinge.

Platforms are one of those things that are not considered to be "one size fits all". Everyone has different wants/desires/needs with them.

For example, I didnt want drawers underneath, because I wanted to keep my surfboards underneath the platform for DD'ing. Also didn't want it to be heavy. I actually made mine with a single peice of 4x8 5/8" plywood so it stayed light.

[rickashay]

Thanks guys!

I think I am in this one for around $140 if memory serves....

I wanted to keep it as light as possible but there is a lot of framework on the underside. If I would do it again I would use 5/8" for the tops and 3/4" for the base or supports. I used 3/4" all around. As for weight, I am not sure, probably 60-70lbs.

Yeah, Victors was what really got me thinking. I didnt really actually look at his design but I just saw that he had one and how nice it was to have storage under his bed.... I was sold.

[gptoy96]

Nicely done.

I like the space for the compressor and the cubby for your mattresses.

[Gerdo]

I made the same type of cubby. I carry my spare CV in it.

[BrianSD_42]

This looks like an extremely nice build. Why the sleeping platform, is it because of the hassle of setting up a tent in the rain / snow? I would think that sleeping in the truck would be like sleeping in an icebox since it won't retain heat like a backpacking tent would.

[Mf Baker]

wow, thats frickin awesome! im lazy and dont have a work space, any interest in making another one?

[rickashay]

Originally Posted by Gerdo

I made the same type of cubby. I carry my spare CV in it.

Yup, going to be doing that too!

Originally Posted by brianemc2_42

This looks like an extremely nice build. Why the sleeping platform, is it because of the hassle of setting up a tent in the rain / snow? I would think that sleeping in the truck would be like sleeping in an icebox since it won't retain heat like a backpacking tent would.

Thanks! Yes, too much hassle setting up a tent and in my opinion, being organized on the trail is so much better than having a truck stuffed to the roof. Everything is easy to get to and not a pain in the a$$. I have always slept in the truck, even my pickups before. Your off of the ground so it's surprisingly warm.

Originally Posted by Mf Baker

wow, thats frickin awesome! im lazy and dont have a work space, any interest in making another one?

thanks! hahah for the right price....

A couple more shots today after i did some test fitting!


20110912-IMG_0231 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

The Thermarests fit perfect!

20110912-IMG_0228 by RickaShay24, on Flickr

[Mf Baker]

nice, very nice! i love it! curious; what size thermarests are they? i have two xtra wide, extra long 3.5s i use, would be great if i didnt have to buy any new, smaller ones! lol! and you never know, i get extra lazy when i have money, lol!

[rickashay]

Originally Posted by Mf Baker

nice, very nice! i love it! curious; what size thermarests are they? i have two xtra wide, extra long 3.5s i use, would be great if i didnt have to buy any new, smaller ones! lol! and you never know, i get extra lazy when i have money, lol!

Here is a link to the Thermarests I have: Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map Sleeping Pad - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

Mine are the size Large ones.

[Mf Baker]

good to know. i have the xtra large, so looks like they wont fit in there :/

still very impressed and inspired by this project! great work! i might have to have you make me one along with a set of retrofits this winter, lol!