Cargo Box Storage System DIY

[jsmarine]

I built my own cargo area storage system recently similar to one I saw online here: Irbis Offroad

It was not too hard to build, and I spent about $150 for everything. I got all the materials from Home Depot, except the paddle handle, which is from Northern Tool and Equipment, and the carpet is from Pep Boys.

Just wanted to show it off on here! Its worked out great so far, one of the best mods I could have done, it really helps organize all the tools and gear I carry and also hide them from view. Its also a nice place to lock stuff up when you go to the mechanic or the car wash.

 

[jsmarine]

sorry, didn't know the pics would be that big!

 

[ryani]

Looks good. That's the kind of latch I'm looking for to complete mine. Where did you find it if you don't mind me asking.

 

[Pikeman]

Good job. I keep thinking of doing a box like that also. For now i use milk crates with motorcycle tie downs to hold them in place. Do you have your box locked down some how? Maybe with turnbuckles to the factory d-rings?

 

[jsmarine]

heres where I got the latch: Buyers Junior Size Steel Flush Paddle Latch — Fits 2 3/4in x 3 3/4in. Recess | Truck Box Accessories | Northern Tool + Equipment

 

[jsmarine]

I secured it to the floor of the truck with some angle brackets and sheet metal screws. It only makes a small hole through the carpet so if you were to ever take it out it really wouldnt be noticable.

 

[ryani]

Thanks for the latch link! I'm going to have to order one for mine. I just got my storage drawer completed last weekend

 

[seymourwaterz]

very nice.

 

[Pure 98]

looks good!!! im making one right now

 

[brian2sun]

Looks really good man. I've been thinking about doing something like this forever, but my big thing is I like to have the option to throw the seats down and sleep in the back of my Runner. Hmm.. I wonder if there's a way to have both??

 

[JohnsD90]

Looks really good man. I've been thinking about doing something like this forever, but my big thing is I like to have the option to throw the seats down and sleep in the back of my Runner. Hmm.. I wonder if there's a way to have both??

Not as big but JA has this, I'm gonna do it in the spring.

Toyota 4Runner Highlander Modifications Cargo Organizer Box

 

[rdgt4r]

Bravo! very nice!

 

[cwrose]

Looks really good man. I've been thinking about doing something like this forever, but my big thing is I like to have the option to throw the seats down and sleep in the back of my Runner. Hmm.. I wonder if there's a way to have both??

You could probably make the box just a bit shorter in height, then devise some sort of folding or sliding apparatus to the front (right behind the rear seats) that can be unfolded or slid out to create a "sleeping extension" for when the seats are folded flat. Hopefully that makes sense. I've not seen one, but it sure would be nice.

 

[ryani]

You could probably make the box just a bit shorter in height, then devise some sort of folding or sliding apparatus to the front (right behind the rear seats) that can be unfolded or slid out to create a "sleeping extension" for when the seats are folded flat. Hopefully that makes sense. I've not seen one, but it sure would be nice.

I just got done with my rear storage drawer system and made a small latch with extension on the end so I can sleep on a level area.
When I get my camera back I'll take some pictures.

 

[jsmarine]

I know what you mean about sleeping in the back, and I may try and I am trying to come up with a way, like you said, to fold down the seats and have an extension of the box go over that space. That would also give you a little storage underneath and on top would be a nice sleeping area, slightly larger in my opinion because you wouldnt have the wheel wells in the way, you would be closer to the ceiling though I guess, but since youre lying down so who cares! ha

 

[Cambo]

That looks real good!! I am in the middle of building mine also. I am going with two drawers instead of one. I didn't want all the weight on one. What type of slides are you using? I also noticed what looked like buttons on the top? Is that to secure something? I plan to re-use the tiedowns on top, hopefullly I can get them strong enough. One last question, how solid is that fire extinguisher mount? Does it obstruct your rear view?

Heres a link for all you sleep platform guys -
http://www.yotatech.com/f129/skyrat-s-rear-cargo-box-sleeping-platform-3rd-gen-4runner-76673/

 

[jsmarine]

The sliders I used, hold about 150lbs together, I would have used some that were rated for more weight but Home Depot didn't have them (or they were out of them). 150lbs should be enough for me. The "buttons" on top are actually hex bolts that hold down the top. (I may go back and use round top carriage bolts though) As you can see in the picture the top is two pieces, not one. That is because I wanted the top to fit perfectly with no gaps against the seats and the sides of the vehicle; so it had to be two pieces otherwise you cannot get the the top in through the back hatch, trust me I tried when I had it one piece.

As for tie downs, I agree I am going to put some on. I just haven't decided what I want yet

 

[brian2sun]

Good ideas guys, ryani, I'd love to see some pics of your set-up!

 

[sjparamex]

awesome box

thats a really killer box, how did you do it. by any change what are your dimensions. likes and dislikes? does it serve you great purpose? do's and dont's? difficulties in the build?

 

[xskydivingdudex]

This is a 2 year old thread... and the guy who made this sold his 4runner but i would PM him to see if he will reply.