Hey everybody,
So I was supposed to measure the TB today to get prepped for planning my rear cargo area, and then it dawned on me: I should have you guys help me through the planning process! This will be my first offroad/expedition rig, and I'd like to hear from everybody here... sort of a cargo area "by offroadtb.com."
Here are my needs:
*Removable toolbox (I only have one set of tools)
*Room for (2) 7-gallon aquatainers, preferably towards the front of the vehicle for easier plumbing
*Must retain usage of rear seats, but don't need to be able to have headrests folded down.
*Rear window visibility isn't necessary, but it would be nice when I'm not fully packed
*Retains access to storage cubbies or incorporate them into design, including the one on the cargo area floor.
*Room for fridge... Dimensions will be same as Engel 45 (I'm looking at an edgestar 45) on sliding drawer or fridge drop slide (roadie and james should know what this is)
*Of course, must strap down/turnbuckle down securely to vehicle...
*Area for 800w inverter
And here are my wants:
*Locking drawers/cabinets/fridge slides/etc. (If somebody breaks into the back, I want them to leave empty-handed.
*Kitchen counter/Cooking area
*Tie-down hooks on any flat surfaces.
*convertible or contains room to sit for one person with legs hanging out of rear of TB
*Would like some way to utilize space between pillars and windows (not much space, I know, but it could make for a nice cubby or for heating stuff idk)
*Would prefer to not drill holes in vehicle
*Possible extra functionality if rear seats are folded down (like more storage, fold-down shelves, etc...)
*Trash bag hanger!
I've read the storage threads on ExPo, and I've seen Bill and JD's storage solutions, but I'd like any input you guys have to give... Also, if anybody has dimensions on the interior cargo area , I'd love to have them, otherwise I'll measure them myself... I'll also keep updating this thread throughout the design and build process, hopefully better than my threads on the OS.
-edit: Oh, and James/Bill if there's anything you wish you had done different on your builds, please let me know too!
And if anybody can think of anything on the list I might have missed, please let me know. This cargo area is basically meant to be functional for camping and the like, while remaining secure and quiet during travel. I am currently using an Action Packer, 2 7-gallon Aquatainers, and a craftsman portable tool box in the rear, held down with ratchet straps.
Thanks in advance,
-Phil