2000 D2 w/ V8 (171k but rebuilt 2k ago) and CDL
2" OLE HD lift all around
Safety systems full-rack w/ roof rack storage bags + lights

Was wondering if anyone has removed the rear seats and out in a bunk and some storage areas fro extended car camping/light expedition type use? Im thinking of garage style conversion not $10K built. Primary use is only for me (perhaps my GF) and my lab so no use for rear seats. Thinking of a RV sized bunk with storage underneath for rubbermade totes and perhaps some way to lock up firearms while away from vehicle (running into town on resupply during hunting/fishing trips for instance).

pics and/or plans would be VERY helpful!
TIA

-Pilsner

 

I definitely want to see pics!

 

You dont have to remove the rear seat. I can post some pictures tomorrow. Its dark already. Actually its a better storage and secured. Very simple to make.

 

Yes please!

 

Here are some of the pictures of the folding bunk, Actually, I made this to carry more equipment. We travelled to Florida one time and my daughter slept on the deck the entire trip. I cut a rubber foam mat and a sleeping bag is the way to go. Also, Im only 5'7" I can fit under the deck while my son drives. We got all our stuff on the roof rack. Had this for years already and never been removed since.





Image showing when the deck is folded. The entire unit is made of aluminum square tubing and welded.








3/16 aluminum angle to connect them together.





The deck connected to the rear cargo deck,





One of the rear seat can still be used. The deck is secured to the other end by the folded seat.





Plenty eye bolt all over to secure equipment when I work.

 

That's a neat setup.

I rode most of last summer with the back seats out for camping. I'm 6'2" and I fit with the back seats out, but only just. I did have plans to build storage but haven't gotten around to it yet. At this point ill probably wait a while until I get some of my other modifications done that would mess with the bunk design.

 

I have at times temporarily removed my back seats and slept in the back. I am 6' and barely fit with the front seats moved all the way forward. I had to move my stuff from inside to the roof rack to make room and it was a bit of a pain. I would like to build something similar so that I have secure storage and and place to sleep without having to move so much stuff around. I need to be able to drive to a location where I will photograph at sunrise and sleep there. Right now I have a child seat for my grandson in the back seat most of the time. When he has outgrown the carseat, I will do something.

 

Nice setup LR03NJ... It looks almost like a sled with the rounded front on the frame... I assume it's bolted to the floor? Any side attachments? And it looks like you can still get into the side cubbies at the back, is that right? I was wondering about just taking those out with this kind of setup.

 

Thanks guys.
Robh, Its not bolted on the floor. I just used turnbuckles and cut one of the eye bolt as another hook and use the D-Rings on the floor. Even without them they are very secured. There are no space on the side. It fits exactly beside the plastic compartments. Yes, the side cubbies can be accessed. There is no problem taking it out, its fully assembled once I installed the deck behind.
Colorado David, The total deck long part is 5'4". That is from the front head rest all the way to the speaker board. You still probably have another 3 inches to the rear glass. You just have to move the seat 4 inches forward and use a big pillow so you can fit. LOL! barely. I guess it will work with your height.
Alex_M, If not too busy next week I'll measure dimensions in case you decide to add a deck. Actually, It can store more stuff in the back for easy access to luggage underneath.

 

I have replaced the rear door speaker board and pocket with a stainless steel panel I bought from Columbia Rovers. I built a folding table that is permanently attached to that panel. I had the the third row seats and have removed them. The anchor point that was used for the third row seats will serve as the anchor point for whatever I eventually build for storage and sleeping platform.