P1000 Boondocking /camping roof top

[rudyeng]

Okay guys working on a rooftop DIY roof top camping solution. Already got the lights, solar panels, batt etc. You cant even notice them.

My roof is 3/16" aluminum so I'm simply going to extend it via the two stub-outs. All I need now is a 3/16 aluminum plate 24x36 and it's done. everything is removable and you cant even see it on the buggy. (that's the idea anyways)

I will keep you posted. My plan is to store the 24x36 plate in the bed under the rubber bed mat and use it as needed. I may start off with a single man survival tent and escalate with a full aluminum covered roof as I figure it out.

Notice the light mast & arm attached to the cross member. The lights are also stored just below in a void area, not visible. I will remove everything once again sand and repaint as needed.

This is the roof top tent that I'm looking at. Fits perfectly on my roof with the extended section attached. I will use the stub outs to extend as needed.

These are the stub outs that I'm talking about

 

[packer58]

Good idea but.......two things come to mind that can be worked out pretty easily.
Access ladder ??
Holding the tent to the roof ??

 

[rudyeng]

I think I got it figured out but......... I need to unwire and remove my roof to install the Sq.. tube shown below. No ladder required. I would use the Packout as a step in the bed. My goal is to keep the buggy's original look so I may trim it flush. I'm also limited to a 38" wide single man tent but that's okay. The overall length I'm shooting for is 7.5'. Holding the tent down is easy. I would weld in tiedowns as needed. Looking at this tent but that may change (Last pic)

 

[rudyeng]

Update: Dry run. Showing final tent selection & setup. I will need a 35"x36" 3/16 Aluminum section (extension) and a vertical support. I can store the extension under the rubber mat in the bed so that works out great.

The tent is fantastic. Very easy to assemble and semi free standing. I'm 6'-215# so it's a little narrow inside but it works fine. I have about 6"-8" clearance on each side. The length is perfect, plenty of clearance.

 

[packer58]

Looking good, are you planning on hinging your aluminum extension at the edge of the roof and just flip it over when not in use ?

 

[rudyeng]

That's actually a great idea but I want to keep the buggy's original look. It's going to be removable. I'll store it under the rubber mat in the bed.

 

[packer58]

That's actually a great idea but I want to keep the buggy's original look. It's going to be removable. I'll store it under the rubber mat in the bed.

Gotcha, when you get some time i'd like some pics of your gun boot attachment/bracket. I really want to do something similar with two boots, one pointing left and the other to the right and keeping it tight up against the back of the cab.
Thanks

 

[rudyeng]

I used 2" SQ aluminum tube and 3/8"x2" plate to build a vertical post. Bolted that to the bed crossmembers. Then welded in a 1"x4" rectangular aluminum section. Bolted the gun boot base to that. The gun boot is removable. I did go about 6" higher than needed because I wanted in integrate the recovery track holder in the design. Used self etching primer and truck bed liner spray from HD.

 

[packer58]

Thank you, dang... i wish i had the equipment to weld aluminum, my projects would be a lot lighter.