looks like an awesome set up

 

Thanks! After upgrading the mattress the RTT is arguably the most comfortable bed we own. Between that and promising a campsite with a view, it's pretty easy to talk my wife into camping.

 

Still need to get the mattress pad in, but the platform is in.

 

Electric Coffee maker? Camping?

 

I wanted to do a platform for a long time, and designed a few things. Then I balked and went a different direction. I went with low profile bins in the back, 3 of them (recovery, parts, tools). My cubby bag is used for personal care (sunscreens, bug sprays, etc). I use black cargo blankets over the bins to create a false flat surface, so that from the outside of the vehicle there is no indication that I have that gear on board (about $2k worth). The bins are nice because I can remove them easily, or adjust them during the winter when I sleep in the XJ for camping.

But the platform bug is scratching at me once again. However, there are a few things I see on the forums I want to avoid. First, is the use of full size lumber (2x4,2x6,etc). I've done the math and it is crazy how much space that lumber eats up as part of the design. Many cubic feet. Not to mention the additional weight it brings. So I am still scheming and planning. Also I must retain the use of the back seat, due to kids. So I have to design something where a top layer slides forward over the folded-down rear seat when I am camping. Haven't quite nailed that idea yet. Also, when you want to go with much thinner/smaller/stronger finished hardwoods to reduce weight and space used up by the lumber, the cost skyrockets. One small finished piece of hardwood can be $20, where that would buy something like 6 2x3s.

 

I've been thinking about this too. 1/2" plywood ! Use a piano hinge, to fold back the section that would be over the seat when layed down. Cut it the same angle as that of the back seat when up. When it's folded, it would be one straight line, at the same angle as the back seat when it's up. When you fold it out, both angles would come together, they would be inverted when folded. The end at the hatch, removable totes, the next section up, supported by a an interlocking grid section underneath, could have cubbies for storage, with lift of lids and finger holes. The lids either cut through the top or placed on small ledgers made from the plywood. Line the interior of the compartments with indoor/outdoor carpet to silence rattles and increase NVH resistance !!! I've used 1/2" plywood, to build 220 gallon saltwater reef aquariums tank stands!!! Water, is about 8lbs per gallon !!! If done properly, much more strength ! For me, I could get by with 3/8" ... built properly and with good design, you could probably even use the folding section as a sub box, place for inverter and on board air !!! When folded, it shouldn't come any higher than the back of the rear seat. In the up position, you'd have options ! Either place the subs aiming up, in that case, they'ed be aiming down when flat, provided there was a rest to support that section so the speakers wouldn't get damaged. In this configuration, you would have more room to install an inverter and on-board air, facing the back end of the Jeep. But, when folded slide the front seats up all the way and still have access to them from just behind the front seats ! This way, you'd be spitting the storage volumn even between the top edge of the back seat and the cargo floor. You would in essence truly be doubling the rear area. I just hope you're not 6'3" !!! I'm only 5'9" !!! This is going to be one of my last projects ! Hope my brainfart, gives you some insight and ideas ! This is very doable ! I was even considering making it modular for no tool removal and knock-down storage !

 

An option for taking up less space. This is how the front of my platform is supported.

 

That's cool ! Lotta good storage under there ! Coleman Camp Stove Spot !

 

The Coleman fits nicely in the rear storage slot with room to spare for a kitchen bin on the same side. Plan now is to remove the rear seat back and drop my tool bag and heavier items in the under seat area and keep kitchen and non perishables items out back.