Drawers for Troopie @ ExplorOz

Drawers for Troopie

Submitted: Monday, Jun 16, 2008 at 15:21

I was recently considering updating my old storage and bed set-up in my 92 L/cruiser PC, I had made it out of chipboard when I first acquired the vehicle 13 years ago, although it had served its purpose, the under bed storage was a pain in the butt.
I was planning a similar set-up to what I had, but to include drawers.
When I was riding my bike one day I chanced upon an old steel gate made from 20x20mm tubular steel that had been thrown in a skip.
This was the beginning of my project, I got permission to pick up the gate.
I made a frame from the steel, I also had to purchase another 4.9m length.
After I had made the frame I boxed it on the inside with some old house

Frame

door skins.
I obtained a sheet of 6mm plywood from Cullity's, cover sheet only from a friend for the external panels and top.
I purchased 50 roller bearings for $1.50 ea.
And to finish off I had the 2 drawers made of aluminium, the most expensive part. 1350x400x250 = $400
The frame has 3 sections in the front: One for 3rd Battery and solenoid to isolate it, a small boxed section where I mounted my inverter and 2 plug outlet, which I can reach between the seats and the third one behind drivers seat is where I store my winch control and tools for easy access. It also has two storage sections on each side, all lids have been hinged with piano hinge, which you can buy for about $5 a metre.
I also ran a 4 outlet plug to rear.
I had just replaced some carpet at home, so I used the old carpet to cover the lot.
I still have to put handles on the drawers, but have put straps on for time being, I may even stick with the straps, at least they don't stick out.
I then made a rectangle frame to carry my fridge, and mounted the remaining 6 roller bearings on it, so that I can move my fridge from side to side to access the drawers.
I keep them closed with a couple of sliding bolts.
I am very happy with the end result. Total cost around $500.00