Custom Overland Bed Rack

While shopping around for bed racks, I found it quite difficult to find one that A. fit my needs & B. was in my budget. I simply couldn't justify spending as much as I did on my RTT, on a rack. My father and I decided to take this project head on.
*Disclaimer: I am not a professional (as you may tell). I am just a guy learning how to use a mig welder.*
Materials used in this project:
1 1/2 steel tubing
3x3 angle
1x~ strip
1/8 steel sheet

First step was to make mounting brackets and sliders that utilize the factory bed rails. A hole was drilled thru the metal strip and a nut was welded in.

After that the first two bends were made. Two identical pieces that run side to side. They were then tac'd while on the truck to ensure the positioning was perfect.

Once I had the cross pieces in place, it was time to connect them. I started with 4 lengths, two on the top, and one on each side.

I added two more lengths of tube connecting the top pieces. These are the main supports for the Roof Top Tent.

The sides seemed naked, and I wanted a flat surface to attach gear to. Another tube was added to the side, and then a strip of 1/8 sheet about 4.5 inches wide was welded on. We cut functional holes into the sheet to give mounting options.

Final step was to add everything to the rack!

Roof Top Tent

Recovery boards

Axe mount using Quick Fist Clamps


Next week the rack will go in for powder coating and then I'll move onto making some rock sliders for the truck. Please let me know what you think of the rack! I'm super happy with how it turned out, but would love some pointers on what I can improve! That being said, I'm located in Ontario, Canada. If a bed rack like this spikes your interest, I'd be more than happy to make arrangements to get one of these onto your truck.

 

I love it! I commend you for jumping on a project most are just saving up funds to buy.

 

Looks good dude! Came out well

 

Excellent work bro. Might want you to build one for me

 

Amazing work man!!!

 

Thanks everyone!

 

Very Nice Design that could be used with a Roll-Up Tonneau Cover. Great Work!

 

yeah i think it would work! going to try and sell my BAKflip cover and get one of those. I already miss have a cover.

 

I have the Access Literider Tonneau and would recommend it. Autoanything is having a 21% off sale this weekend only - Might be worth a look.

 

Nice work. Came out great.

 

Sweet build, I'm looking to do something similar. You're bold for not covering your truck with a weld blanket

 

That came out good man! It looks professional-grade