Flatbed Information Thread

I don’t think you’re likely to get a mileage improvement out of a flatbed on a Tacoma. The stock bed is very lightweight and pretty aerodynamic.

It was hard to get a real honest apples-to-apples comparison on my build, due to the timing and other equipment installed on my rig, but I would guess that the bed itself accounted for a 1-2 gpm loss in fuel efficiency. I installed a very lightweight Aluma flatbed.

I would only do another flatbed install if I really needed the extra space.

 

I just ordered my Ute Ltd bed! I think I was asking too much for my trucks box after seeing this comment. But hoping to sell it soon, as I don't want to sit on it long.. This thread has had a lot of great info! So thanks to all that have contributed!

 

Just space, ruggedness, and overall availability for me. Was easier then finding a new stock bed.

 

Trying to figure where I seen the extended fuel lines, don't seem to find it in this thread?

What size u-bolt did you use for the filler neck to mount it like that? Thanks!

 

I’ve got pictures in my build thread. I used the original line and just twisted everything a bit. It works good enough that I don’t think I’ll ever get round to changing it. When I fill at some pumps I have to hold the nozzle sideways to stop it automatically shutting off immediately.

 

@Ralf

you can also use the 4runner filler neck. Don’t have personal experience. But an option

 

Yea I'm going to extend it, hoses are cheap, and have it mounted between the cab and the deck so it's a better angle I should have it on with-in the next 2 weeks once it arrives.

 

I also have to hold the fuel nozzle tight to the filling pipe while filling but that may be due to the LRA 33 gallon fuel that I have.

 

This may be an option for you?



Finished my Ute Ltd. tray the other week.

 

That is a great rig!

 

Mine is finally making it into prototype mode. Filing patent paperwork is no fun. I had no idea this truck would lead to such a rabbit hole.

 

Any build pictures so far??

 

My fill pipe is pretty much locked in.

 

This mornings campsite has 4G!

7,000' in SW Colorado

 

None that I am willing to share yet, sorry. It’s been a labor of love and I’d sure hate to let the hat out of the rabbit too soon.

I can tell you it’s designed to be modular and shipped on a pallet. Over 1500 hours in solidworks so far. One prototype is on its way.

 

I'm looking into an alum flat bed, are UTE and norwel the only options here? Eventually I'd like to add a canopy but $$$....so far I have reached out to Mainland and they don't have or stock any short bed 3rd gen style, If I ordered it would be in in 6 months 9.5K + $2K for the install!!!! Hoping this is catching up and we have more options.....better prices..!?

17' OR TRD Double cab Short Bed.

 

My UTE Ltd with canopy was around 6-7k cnd in 2018. Not the cheapest, but the cap was $3k cnd alone which is on target for a regular aluminum truck cap that has a rack. It was significantly cheaper then the norwelds and ones offered through mainland BUT it also has nothing for us a off-roaders. It’s a contractor setup....

I know @Ralf has got a lot of great ideas/plans based on what he has been sharing with me through pm. Never know, I member on here may be able to help.

good luck.

 

Well I’m definitely curious to see what you’ve come up with! Looking forward, so definitely keep us posted!!

 

I’ve been patiently waiting for my production of the prototype. The prototype is being made in steel, while the production models will be available in both aluminum and steel.

 

Any time line or ETA when we will be seeing the first ones? Sounds exciting!!