SMKYTXN's Build

Any ideas on how to integrate a tailgate into the back?

 

This is one idea for a tailgate, but what do you do with it when you have a load hanging out the back? Strap it down somewhere?

 

I've got it figured out. I'm going to use a trailer style hinge pin for the bottom and a Destaco latch clamp to hold the top.

The trailer pins will allow me to take the tailgate off easily.

 

I plan to build mine with heavy duty hinges and latches so that it will function like a normal tailgate.

Edit: hah, forgot to hit post on my phone until now. those are the exact two items i was talking about. then all you need chain, cable, or some other limiting device to keep it from dropping past the angle you want.

 

I'm thinking I'll have two tailgates. One that is the height of the bed rail and a second that is just a square tube. The square tube gate will have my wheel and fork mounts on it. That way I don't have to have those mounts permanently installed on the bed.

 

they cost a little more, they also make hinges that style with have a brass washer/bushing on them. keeps the squeaking at bay on bumpy surfaces (aka houston roads)

 

Well, I have my work cut out for me in terms of coping some weird angles, but I really like how this thing is shaping up. Now I need to figure out where the CO2 tank, fire extinguisher, and extra battery will live. I would like them to be under the wings if at all possible.

 

The new mid skid holds my funnel perfectly for fluid changes.

 

Picked up the start of the materials today.

10' - 5"x2"x1/4" tube
(2) - 24"x8" pieces of 3/4" plate from the scrap yard
2' - 2.5"x.180 wall for the receiver tube

Now to draw up the rear bumper.

 

Better put Colin to work soon before he leaves your ass!

 

He's not getting out of Texas without putting some more effort into this build.

If I convince the guys at TX/RX to start letting me play with the toys I'll need some help this weekend.

Here's what the rear bumper will look like. It's pretty simple, but it's gonna be stout. I haven't decided what I'm going to do about the receiver tube yet. I'll either tie it back in too the rectangular tube, or tie it to the frame.

 

I did run the numbers on the rectangular tube. I can do a 12,000lb straight line pull before I overstress the tube. That's not taking it to yield, just taking it to the allowable stress. I think that's good enough.

 

Sweet. Just hit me up if you need a hand. I live about 10-15 minutes from the lab.

 

This is really happening eh?

 

Gonna have to hurry. I think i only have 2 free weekends left in houston. plan is to start driving to MD on August 28th.

 

One way or another this is going to happen.

 

Well, I'm not going to rush this project, but there should be something for you to help me with at least one of those weekends.

 

The more the merrier Kase. I'll find out tonight about bringing folks into the shop to help out with the build. I'm paying for the space so I'm not sure how it all works yet.

 

Got the harbor freight tubing roller put together and welded on the SWAG roller extensions today.