Compromised Box Integrity??

So I have a project in mind...

I want to remove the spare tire from the stock location and use that space for hidden storage. I want to cut a fairly large hole in the composite bed floor, and have it hinged for access below. I was taking a look underneath and it appears I'll have all the room I need, but I have one question.

If my hole is within all the bed mounts, and is say 20"x20", would I need to worry about structural integrity?

I would be welding a frame to brace the lid and compartment, and then covering it all with the stock Tacoma bed mat. I also have a fabric rollup tonneau.

 

It's been done before: https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2013-toyota-tacoma-5/

 

Yeah that was first instinct, but I figured I'd reach out and have someone find my errors haha.

It's looks like this has been done before too so I have all the confidence I need!!!

 

The drug dogs will still catch you!

 

If you do don’t forget to rebrace the frame since you’ll be removing a crossmember or two.

 

Link for the lazy people (I wanted to look at it again too )

https://jdfabrication.com/collections/gen-3-tacoma-16-6-lug/products/tacoma-rear-gastank-kit

 

Its funny you mention this. I just had a bit of a scare with some drug dogs and I got away with it!!!

 

Haha! That’s where my mind went too!

 

Haha totally. I actually wanted my hidden storage to contain my big metal Jerry can.

 

You're asking me about a decision on a $150k truck built 3 years ago? I'm guessing just keeping the weight of individual cans manageable, so they're easier to pour?

That whole truck is a rabbit hole. I had to stop scrolling through the pictures after noticing the roll cage tubes are leather-wrapped and hand stitched...

 

Based on the title, I thought this thread was about my ex-wife.