ETAV8R's build: Gini and some wanderings

Camp is the vortex

 

A quick report on my new set up. My built drawer/sleeping platform works. I used skateboard rails for drawer slide and there are some hiccups in use. For the most part they work and are cheaper than any slide system I found so far. The shell, while far different than the FWC, works. Not sure how to fine tune it for two people. I just need a few trips to get it dialed in.

 

For sleeping it wont be an issue. There is one toolbox on the drivers side which will be partially over the legs of the other sleeper. Toynado and Tacomarin both sleep two in their Tradesman shells. Toynado's platform is higher and thus closer to the toolbox.

 

Only if they put windows on the sides. And after nursing school is done. I do like the wedge designs but would want to see the different makes. Since I'll be busy for a couple years most of the gremlins and evolution of the various makes will be worked out.

 

Those are really neat, just checked them out.

 

Time for you to upgrade.

 

Side windows on the shell itself. Not the tent.

 

I've been following their thread. I don't see myself having an RTT and my shell would lose structural integrity if I cut open the top. I'd get the type that I can stand up in from the truck bed. I just got this topper and it will be a few years before another change is made.

 

Finished up my modular drawer and sleeping platform. Feels stout. I discovered Ganahl Lumber during the build. They are great if you don't have the ability to do cuts to large portions/sizes of wood. I had a parts list and did the optimization to decrease loss during the cutting process. They did all but two cuts and that's only because I had to have that part in place to make the measurements.

The drawer section is primarily where I'll be sleeping. There is a small shelf piece which runs along bedside and it is easily removable. Various things are stored under the shelf. One item which fits perfectly and provides support are the Camco leveling blocks.

The driver's side is one piece which is supported by the wheel well and two glued 1x1 pieces. I'll probably put a third 1x1 piece towards the tailgate end. Under this section is my hi-lift, compressor, recovery bag, and other miscellaneous items.

So far I'm pleased with the end result. Gotta give thanks to HBMurphy for loaning me some tools to get this project done. One of the best things about this forum is the friendships I've made here.

 

Love the evolution of your tacoma. I just picked up a aluminum cap of CL and am trying to figure out what would be the best interior setup.

You look like you have enough room to sit up while sitting on top of your drawer.

 

Glad you like it. Yes I can sit up inside when necessary. Nice to have the extra headroom compared to a cab height shell.

 

Looks great! How high is the cap from the bed rails?

 

Mine is the 26" version. Search for tradesman shell here on TW and you'll see several other owners builds.

 

I've been in that thread already and would love a Tradesman cap but they are very expensive so I am looking into other options (ARE DCU) that I can order locally.

 

From back in 2015...

 

Is that Mono?

 

Indeed it is.

 

Love that place! Spent a Thanksgiving out there a couple years ago. That is a magical place in the winter.

 

I've been watching the temps. It hasn't gone much above freezing for the past couple weeks. Can only imagine how cold it is up on the mountains surrounding the lake.

 

In between semesters and one goal was to complete the installation of the 6 gang switch plate and hook up my four nilights and interior LEDs.

For the installation I used a plastic cutting board from wallmarx that was less than $2. Next I made a cardboard template. Measure and measure again. After some trial fittings and trimming it was time to paint the cutting board and get everything hooked up. I'm no electrician but for now it works. I will need to re-address the ground for the starboard side lightin in the future.

From the inside of the cab I have a master switch for all the power to the switch plate. Inside the truck shell I can turn on the rear lights and individually both left and right side lights.