by chh » May 4, 2007 8:30 am
Ok, I'm rehashing this topic because I'd like some advice, and I've got some ideas. My current (soon to be former) vehicle is a much loved Dodge Caravan. I've camped in it lots of times and never needed to build anything as even with another person we could always get everything stacked into the front seats or under a tarp outside. The benefits for napping in teams while driving and such were outstanding. But alas, it's time for a new vehicle.
I bought a 91 Toyota pickup, and even though its older than my van, it's got a lot less miles, and it's in good shape. I have two problems. First, I called the local century cap dealer here (haven't called the toyota dealer yet) and he said they didn't have any tall caps that fit that model. I REALLY want a tall cap. But I think that the cost and availability may be prohibitive. I also REALLY want long, screened in windows in the cap, and fiberglass, but by that time the cap starts to be just about as expensive as the truck itself - and I don't have that kind of cash.
Is there anyone out there who has a high cap for their older Toyota pickup? And who makes it and where did you get it? Cost? etc. My budget is really around 5-900 dollars.
As far as the platform goes how about this for not "castrating" the hauling abilities of your truck? Cut and cover 3 (or whatever number) thick plywood sheets so that they fit the long way across your bed and rest on the shell. Now to be able to remove and install them easily you are going to want to have a little "wiggle" room on each side right. How about using 1 inch square wood strips that fit the length of your bed in between the sleeping platform and the shell. They just take up the space there and make the thing solid when driving around, acting like locker bars. Best part is, it's totally and easily removable, CHEAP, and you could do it in an hour including covering the plywood with indoor/outdoor carpet.
Your words of caution are no match for my disaster style!