Rear trunk build

mikracer · 11-20-2013, 05:40 PM

I saw this thread (viewtopic.php?f=6&t=7470) and really liked how functional the box/rack was. I want to build something similar but use the stowaway2 swinging hitch (http://www.stowaway2.com/class-2-hitch-carrier.aspx) and perhaps a toolbox for truck beds.

I'm wondering if there is any drawback to using the swing away frame and the toolbox compared to what the OP used in the other thread. The website for the swing away hitch says it can handle 200 lbs and it looks like aluminum tool chests are about 50lbs (http://www.amazon.com/Delta-PAH1420000- ... tool+chest)

The box would hold things like portable grill, stove, chairs, levelers, etc, and then possibly bikes up top. Any thoughts or ideas / pros and cons with this type of setup?

Chance · 02-01-2014, 08:29 PM

One possible issue when using with 61-inch-long tool box is that when the van is not parked level, it may try to get away from you due to gravity. Or it may be hard to swing uphill, much like a very heavy car door when vehicle is not parked level.

Also make sure the hitch-to-pivot dimension is long enough to swing with a long box mounted on top.

Another issue you may want to consider is that a light 50-pound aluminum box isn't all that strong or stiff. They are made to rest on flat truck bed so most of load transfers directly down through bottom of box to truck bed. In an installation as you describe, some form of reinforcement may be required; which may add significant weight.

I would suggest adding up all the weight carefully because 200 pounds may not go as far as you think. A couple of mountain bikes are not light, and the weight of the bike carriers has to be included.

Lastly, does the 200-pound rating include the weight of the swing-away frame itself? I don't know and would not assume it is excluded. From the looks of the swing pivot it doesn't look all that heavy-duty to me. Certainly not as heavy as many swing-away tire carriers.

And if going off-road with van, load capacity may need to be de-rated. Or maybe not -- depends on what is weakest link in their load rating and how it was derived. I'd ask just to make sure.

mikracer · 02-05-2014, 01:00 PM

Thanks for your input. I've since decided to abandon this idea and possibly go with roof racks and a rooftop box. I still need to install a rear hitch, but that will be used for a bike rack.

Chance · 02-05-2014, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikracer

Thanks for your input. I've since decided to abandon this idea and possibly go with roof racks and a rooftop box. I still need to install a rear hitch, but that will be used for a bike rack.

I've been considering a similar project for a while, but it's been on the back burner until I make a decision on whether to buy a new RV or keep my van a couple of more years. I've already finished the design on two options; one swing out like your plan and one to move box straight back. In both the box opens at back, not top. That way bikes can't collide with van body. Seems a little simpler to me plus I can attach a heavier tandem and still move box with ease.