'14 Silverado 1500 - Working Dog / Cross Country Cruiser Build

[gunrunner99]

She is a 50lb English bulldog. Thanks for putting the info up. I saw the tray for the extra battery so it was begging me to use it. I have tried the remote start start but can never seem to get it to work. I bought the truck used from a ford dealer so they had no idea.

 

[fiddypal]

She is a 50lb English bulldog. Thanks for putting the info up. I saw the tray for the extra battery so it was begging me to use it. I have tried the remote start start but can never seem to get it to work. I bought the truck used from a ford dealer so they had no idea.

Neither did mine I had to look it up. Press the lock button until truck locks, then hold the remote start button a few seconds and it should fire up.

You should have plenty of room behind driver seat for a 2x3 kennel, I think that will suit your needs perfectly.

 

[fiddypal]

Did a few long trips in the truck and fridge / battery held up just fine. Will be starting the build out of the bed soon can't wait!

 

[fiddypal]

After a long delay, I finally started my bed build! Rough frame is there, just need to sand , paint, and put on some finishing touches. I designed this with headroom in mind, as I am 6' and my cap is only cab height. I considered a raised cap but in the end settled on the cab height one.

The side boxes are just 2x4's and 1/2 inch sanded plywood with some notches cut to fit flush against the bed wall and so the clamps could reattach properly. These things are rock solid against the wall I tugged on them pretty good and they are strong! For the bed, I just cut a 2x4 down the center and screwed rails at the same height as the wheel wells (7") which just happen to be tall enough for the storage bins I keep underneath. I can fit 3 of these storage bins and still have a little extra room in the front for stuff.

For bedding I have 2 teton sports camping pads which fit perfectly between the wheel wells (48" give or take) and a 4" gel memory foam mattress topper I can throw over the cot pads for super comfort.

Still have tons more to do like build an awning, wiring up chargers and lights, etc.

 

[fiddypal]

Forgot to mention, entire build was only 80bucks for the wood and screws! Had two 2x4 left over and a few decent pieces of plywood.

 

[ExplorerTom]

I've found those clear plastic bins can be brittle. I've broken several. The storage bins that you can't see through tend to hold up better.

 

[fiddypal]

Thanks for the advice, i was simply trying to use what i already had around the house. I questioned the durability over these in the long haul as well, good to know!

 

[fiddypal]

Here is the other little project I am working on. Trying to figure out a quick little canopy setup using pvc or something else on hand. I have some tarp clips and rope just need to get a tarp and make up some odds and ends.

Right now I use a 3 way pvc joint which fits right over the end of my roof rack rails. Then I tie some Para cord between the 2 posts so they don't fall off the roof racks.

 

[Bg86]

Nice man what are you going to use as a covering for it?

 

[fiddypal]

Nice man what are you going to use as a covering for it?

I will probably just use a tarp, need to shop around for standard sizes next. I am also considering making some extensions off the sides to have a bigger covered area. That setup in the picture will be nice when i want to setup a quick camp and need shade or privacy. Then if i am at a more permanent location i can setup a couple extension off the sides and have a bigger covered area to hang out and setup shop in.

I also have a pack of Tarp Clips: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Homax-CinchTite-Multi-Purpose-Tarp-Clip-4-Pack-2615/203495590

I plan to use these to tie the ends down or for other temporary shelter building.

 

[Bg86]

Nice man I was thinking of something similar since I use my truck alot offroad.

 

[fiddypal]

Appreciate the interest thanks! I've copied tons of ideas off here its a great place, hopefully I can help contribute with some new ideas.

Just got done carpeting the back, left the rails the plywood bed slides on bare so it would slide easier. Still need to cover the ends just for looks, then finish cutting my lids for the storage along the sides of the bed wall.

 

[fiddypal]

Lids finished and installed for the side rails. Now i need to start filing this with essential items that will never leave!

- Tool Kit
- Oil & Filter, Trans Fluid
- Better Jack
- Fishing Poles and small tackle box

Any other things you would suggest i pack?


Future things i want to add:

- Water storage solution
- Solar
- more batteries!

 

[chilliwak]

The rear canopy looks good Fiddy. Now she is ready for some back country adventures. Cheers, chilli..