How much flex between cab and box?

[Uncle Gump]

So I'm working on my 2 into one roof basket project. I really want to cantilever the roof basket over the cab slightly... with the rack mounting points only on the bed cap. I actually want to make the basket 7 foot long and only have a 6 foot long cap.

So the question is... how much of a stand off from the top of the cap do I need so that the basket won't hit the roof of the cab?

I really want to keep it as low as possible... I think if it has to be more then 2 inches... I'm going to have to rethink what I want to do.

 

[dvdswan]

2" would be fine I think, but its all going to depend on the how much flex you think the truck/bed are going to do. Remember, the width of the basket will amplify how much flex there is going to be.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Good point... the basket is 36 inches wide. So roughly 6 inches narrower per side. There is also some curvature to the roof line... dropping away from center.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I think 2" was the recommended minimum I found for the overhang for a slide in camper.

 

[dvdswan]

Are you planning on being on uneven surfaces? Dirt lot, 1/2 on a curb, or straddling a ditch?

 

[Uncle Gump]

I think 2" was the recommended minimum I found for the overhang for a slide in camper.

I was going to ask you about that. I know I toted that Skamper all over and never touched. I remember putting 1x3 or something under it though. But it was pretty close even with the lumber underneath.

Are you planning on being on uneven surfaces? Dirt lot, 1/2 on a curb, or straddling a ditch?

Yes... all that... and probably worse.

 

[dvdswan]

You might want to think about adding a support bar for the arm near the basket then, too help bouncing as well.

 

[Uncle Gump]

The heaviest thing that will be on the front (overhang) of the basket will be my guide canoe... or an 8 ft. step ladder. I don't plan on packing the front of it. Well maybe a dead deer... but I certainly don't plan on testing the limits of the the thing.

I was planning three load bars... front middle back.

I do plan on two side and one rear work light mounted to the rack.

I may also add an awning... it weighs 25 lbs. if I win the lottery.

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[85_Ranger4x4]

Gotta do limb risers too...

 

[Uncle Gump]

I really want trail sights too...

Been thinking of how I could make those happen...

 

[Uncle Gump]

Without spending 50K on a Bronco... lol

 

[Curious Hound]

I really want trail sights too...

Been thinking of how I could make those happen...

Trail sights??? Where I go, those are already along the trail. All I have to do is open my eyes and see them.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Trail sights??? Where I go, those are already along the trail. All I have to do is open my eyes and see them.

I figured that was what the bulldog was for...

 

[Uncle Gump]

Trail sights??? Where I go, those are already along the trail. All I have to do is open my eyes and see them.

It may be a Bronco thing... not everyone understands.

Ever since I seen them... I just wanted them.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

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