Jeep security trunk DIY

WilliamA

I love having the top on my Jeep down (or off) but security is a concern with all of my camping stuff just laying behind the back seat. There are a few options on the market for security, but the cheapest (and smallest) starts at over $400 bucks. Since I'm stuck at home, I thought I would tackle the problem. Starting from the simplest bolt-down cover, I made patterns from 1/4" plywood. The one I ended up liking the best turned out to also be the most complex. There's a company that makes one quite similar to it, but again, they start at $750 dollars for the basic model. For around $250 bucks, I turned out this one:

It's still at the "work on progress" stage but the hard work of design, patterning and fabrication is done. It's in and functioning quite well. I still need to completely disassemble it for paint and detailing but that will happen as I get a hole (HAH!) in the home maintenance schedule.
The parts you can see are all cut from 16 gauge aluminum sheet. The subframe is welded up from 3/4" X 3/4" 16 gauge square steel tubing. The lid is a 2 fold affair and is captured when the tailgate is closed so entry isn't possible.

So far, so good...
WilliamA

Frogger

Looks good dude, should discourage the grab & go crowd!

HikinMike

That is a very good looking piece of work. Great Job! I Like the bare aluminum look. What kind of top do you have on your Jeep WilliamA ?

GigHarborTom

Dang that is nice. We had a couple jeeps a years ago. I miss those rigs. I spent the big bucks for security between the seat and other.

WilliamA

I'm running the O.E. Bestop softtop in Black Diamond.

Doing some fine tuning.

Top down.

The prop rod to hold the front bi-fold up.

I removed the tie downs from the floor and moved them up top.

WilliamA

WilliamA

I finished the front security panel today and cut in a small secure hatch. Now I'll be able to put my camera and things in and out without having to open the back.

WilliamA